Dehorning and disbudding of cattle causes significant pain that is frequently inadequately managed in commercial farming.
Dehorning and disbudding causes acute pain that persists for hours to days. Inadequate pain management during and after the procedure leaves cattle in avoidable discomfort. Hot iron disbudding without local anaesthetic causes acute agony. Post-procedural NSAIDs significantly reduce pain duration and intensity. Breeding for naturally polled cattle eliminates the welfare cost entirely and represents the most sustainable long-term solution. Mandatory veterinary oversight and pain relief requirements for all dehorning procedures should be standard across the industry.