Dehorning of cattle causes acute and persistent pain and is performed on tens of millions of animals annually. Genetic selection for polled (hornless) cattle offers a permanent solution without ongoing welfare compromise.
Dehorning is performed because horns cause injury to other cattle and handlers in confined systems. The welfare problem is real but the solution — genetic selection for polled animals — is advancing rapidly. Widespread adoption of polled genetics would eliminate the need for dehorning entirely, removing a significant source of pain affecting tens of millions of animals each year. In the interim, pain relief during dehorning — local anesthetic plus non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs — substantially reduces but does not eliminate the welfare harm. Regulatory requirements for pain relief during dehorning and active support for polled breeding programs represent the most effective current and long-term welfare interventions.