Choosing a Cattle Chute

A cattle chute, known in Commonwealth nations as a “cattle race,” is a metal corridor designed to assist in the herding of cattle and other animals between one location and another. Cattle chutes may be used to hold cattle while they’re being examined or treated by a veterinarian, or to transport them onto vehicles or between grazing areas and pens. Packing plants may also use a cattle chute to move animals into a slaughter facility.

So what should you look for when your ranch needs a cattle chute? This quick guide will help you figure out what factors to prioritize during the purchasing process.

Portable vs. Permanent

One important thing to consider when buying a cattle chute is whether you wish to permanently install it on your property or use it in a more mobile and portable fashion. You’ll need to determine where you’re going to locate the chute and how large a chute can fit in the area for a permanent chute. For a portable chute, a lighter weight and superior mobility become more important concerns.

Manual vs. Hydraulic

Cattle chutes may either be manual, which means you have to operate every part by hand, or they may have hydraulics that automatically perform the necessary actions. While manual chutes are quieter and cheaper, you should definitely consider whether they’re the most practical choice for your cattle operation, since they’re much more labor-intensive and time-consuming to use. A hydraulic cattle chute is often a better option for large operations and industrial applications.

Headgate

The headdoors or headgate on your cattle chute need to be carefully considered to promote both the safety of the operator and the animals. A headdoor that has full opening action can maintain even pressure on the animal and reduce both stress and injury risk. A lower pressure setting and cushioned belting with the complete opening action help to calm your cattle and allow them to leave the chute easily.

Neck Bars

The neck bars on the chute where your animal’s neck will be held in place should be curved, because straight bars can let the animal’s head move too freely. The neck bars also need to be adjustable, and it should be easy to put a neck restraint on the headgate.

Squeeze Mechanism

The squeeze mechanism on your cattle chute needs to be both easy to use and easy to access, with simple opening and closing mechanics. Pressure should be able to be applied and removed quickly. An adjustable lower squeeze is also recommended.

Palpation Gates

Another feature that you may want to consider is the addition of palpation gates, which allow you to access the rear and the sides of your animal so that you can check for pregnancy, perform castrations and artificial inseminations, and examine their full bodies.

Stop by our dealership near Alma, KS, to check out our wide stock of cattle chutes for sale. We can even provide you with financing options on your purchase. Wertzberger Ranch Equipment proudly serves our customers in Manhattan and Salina, KS.