When should a cow be scanned?

Answer 1

This will depend upon what you mean by "scanned".

• If you are referring to a visual examination, cows should be observed daily if possible for signs of infection, trauma or ill health. This is not always practical, particularly with a cow/calf herd that is out on pasture.
• If you are referring to reading the radio frequency identification (RFID) ear tag, the ID should be verified every time the animal is handled or at least twice a year to ensure the RFID is present and transmitting the correct information. The animal should also be scanned upon arrival or departure at a location.
• If you are referring to a medical imaging scan, such as an MRI or CT, cows should not be routinely scanned. This is a complex medical procedure that involves general anesthesia, and in many cases cows are too large to adequately image anyway.