Cattle Identification

Cattle Identification Supplies for Herd Management

Reliable cattle identification helps you keep accurate records and manage individual animals throughout your operation. From traditional cattle ear tags to electronic identification (EID) and RFID tags, Valley Vet Supply offers cattle identification supplies designed to support efficient herd management and recordkeeping.

Cattle identification can help track important information such as health, weight, vaccinations, breeding, production records, and more. Choose from visual ear tags, electronic identification tags, tag applicators, and accessories to create an identification system that works for your herd.

Cattle Ear Tags and Electronic Identification

Visual Cattle Ear Tags: Traditional livestock ear tags make it easy to identify cattle at a glance. Available in a variety of sizes and colors, tags can be selected based on the age and size of your cattle. Many cattle ear tags can also be customized with identification numbers, ranch names, or other information.

EID and RFID Tags: Electronic identification (EID) tags use radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to provide an animal with a unique electronic identification number. When paired with compatible readers and herd management systems, RFID cattle tags can help streamline weighing, sorting, recordkeeping, and animal traceability.

Tag Applicators and Accessories: Proper application can help keep cattle ear tags secure. Choose an applicator designed for your specific tag brand and style, along with replacement pins and other accessories needed for tagging.

Choosing the Right Cattle Identification

The best identification method depends on your operation and recordkeeping needs. Smaller tags may be better suited for calves, while larger visual tags can make mature cattle easier to identify from a distance. Electronic identification can also be paired with visual ear tags to provide both quick visual recognition and digital recordkeeping.

When applying cattle ear tags, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper placement and use the appropriate applicator for the tags.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between EID and RFID cattle tags?

EID refers to electronic identification, while RFID is the radio frequency identification technology commonly used to electronically identify an animal. The terms are often used interchangeably when discussing electronic livestock identification.

Can cattle ear tags be customized?

Many cattle ear tags can be customized with identification numbers, ranch names, or other information. Options vary by tag and manufacturer.

What are 840 RFID tags?

840 RFID tags are official animal identification tags that use the U.S. country code 840 and meet applicable requirements for official identification. Always check current state and federal requirements for your cattle and their movement.

 

Livestock Tattoo

At Valley Vet, we know the importance of keeping a secure record of your herd. That's why we offer a wide range of livestock identification products, including:

• Tattoo Pliers: The main tool used to hold and apply the tattoo digits.
• Tattoo Ink: High-quality paste or liquid ink designed to create a permanent, visible mark.
• Letter & Number Sets: Individual letters and numbers that fit into the pliers to form the unique ID.
• Tag Combos: Kits that include pliers, numbers, and ink all in one package.

How to Tattoo Your Livestock Properly

Here are a few quick steps to follow to ensure the tattoo is applied properly and effectively:

• Preparation: Clean the ear with an alcohol wipe and remove any hair to ensure a clean surface for the ink.
• Placement: Place the tattoo in the center of the ear, avoiding any prominent veins or cartilage to minimize pain and ensure the ink holds.
• Hygiene: Keep your tools clean and sanitized to prevent infection.

Advantages

• It's a permanent tattoo and won't fall off or fade.
• Cannot be easily removed or altered, making it a secure form of ID.
• Discreet and doesn't interfere with the animal's appearance.

Considerations

• A Proper technique is required to ensure the tattoo is clear and legible.
• While temporary, the process can cause some discomfort for the animal.
• Tattoos can be difficult to read from a distance, especially on animals with dark ears.

 

RFID Ear Tags

Electronic identification ear tags (EID), or RFID ear tags, combine the visibility of traditional tags with the precision of digital data. Whether you are improving traceability or streamlining your weigh-ins, cattle RFID tags ensure that every animal's data is accurate and easily accessible. Explore our full selection of livestock identification tags to make your processing days faster and your recordkeeping more reliable.

Benefits of RFID Identification

Switching to electronic ear tags takes the guesswork out of herd management. By assigning each animal a unique, scannable number, you eliminate the errors that come with manual handwriting and data entry. Here's how they streamline your daily operations.

• Data Integrity: Sync weights and health records directly from the scale to you.
• Traceability: Many options are USDA RFID tags, meeting federal requirements for interstate movement and disease traceability.
• Efficiency: Scan animals quickly without having to catch every head in a headgate just to read a number

RFID Tags for Livestock

USDA 840 Tags are official identification tags required for interstate movement and many livestock shows. Both HDX and FDX technologies are available in this official format.

*Recommended options:*

• Best for Metal Chutes: Y-Tex HDX to ensure reads in steel chute.
• Best for Budget: Allflex FDX for standard electronic ID.
• Best for Recordkeeping: Y-Tex Matched Set to sync visual and digital data instantly.

How to Apply RFID Tags Properly

• Location: Always apply the tag in the *middle third* of the ear.
• Alignment: Position the tag carefully between the two cartilage ribs to avoid heavy veins and unnecessary bleeding.
• Orientation: Ensure the "male" portion (the stem) enters from the back of the ear.
• Security: The RFID "female" button (the electronic chip) should always be seated on the inside of the ear.

For assistance on applying RFID Tags, reach out to our team for expert guidance and technical support.

Pair your electronic recordkeeping system with these essentials to complete your management routine:

• Visual Ear Tags provide quick identification from a distance.
• Tag Applicators ensure a secure, permanent fit.
• Cattle ID Equipment for high-quality sorting poles, paddles, and chute accessories.

Our curated selection ensures you'll find everything needed for effective livestock identification and recordkeeping.

At Valley Vet, we're committed to providing reliable and affordable solutions for your herd management needs. Shop our full collection today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are RFID ear tags USDA-approved?

A: Yes, our 840 tags are official USDA identification. They are required for moving cattle across state lines and for many livestock shows.

Q: How long do RFID tags last?

A: These tags are made from weather-resistant polymers designed for the life of the animal. They won't fade or fall out when applied correctly.