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Ingrown horns pose serious threat

By Contributed

Nov 28, 2025

Photograph of some brown cows taking it easy in a green agricultural paddock in the sunshine in the Blue Mountains in NSW, Australia. Photo by Phillip Wittke

NSW Department of Primary Industries has issued guidance on preventing and managing ingrown horns in livestock, highlighting this as a serious animal welfare issue that requires immediate attention from farmers and livestock handlers.

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Ingrown horns occur when horns pierce, aggravate or cause abrasion to an animal's head, potentially growing into the face or eyes.

These wounds can become infected and cause significant pain to affected animals.

“The department emphasises that horn management forms part of routine husbandry practice and represents a legal duty of care for livestock owners,” the DPI factsheet suggests.

“Severe penalties may apply if ingrown horns are not managed or treated appropriately.

“Animals with ingrown horns are deemed unfit for transport, as movement will worsen the condition and cause unnecessary pain.

“Livestock owners must treat ingrown horns and allow wounds to heal completely before any transport occurs.”

Prevention strategies include regular monitoring of horn growth, performing husbandry procedures such as tipping or trimming well in advance of journeys, completing disbudding or dehorning procedures when animals are young, and considering polled (hornless) breeds.

All husbandry procedures must align with Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for sheep and cattle, using appropriate tools, pain relief and hygiene measures.

Veterinary advice should be sought when necessary.

For more information, contact NSW DPI Animal Welfare on (02) 6360 5344 or email animal.welfare@dpi.nsw.gov.au.

Additional resources are available at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/animals-and-livestock/beef-cattle/husbandry/general-management/dehorning-cattle or through NSW Local Land Services on 1300 795 299.