Animal scales are often installed on a livestock chute to weigh the animals as they enter or exit their pens. The best scales are easy to install and do not change the size or shape of the chute. It should be hardly noticeable once installed.
Purpose of a Livestock Scale
Anyone in the farming industry knows that weighing a cow or pig is not quite as simple as weighing a dog or cat. Pet veterinary offices have wide animal scales on which a dog or cat can be placed. No one is picking up a cow and placing it on a scale. Therefore, a livestock scale needs to be installed in a place where the animal walks every day on its own, such as the livestock chute. Having an animal scale can help you determine the average daily weight gain for your animals. This is useful in the beef or pork industry when marketing your product. It is also helpful when trying to determine the correct amount of feed needed for your animals.
Qualities of a Chute-Connected Livestock Scale
Obviously, anything that will be trampled by cattle or other large and heavy animals on a daily basis needs to be constructed of strong, reliable materials. Steel is the best material for any large-animal scale. These animal scales need to be able to handle up to about 10,000 pounds. They also need to have a minimal impact on the chute to which they are connected. Some scales are so bulky that they create a step for the animal. Others are difficult to access for readings. Be sure the scale is thin and the monitor is easy to see.
Finding the Right Scale
Consider the chute on your property and make sure you choose a scale that will fit properly and securely without causing a large step-up for the animals. You want it to be constructed of steel to endure continual use. Also, look into the warranties offered by the manufacturer. As these are heavily used on a daily basis, an extended warranty is something worth considering. The standard warranty is one year, but some companies offer longer ones. The longer the warranty, the more confident the company is in its product.