Implanting grazing cattle is one of the most profitable management tools available to stocker operators. Stocker steers appear somewhat more responsive to implants than heifers. High forage quality and availability are important to maximize the performance capability of any implant program. Moreover, additive gain responses should be expected from implants, feed additives and internal and external parasite control products because the modes of action of these compounds are distinctly different. The feedlot performance and carcass merit of cattle previously implanted as stockers should not be different from the stockers that are not implanted, provided an adequate feedlot implant program is used to maximize finishing performance.
Several implants are available with varying active ingredients and modes of action.
The only approved implantation site for all brands in subcutaneously in the middle-third of the back of the ear. In summary, a variety of quality implant products are available for stocker producers to choose from. All are cost effective if administered properly and adequate nutrition is provided. Yet, producer surveys indicate that only 40 to 65 percent of stocker cattle are implanted. Therefore, implants are one of the most cost-effective practices available to cattlemen.