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What Are Livestock Clippers?

Cindy Quarters
Cindy Quarters

When preparing an animal for show, it is common to trim excess hair so that the animal’s conformation is more easily seen. This typically requires the use of powerful, heavy-duty clippers. These are commonly referred to as livestock clippers, and can be used on many different kinds of animals. Livestock clippers vary in size, power and features. They can be selected for use on one specific type of animal or, for people who have different types of livestock, a more general-purpose clipper may be chosen.

Livestock clippers with a powerful, self-cooling motor are usually needed for clipping sheep. These clippers have interchangeable blades and won’t overheat when used for shearing the sheep or clipping them for show. Shearing generally involves removing the wool down to the skin, with the focus on preserving the wool, not the finished appearance of the sheep. This is usually done once a year and the sheep may look a bit ragged afterward. Show clipping is most commonly performed on lambs, with the goal of leaving a sleek layer of wool that shows off the animal’s build.

Barley, which is often used to feed livestock.
Barley, which is often used to feed livestock.

Other animals are also often groomed with livestock clippers to prepare them to be shown. Goats, horses and cattle are often clipped just before exhibition so that the judges can get a good look at how they are built and how they move. The livestock clippers used for very large animals need to be powerful and able to run a long time without overheating, but usually don’t need to be quite as sturdy as those used on sheep. Goat clippers need even less power, since they are usually used on dairy goats that have a minimum amount of hair to trim.

A young kid that has been recently groomed.
A young kid that has been recently groomed.

Livestock clippers are best if the blades are easily interchangeable, but blades that snap on and off may snag in an animal’s coat and come off at the wrong time. It is generally best if the blades are screwed on or use a clamping system to hold them in place. It is also a good idea to have backup blades when grooming livestock, so in case one becomes dull or damaged it can quickly be replaced and the grooming can continue.

Clipping sheep typically requires clippers with powerful, self-cooling motors.
Clipping sheep typically requires clippers with powerful, self-cooling motors.

Some types of livestock clippers are cordless, but these are typically used for small jobs such as neatening up a horse’s mane, trimming faces or grooming around feet. Such clippers may lose their charge partway through a big job, and it is not practical to recharge them while the animal waits. For large animals, thick coats or for working on more than one animal, plug-in livestock clippers are usually a better choice, since these maintain a consistent level of power.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are livestock clippers and what are they used for?

Cattle clippers are a type of livestock clippers that are generally used to remove the excess hair from show cattle.
Cattle clippers are a type of livestock clippers that are generally used to remove the excess hair from show cattle.

Livestock clippers are specialized tools designed for trimming and grooming the hair or wool of farm animals such as sheep, goats, cattle, and horses. They are essential for maintaining animal hygiene, preventing parasitic infestations, and preparing animals for shows or slaughter. Proper use of clippers can also contribute to better skin health and overall comfort for the animals.

How do livestock clippers differ from regular hair clippers?

Livestock clippers are more robust and powerful than regular hair clippers to handle the coarser hair and wool of animals. They often have stronger motors, durable blades, and are designed to work for extended periods without overheating. Additionally, they come with various blade options to accommodate different types of coats and shearing needs.

Can the same clippers be used on different types of livestock?

While some clippers are marketed as multi-purpose, it's generally recommended to use species-specific clippers for optimal results. For instance, sheep shears are designed to cut through dense wool, whereas clippers for horses or cattle might be tailored for finer hair. Using the right tool ensures efficiency and reduces the risk of injury to the animal.

How often should livestock be clipped?

The frequency of clipping depends on the species, breed, and purpose of the livestock. Sheep typically require shearing at least once a year, while show animals might be clipped more frequently for aesthetic purposes. It's important to adhere to the animal's natural growth cycles and consult with a veterinarian or experienced groomer for guidance.

What maintenance do livestock clippers require?

Livestock clippers require regular maintenance to function effectively. This includes cleaning the blades after each use, oiling the moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation, and sharpening the blades to maintain a clean cut. Proper storage in a dry, dust-free environment also prolongs the life of the clippers.

Are there any safety concerns when using livestock clippers?

Yes, safety is paramount when using livestock clippers. Operators should always read the manufacturer's instructions and receive proper training. It's crucial to keep the animal calm during clipping to prevent sudden movements that could lead to cuts or nicks. Additionally, ensuring the clippers are in good working order can prevent overheating, which could burn the animal's skin.

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    • Barley, which is often used to feed livestock.
      By: schankz
      Barley, which is often used to feed livestock.
    • A young kid that has been recently groomed.
      By: Gerhard Seybert
      A young kid that has been recently groomed.
    • Clipping sheep typically requires clippers with powerful, self-cooling motors.
      By: dinosmichail
      Clipping sheep typically requires clippers with powerful, self-cooling motors.
    • Cattle clippers are a type of livestock clippers that are generally used to remove the excess hair from show cattle.
      By: branex
      Cattle clippers are a type of livestock clippers that are generally used to remove the excess hair from show cattle.