Tuberculosis, Brucellosis, and Paratuberculosis in Cattle and Bison; Identification Requirements

We are amending the tuberculosis, brucellosis, and paratuberculosis regulations by requiring brands for certain cattle and bison to be placed on the hip rather than the jaw. This action will reduce distress to cattle and bison that need to be identified with a brand by moving the brand to a location that is less sensitive, but that is still clearly visible. We are also allowing certain cattle and bison to be moved interstate to slaughter without branding if they are accompanied directly to slaughter by an Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service or State representative or are moved in vehicles closed with official seals. These actions respond to increasing public concern that branding on the jaw causes unnecessary distress to cattle and bison.