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Effect of Slaughter Weight and Castration on Carcass Characteristics of Lambs¹

University of Kentucky, Lexington

Abstract

Thirty ram and 30 wether lambs were weaned at 18 kg, grown to predetermined slaughter weights of 36, 45 and 54 kg, and slaughtered. Wethers had higher dressing percents than rams. Value of ram carcasses plus testicles was similar to value of wether carcasses from similar-sized lambs. Rams had more carcass weight per day of age. Wether carcasses were fatter as denoted by greater fat measurements, more fat trim, more fat in legs and lower retail yield and edible portion yield. Heavier carcasses in both sex groups were fatter and had lower yields of retail cuts and edible portion and higher yields of fat trim. The increase in fatness and decreases in retail yield and edible portion were greater in wether than in ram carcasses as carcass weight increased. Castration had on effect on carcass grades.

¹ The investigation reported in this paper (69-5-68) is in connection with a project of the Kentucky Agricultural Experiment Station and is published with approval of the Director.