Artificial cattle fattening: what every qurbani buyer should know

Rayhan Abid, BAU Correspondent:  As Eid-ul-Azha draws near, cattle markets around the country are witnessing a growing rush of buyers and sellers. Capitalising on the high seasonal demand, some unscrupulous traders are reportedly using steroids, growth hormones and other harmful substances to artificially fatten sacrificial animals for greater financial gain. Experts caution that these unethical practices can seriously harm animal health and may also create potential health risks for consumers.

Providing guidance on the issue, Mohammad Alam Miah from the Department of Physiology at Bangladesh Agricultural University explained how buyers can recognise artificially fattened cattle and discussed scientific approaches to natural cattle fattening.

According to Dr. Alam Miah, artificially fattened cattle often have dry noses, swollen and flabby bodies, and excessive water retention. These animals become exhausted quickly after walking short distances and usually show rapid breathing. They often appear weak, lethargic and may even struggle to stand properly.

He said such cattle show reduced physical responsiveness when touched. If pressure is applied to their body with a finger, the skin remains depressed for some time instead of quickly returning to normal. The thigh muscles also tend to feel unusually soft, while their bones become comparatively weaker, increasing the risk of fractures.

The expert further noted that artificially fattened cattle usually have poor appetite and irregular rumination. In many cases, excessive saliva or foam may come out of their mouths. After being transported to cattle markets over long distances, they become fatigued very easily and often hesitate to stand once seated.

Explaining the signs of healthy cattle, Dr. Alam Miah said a healthy cow generally has a moist nose, bright eyes and quick physical responses. Healthy cattle are naturally active, show interest in food and chew cud regularly. Their skin also appears tight and glossy.