Sheep incisor cutters and grinders

Authors: Frisken KW, Orr MB, Laws AJ
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 35, Issue 1-2, pp 14-15, Jan 1987
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant, Sheep
Subject Terms: Alimentary system/gastroenterology, Animal welfare, Oral/teeth
Article class: Correspondence

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Abstract: The cover story in the August New Zealand Journal of Agriculture promoted the use of two devices, the sheep incisor grinder and the sheep incisor cutter, to allow sheep to `be kept on for an extra season or two’. The indications for use of these devices were not described, nor was the rationale behind their use. Furthermore, no evidence was presented to show that their use increased productivity. We believe therefore that no farmer in New Zealand is justified in using the sheep incisor grinder or cutter. Furthermore, in the wrong hands, these could be very cruel instruments. It is possible that the grinding device may have some limited application in sheep showing early signs of periodontal-disease on farms where periodontal disease is impairing flock productivity. Shortening protruding incisors from 1.5 millimetres or more in length to 10 to 12 millimetres may sometimes improve the grazing efficiency of the incisors. However, deeper grinding and any use of a cutting disc on sheep incisors are likely to be very painful procedures because the pulp cavity is richly supplied by sensory nerves and blood vessels. There is also the risk that the exposed pulp cavity will become infected resulting in pulpitis and tooth root abscesses. The article implies that, by grinding or cutting incisors which are long or unevenly worn, sheep will remain productive for several extra seasons. No evidence was presented to support this claim…

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