bloodless, easy to perform
• large lesions may form above the band site and persist for long times, making latex bands inappropriate for yearling cattle
• wounds heal more slowly than those from surgical castration
• newest versions of banders for older calves adjust the latex bands to correct tension
• potential for missed testicles
• band may break or band may not disrupt all circulation to the testicles
• preferred for castrating at a wet, muddy feedlot
• infections, including tetanus and blackleg, may warrant vaccination prior to banding
• public concern about pain and animal welfare associated with banding older calves
• lower weight gains following latex-band castration compared to surgical castration
• EZE and Callicrate methods without anaesthesia for older bulls deemed inhumane and unethical