When deciding to cull a cow, consider first and foremost whether she is pregnant. In a commercial cow/calf operation, it is not economical to carry over nonpregnant cows.
The next consideration would be udder and mammary gland conformation. If the cow has a bad quarter or two or poor teat structure, it will be difficult for her to raise a quality calf. Also, most commercial operations don't have the labor force to milk out cows and bottle feed calves because of poor teats and udders.
If the cow has difficulty maintaining body condition on the forage resources that you have in your operation and you have to supplement her with high energy feeds to help her maintain body condition, it may be an indication that, due to mature size or amount of milk produced, she doesn't fit. Body condition influences reproductive performance. These cows may not get rebred during the breeding season.
Cow disposition is important as is proper structure, especially feet and legs.
Finally, the type of calf that is weaned is important, and if the expectations are not met, this female may be considered to be culled. This is the last consideration because, if you have done your homework when selecting replacements, producing the "right" kind of calf should not be a problem.
