When deciding to cull a cow, first and foremost is she pregnant or not. In a commercial cow/calf operation it is not economical to carry over nonpregnant cows. Udder and mammary gland conformation would be next. If the cow has a bad quarter or two or poor teat structure, then it will be difficult for her to raise a quality calf. Also, in most commercial operations, there is not 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, then it may be an indication that due to mature size or amount of milk produced, that she doesn't fit. Body condition influences reproductive performance, these cows may not get bred 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, then this female may be considered to be culled. This is last because, if you have done your homework when selecting replacements, producing the "right" kindof calf should not be a problem.
Think of the 4 "O"s. Open, Old, Onery, and Oddballs.
