Beef Cow Udder Teat Score

     When you are selecting replacement cows and using the "Beef Cow Udder Tear Score" as one of your tools you will want to remember that teat size can vary considerably.  From a "Teat Score" standpoint it is generally more desirable as teat size becomes smaller, more symmetrical, and more central in placement on the quarters. As you categorize the teat size in your mind it is usually a good idea to think in terms of very small, small, intermediate, large, and very large. You should also keep in mind that a beef cow will very seldom have what you would categorize as a very small teat size. It is much more common to find or categorize them in three categories, small, intermediate and large. As the teat size becomes larger they will also tend to be thicker, less symmetrical, and suspend below the hock.

Above image is typical of teat sizes associated with the BIF scoring system.

     Some of the general terms and explanations of the teat scoring system is shown below. In comparing them with the above image you will note that they get progressively worse as you move from left to right, from image 1 through 5.

Teat Score 9, number 1 above.
     Teats are very small in length, rounded at the ends, and symmetrical.
     Teats are located in the center of the quarters.
     Teats point straight to the ground.

Teat Score 7, number 2 above.
     Similar to teat score 9, but the teats are longer.
    Teats are located in the center of the quarters.
    Teats point straight to the ground.

Teat Score 5, number 3 above.
     Teats are longer.
     Teats are larger in diameter.
     Teats appear to be thicker.
     Teats appear less symmetrical compared to teat score size 9, 8, 7, and 6.
     Teats may not point straight to the ground.
     Teats may not be centered on the quarters.

Teat Score 3, number 4 above.
     Teats are long and large in diameter.
    Teats appear thicker and not symmetrical.
    Teats may appear to be funnel shaped.
    Teats may appear begin to balloon at the point of attachment to the quarter. 
    Teats are usually suspended below the hock.
    When filled with milk, teats will not point straight to the ground.
    Extra "Milk Out" will usually be needed at calving.
    Replacement heifer retention from these dams is discouraged.

Teat Score 1, number 5 above.
     Teats are long, appear thick, and usually large and funnel or pear shaped.
    Teats suspend well below the hock.
    Teats are difficult for a new-born calf to find, attach, and suckle.
    "Milk Out" definitely required at calving to avoid a spoiled quarter or mastitis.
     Never keep replacements from these dams.
     Cull these females from the herd.