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How to Fluff Your Steer's Tail

In many states across the country showing cattle at special events such as shows, community festivals and county fairs is a common occurrence. Judges usually assess different aspects of the animals shown, including how they are groomed. When you are showing a steer, it is important to make sure its tail head, which is the bush of fur at the end of the tail, is fluffed properly.

Things You'll Need

Water hose
Mild soap
Blowdryer
Brush
Tail adhesive
Fluffer comb

Instructions

- 1
  Spray your steer's tail with water using a hose. Once it is fully saturated, apply a mild shampoo or other type of mild soap to your steer's tail and lather. If you do not own a mild shampoo, use dish soap. Avoid using a commercial livestock shampoo as the product can be very drying to steer fur. Rinse off the shampoo thoroughly using the hose.
- 2
  Set your blowdryer on a mild setting and apply heat to your steer's tail as you comb it with a brush. Be careful not to keep your blowdryer's heat too long on any portion of your steer's tail as it may burn the animal.
- 3
  Apply a tail adhesive your steer's tail head using the palms of your hands. Tail adhesive dries fast but allows for easier fluffing once dry.
- 4
  Tease out your steer's tail head using a fluffer comb. Fluff in the same direction the steer's fur grows. For example, if you are sitting directly behind the steer with its tail in your hands, place the brush near the tail head base and brush toward you in small, short strokes.

Animals & Science