Home
Herdly

Cattle Weight Estimator

Estimate cattle weight using body measurements without a scale

Measurement System

How to Measure

Cattle measurement guide showing heart girth (A) and body length (B)

Measure the Heart Girth (A) behind the front legs and Body Length (B) from shoulder to tail base.

Enter Measurements

cm
cm

Weight Estimation Formulas

Winter Formula (Tropical Cattle)

Best for Sapi Bali, PO, Brahman Cross:

Weight (kg) = (Girth² × Length) ÷ 10,815.15

Schaeffer Formula (European Breeds)

Best for Bos Taurus breeds:

Weight (lbs) = (Girth² × Length) ÷ 300

Tips for Accurate Measurements

  • Heart Girth: Measure around the body just behind the front legs, wrapping the tape snugly.
  • Body Length: Measure from the point of shoulder to the pin bone (tail base).
  • Use a flexible measuring tape for accuracy.
  • Ensure the animal is standing squarely on level ground.
  • Take measurements in the morning before feeding for best accuracy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is this weight estimator?

Weight estimates using heart girth and body length measurements are typically accurate within ±5-10% of actual weight. Accuracy depends on proper measurement technique and the breed of cattle. For the most accurate results, ensure the animal is calm and standing squarely.

Which formula should I use?

Use Metric (cm/kg) with the Winter Formula for tropical cattle breeds common in Indonesia and Southeast Asia (Bali, PO, Brahman Cross). Use Imperial (in/lbs) with the Schaeffer Formula for European breeds (Bos Taurus). When in doubt, the Winter Formula provides reliable estimates for most cattle in tropical regions.

Why is heart girth more important than body length?

In the weight formulas, heart girth is squared, making it the more influential measurement. A 10% error in heart girth measurement will have a greater impact on the estimated weight than a 10% error in body length. This is why accurate heart girth measurement is critical.

Can I use this for other livestock?

These formulas are specifically calibrated for cattle (cows and bulls). Different livestock species like sheep, goats, or pigs have their own weight estimation formulas. Using cattle formulas for other animals will not give accurate results.

Background
Get Started

Ready to Manage Your Livestock Better?

Join thousands of modern farmers using Herdly.