Cattle and calf pairs are typically sold by what unit?

Cattle and calf pairs are typically sold by the head, which refers to the individual count of animals being sold rather than their weight, age, or breed. Selling by the head is a common practice in livestock auctions because it allows buyers and sellers to transact based on a straightforward measure—every pair is counted as one unit, simplifying the pricing and negotiation processes. This method facilitates clear communication about the number of pairs available for sale and helps set pricing based on demand and quality.

Other methods, such as selling by weight or breed, can complicate transactions because they require more detailed assessments and calculations. Age can also be relevant to the valuation but is not the primary basis for sale in this context. Therefore, counting and trading cattle and calf pairs by the head is the most practical and widely adopted approach within the industry.