Age and Dentition
Most market specifications include age limits. These are usually defined by dentition - the number of permanent incisor teeth.
It could be important for you to mouth your cattle prior to sale to ensure they all meet their market specification for dentition. Discounts will be applied if they don't meet the dentition specifications.
The age of an animal affects meat quality in terms of tenderness, meat colour and flavour.
The exact age at which the next pair of teeth erupts varies from animal to animal. It is influenced by genetics, nutrition and environment. Earlier maturing breeds 'cut their teeth' earlier than later maturing cattle.