Professor Dr. Mohammad Alam Mia. File photo

MYMENSINGH, May 14, 2026 (BSS) - As the sacrificial animal market begins to attract increasing numbers of buyers ahead of the holy Eid-ul-Azha, an animal expert from Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) has warned consumers to remain cautious about artificially fattened animals being sold in markets across the country.

Professor Dr. Mohammad Alam Mia of the Department of Physiology at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) said on Thursday that some dishonest traders are using steroids, growth hormones and harmful drugs to artificially fatten cattle in pursuit of higher profits. 

He warned that the practice not only harms animal health but also poses serious risks to human health.

In a warning message issued on Thursday afternoon, Dr. Alam Mia said cows can be fattened naturally and scientifically through proper care and management. He explained that selecting healthy cattle aged between two and four years, regular deworming, balanced feeding, vitamin-mineral supplements and maintaining hygienic conditions can help farmers achieve healthy weight gain within three to six months.

However, he expressed concern that many traders are now resorting to harmful chemicals and medicines for rapid fattening.

According to the BAU expert, artificially fattened cows often show several unusual physical symptoms. Their noses are usually dry, while their bodies appear swollen due to excess water retention. Such animals become tired quickly, pant excessively after minor movement and often struggle to stand for long periods.

He also said that these cows appear sluggish and weak. When pressure is applied to their bodies, the flesh may sink and take time to return to normal, indicating abnormal water accumulation. The thigh meat of these animals is often excessively soft, while their bones remain comparatively weak, increasing the risk of fractures.

Dr. Alam Mia further said that artificially fattened cattle generally show little interest in food and grazing. In some cases, excessive saliva or foam can be seen around their mouths. After being transported to markets, these animals become exhausted quickly and are reluctant to rise once seated.

The professor also highlighted several signs of healthy and naturally fattened cows. He said healthy cattle usually have wet or sweaty noses, bright eyes and quick body reactions when touched. They remain active, playful and eager to eat.

He added that the skin of healthy cows appears tight and shiny. If pressure is applied to their bodies, the flesh quickly returns to its original state, which indicates normal and natural fattening.

Dr. Alam Mia warned that many farmers, often following advice from unqualified practitioners, use steroids such as dexamethasone and prednisolone to fatten animals rapidly. He said these drugs weaken the immune system of animals and severely damage their liver and kidneys, sometimes even causing sudden death.

He urged buyers to remain vigilant while purchasing sacrificial animals and advised them not to judge cattle solely by size. Instead, buyers should carefully observe the animal’s behavior, breathing, movement and nose condition.

“If there is any doubt, buyers should seek advice from livestock officials or veterinary doctors,” he added.