CA Food & Agric Code Section 17551

It is unlawful for any person with the intent to steal any bovine animal, horse, colt, jack, jenny, or mule which belongs to another person, or prevent its identification by the true owner to do any of the following:

(a)

Mark or brand any such animal with any brand or mark except the recorded brand or brand and mark of the owner of the animal.

(b)

Alter or deface a brand or mark on such an animal.