CA Food & Agric Code Section 17552

It is unlawful for any person, with the intent to steal any sheep, goat, hog, shoat, or pig, or prevent its identification by the true owner, to do any of the following:

(a)

Mark or brand such an 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.