Castration

Horse Castration/Gelding

Stallions and colts can be dangerous especially when around in season mares. That is why it is recommended that they get castrated if they are not intending to live as a breeding stallion. This reduces the risk of unwanted pregnancies and some negative behavioural traits of stallions.

Castration involves the surgical removal of both testicles. They can be done in a dry clean stable or yard and so there is no need for referral to a specialist surgical theatre for routine castrations. They can be performed at any time of year but we recommend either in spring or autumn months as this reduces the risk of infections due to wet/muddy conditions in winter and flies during the summer months.

The procedure can either be done under sedation or general anaesthesia. It is important to discuss this decision with the vet as factors such as age, size, facilities, temperament and general demeanour can all influence this decision. Generally we recommend castration under general anaesthesia as it is often quicker and safer for the patient, the vet and any person assisting handling.

Castration requires both testicles to be descended into the scrotum. Sometimes one testicle fails to descend and is known as a retained testicle and the individual known as a ‘Rig’. In order to castrate these individuals identification of where the testicle is located is needed and possibly an incision into the abdomen is needed which requires a lengthier anaesthetic and so would require referral to a specialist surgical theatre.

What’s needed for castration?

In order to castrate and minimise infection and other risks we require;

- colt/stallion to be in good general health, vaccinated against tetanus and both testicles descended

- suitable facilities with large enough space in order for the patient to fall to the floor without causing injuries, clean and dry bedding and available warm water for surgical preparation.

- assistance for handling during anaesthesia and during the surgery

Risks

As with all procedures there are possible risks involved. Every action in order to reduce these risks will be taken by the veterinary surgeon but can never be totally avoided.

Risks include;

- Infection – close monitoring post surgery is recommended so that signs of infection can be noticed and treated in a timely manner

- Bleeding – some bleeding is to be expected but if you notice continuous bleeding following castration please call us on 01548 853322 

- Herniation – this is where abdominal organs can herniate into an abnormal position, close monitoring behavioural changes and the surgical wound following castration will allow prompt correction if this complication is encountered