A castration is a commonly performed surgical procedure that is ideally carried out between 5 months and 2 years. Prior to the procedure, it should be established that both testicles have descended and ideally the colt will have received a primary tetanus vaccination course.

Castrations are most often carried out under standing sedation and local anaesthesia, however in some cases they may be done under general anaesthesia. This decision will be based on age, size, breed and temperament. We recommend that donkeys and older horses are done in a hospital under general anaesthesia, due to an increased risk of post operative complications. Cryptorchid colts who only have one testicle descended will be referred for castration under general anaesthesia.

Although castration is a commonly performed routine procedure, it is still an invasive surgery and therefore occasionally complications will occur. These will be discussed prior to the procedure, along with thorough instructions on aftercare

If you have a colt requiring castration, then please give us a call to discuss. If you already have an appointment booked for a castration, then please see our factsheet below on what to expect.