castration news

castration news

back to index

Castration:

Sexually mature males are more aggressive than castrated males and 
are more likely to injure themselves, other males!  Intact males 
present managerial problems that may include homosexual behavior, 
incest and unwanted pregnancies. There are several methods used to 
castrate . One of the nonsurgical procedures uses an instrument 
called a burdizzo. This procedure requires the male to be restrained 
as the specially designed tool is placed on the scrotum above the 
testicles and is closed, crushing the spermatic cord. This action 
severs the blood supply to the testicles causing them to degenerate. 
The burdizzo requires skill to use properly, the procedure is slow 
and may result in only partial castration. Post-castration 
discomfort or pain from the use of the burdizzo is comparable to 
other castration methods.

One other nonsurgical castration procedure uses a tool known as an 
elastrator. Large, strong rubber bands are slipped over the 
testicles and released on the scrotum above the testicles, stopping 
the blood supply to the testicles. After several weeks, the 
testicles and scrotum degenerate and separate from the body. Like 
the other nonsurgical procedure, failures can occur if the rubber 
band breaks or is not applied properly. Post-castration discomfort 
is prolonged by this method.

Surgical removal of the testicles using sharp cutting instruments 
and emasculators involves opening the scrotum and removing the 
testicles by severing them from the spermatic cords. Aseptic 
techniques and trained personnel should be used to reduce the 
possibility of post-castration bleeding or infection. Clean and well 
maintained cutting instruments and emasculators should be used. The 
wound should be treated with an antiseptic solution. Castration 
failure is less likely to occur from this procedure than the 
nonsurgical procedures because the testicles are removed at the time 
of surgery. Post-castration discomfort is normally not as long as it 
is when elastrators are used.


                              ####