Castrating Male Kids

Melanie Barkley
Bedford County Extension Agent

Always give a C D & T vaccination under the skin in the neck area of any goats being castrated.

Castration is a process that is often performed when male kids are just a few days old. Castration is the process of removing the testicles to prevent the development of aggressive behaviors. As billies mature, they often become more aggressive and are likely to butt humans. In addition, intact male goats will also develop a very offensive odor as they mature, particularly during breeding season.

Several methods can be used for castration. Be sure to perform the castration process carefully and use good sanitation to prevent any sickness or death. Be careful of performing this task in warm weather when flies can lay eggs in the area that is healing. Always give a tetanus shot to kids when they are castrated. You can use a vaccine that includes overeating (types C & D) so that only one vaccination needs to be given. This vaccination will need a booster shot three to four weeks later. Some of the tools that can be used to castrate male kid goats are listed below:

Burdizzo

The burdizzo is a metal instrument that severs or crushes the cords and associated blood vessels leading to the testicles. This stops the blood circulation to the testicles so that they degenerate within the scrotum. This is also a bloodless method of castration. When using this method, be sure that both cords are severed or crushed. The cords are located above the testicles.

Elastrator

An elastrator uses a tool that stretches a heavy-duty rubber band (elastrator band) over the scrotum and testicles. It takes approximately two weeks for the scrotum to dry up and fall off. When using an elastrator band for castrating, be sure to check that both testicles are in the scrotum below the band.

Once the elastrator band is applied, the kid will show signs that he is in pain for 10 to 15 minutes, however, this is an effective and bloodless method of castrating kids. This method does not leave an open wound thereby decreasing the chance of infection.

Knife

A clean and sterile knife is a tradition method that can be used for castration. To castrate with a knife, cut the bottom of the scrotum off and pull each testicle out. Allow the cord to tear to prevent excessive bleeding. Do not cut the cord with the knife. The bottom of the scrotum should remain open to allow for drainage after castration. Before using a knife to dock or castrate, be sure to disinfect your hands and the knife.

Regardless of the method that you use to castrate your kids, be sure to watch the kids carefully for several days. Castrated males will be much easier to work with, particularly as they mature.

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