Surgical castration, also referred to as orchidectomy, emasculation, gelding and cutting, is one of the most common procedures performed in the working equine. To perform this safely, you will need to know the principles of surgery, having ensured both testes are descended and are ready to go! Most horses are castrated between 1 and 2 years of age when masculine behaviour becomes intolerable. However, there are other indications for castration:
Aggression. Horses often become more docile and manageable after surgical removal of the testes and reduction of testosterone.
Birth control. Castration can be carried out in animals unsuitable for the genetic pool (breeding).
Testicular neoplasia. The majority of testicular tumours in horses are slow growing and castration provides a cure.
Inguinal hernias. Castration is necessary during the treatment of some inguinal hernias.
Testicular trauma. In cases where trauma is severe, castration is considered the best method of treatment.
These next sections will prepare you to undertake a castration procedure with confidence to ensure a safe and successful outcome for your patient.