Castrations

When to castrate? 

Most horses are castrated as yearlings but can be done from 6 mths if both testicles have descended. They can be done at any age but the older the horse becomes the testicles enlarge and have a greater blood supply which increases the chances of post operative bleeding and we prefer to  do them in the hospital where they can be monitored. Horses can be gelded all year round but preferred during cooler weather when less flies. 
 

How to castrate? 

We castrate most colts under sedation and local anaesthesia in a standing position. Colts that very resistant to handling and likely to kick are done under a short general anaesthesia as are those with a retained testicle.  
 

Post operative care

The castration sites are left open to allow the post op swelling to drain. It is important that the sites stay open for 7 to 10 days. We advise twice daily hosing of the wounds and if the wounds start to close cleaning with warm water and hibiscrub and cotton wool to remove any scabs. Exercise is very important so turn out 24 hrs after the op is essential. Painkillers are administered for 3 to 5 days post op. Contact with mares should be avoided for 6 weeks.