Ask the Vet
What's the Best Method of Castrating Calves?
READER QUESTION:
My question is about castration of calves. I was taught that it's best to cut off the bottom third to bottom half of the scrotum before removing each testicle. But a rancher told me it's better to cut off all of the scrotum before removing the testicles. He said you have less of a problem with infection this way, and it's a better method. What do you think is the best method of castration?
DR. MCMILLAN'S ANSWER:
In the case of smaller calves, I recommend removing only the bottom third of the scrotum, being very sure that none of the cord or subcutaneous tissue is exposed below the opening. When I say smaller calves, for me that can be subjective. I start looking at other alternatives in the 300- to 400-pound range.
My preferred method of castration is to use an instrument called a Newberry knife. This is used to make a quick side-to-side cut through the bottom half of the scrotum, perpendicular to the body. Testicles are pushed up toward the body wall, and the knife is clamped across the scrotum and pulled downward, opening up both sides of the scrotum. This approach is quicker and much safer for the operator than a knife, scalpel or razor blade.
I would suggest you talk with your veterinarian about pain control in these calves. I have been impressed with how much easier that makes it on the calf and the operator, and I am convinced it helps the bottom line in the long run.
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Editor's Note: Please contact your veterinarian with questions about the health of your herd or other animals. Every operation is unique, and the information in this column does not pertain to all situations. This is not intended as medical advice but is purely for informational purposes. Email Dr. Ken McMillan at vet@dtn.com.
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