Ruminant castration practices: methods, timing, outcomes, and complications

Castration, also referred to as orchidectomy, is the removal of testicles in male animals. It is among the oldest and most practiced surgical procedures in livestock management. In ruminants castration is commonly performed for behavioral control, meat quality improvement, reproductive management, and easier handling. In traditional Indian livestock systems, male animals such as cattle and buffaloes are castrated and trained as draught animals, while in small ruminants like sheep and goats, castration improves carcass quality by reducing the gamey flavor and increasing fat deposition.