Many cuts on horses go untreated, but one surgical intervention that is always accompanied by tetanus prevention treatment is castration.
A lot of colts are castrated during the spring time of their yearling year, however autumn time gives horse owners another opportunity to carry out this procedure.
When is the best time to castrate?
While most horses are castrated as yearlings there is no reason why they may not be castrated earlier or later. There is no evidence to suggest that colts left entire develop any faster or stronger than their castrated comrades. Castrations are usually carried out in the spring and autumn. This avoids the heat and the flies of the summer as well as the frost and mud of the winter.
What is castration?
Castration involves the removal of both testicles through incisions into the scrotum. To minimise blood loss an emasculator is applied to the connecting blood vessels and tubes which are crushed. In an open castration the wound is left open to drain and heals over a period of weeks. Closed castration where the wound is closed is the preferred method if there is any chance of herniation of the intestines through the wound.
Can castration be carried out in the standing position?
It is possible to castrate a colt in the standing position using sedation and local anaesthetic. To do this the horse must be: 1. well handled 2. have two descended testicles 3. the vet is happy that there is no intestine in the scrotum ie. a scrotal/inguinal hernia While standing castration is not a sterile procedure it is desirable to carry it out in as clean an environment as possible.
Why are some horses knocked for castration?
It is necessary to administer a general anaesthetic to some horses for castration. Some situations that may necessitate the administration of a general anaesthetic include: 1. A poorly handled fractious horse that presents a risk to the vet and handler 2. Castration when a scrotal hernia is present 3. If an undescended testicle is in the groin area it may be removed in the anaesthesised horse.
What is a rig?
Sometimes when a horse is presented for castration it is not possible to find one or both testicles. While the testicle may be located in the groin area, often the testicle is retained in the abdomen. This means that the horse is a cryptorchid or “rig”. These horses generally require more invasive surgery to locate and remove the retained testicle. Often a horse presented for castration with one testicle may have an unknown history and it is possible that the other testicle was previously removed. A blood test to assess hormone levels will tell whether the horse is a rig.
What are the risks associated with castration?
Routine castration is usually uneventful but there can be: a) Haemorrhage: some bleeding is normal. However excessive or prolonged bleeding is a worry and should be attended to. Donkeys are particularly at risk of haemorrhage after castration. b) Infection of the wound is common while infection of the remains of the cord leading to schirrous cord is a rare problem. c) Evisceration of abdominal contents through the wound is the most serious consequence following castration and is often fatal. d) Swelling of the sheath often extending under the belly can develop and usually signifies the presence of infection.
How should i care for my horse after castration?
Proper care after castration can reduce side effects and mean a quicker return to work. Your vet may prescribe antibiotics and painkillers. There is generally no need to treat the wound. Controlled exercise, for example going on a horse walker, will reduce swelling or prevent it. Sale Windows 7 Ultimate
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