Castration is the process of removing the testis from bulls.
A castrated cow is called a steer and it is preferable to castrate young bulls at 90 days because mature bulls have higher chances of getting adverse effects like excessive bleeding when castrated. Steers are less aggressive, have tender and palatable meat, prevent surprise pregnancies and also bring more money on sale.
Castration process
For safe castration, you need a sharp knife, emasculator, chlorhexidine or 70% alcohol and anti septic wound spray.
First technique uses only the knife. Restrain the calf and ensure that both testicles are descended. Use a sharp knife to cut off the tip of the scrotum , pull one testicle out and downwards while pushing the the membranes up until the spermatic cord is exposed. Use a sharp knife to cut the spermatic as close to the scrotum as possible. Trim any fat tissue hanging out and spray the wound with a wound spray.
Observe the calves for 15 minutes after castration for excessive bleeding and 1 to 3 days after castration for any excessive swelling or other complications.
Using emasculator
This is designed to cut the spermatic cord and as well minimize bleeding. The calf is restrained as before and the tip of the scrotum cut using a sharp knife. Pull one testicle out and down wards while pushing the membranes upwards until the spermatic chord is exposed. Place the emasculator over the spermatic chord and squeeze to cut the spermatic chord. Repeat above for the other testicle and trim off any fat then spray on the wound with a wound spray.
