Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Even though it is considered a straightforward procedure, castration never should be attemp-
ted for the first time without the presence and assistance of a veterinarian or qualified profes-
sional. Incorrect castration will cause damage and unnecessary pain to the pig. Watching the
process a few times beforehand is helpful.
• Lay the young male pig down on its side on a small hay bale.
• Have someone secure the back legs to keep them from moving.
• Make a small incision over each testicle, cutting through the scrotum. Use a sterile scalpel
or castration knife for this.
• Pull each testicle free of the incision along with some of the cord. The thin cord will be
visible inside the incision.
• Cut the testicle loose or pull until the cord breaks.
• Spray on a generous layer of antiseptic solution. No bandage is necessary.
Keep a close eye on the site of the castration for several days. Check for swelling, fever, dis-
charge, or any other sign that it may not be healing properly. Keep pigs in a clean, dry stall to
promote healing.
Developing hernias after castration is not uncommon, but a veterinarian should be consulted if
this occurs. The problem is much too serious to self-treat. Tissue protruding through the in-
cision or bulges is a sign that the area has herniated. The tissue will have to be pushed back
into place and the incisions stitched shut.
Tail docking
Docking the tail on pigs most often ends up being a procedure based on personal farmer pref-
erence. Animal rights groups tend to vilify the process as being inhumane and unnecessary
and the cause of undue stress and pain. The tail does contain bone, but in young pigs, it is a
soft, gristle-like, or cartilage-fibrous consistency.
Bleeding when docking pig tails is minimal and often absent altogether. The market tends to
be fickle regarding the value and desire of tail docking. Feeder pigs without docked tails may
not sell at market.
