Elastration

Elastration is a method of castration commonly used for livestock. Elastration is simply banding the testicles of the male or the tail until they drop off. In particular, it is the most common method used for sheep and goats, ^[1], but is also common in cows.^[2] This method is favored for its simplicity, low cost, and minimal training requirements. Elastration simply involves restraining the animal, typically fully conscious without anaesthesia or sedation, in a position that provides access to the genitals, and placing an elastic band, called an "elastrator," around the base of the scrotum. Elastration is considered the least humane method of castration practiced commercially.^[3] This cuts off all blood to the testes, which atrophy and ultimately fall off.

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Practitioners usually try to elastrate as soon as possible, once the testicles have descended, to reduce the amount of dead tissue, infection, and accompanying complications.^[5] However, with some animals such as goats, castrating too early increases the frequency of kidney stones and urinary problems due to reduced size of the urethra, so elastration may be postponed. ^[6]

See also

• Animal husbandry

References