Use ’em or lose ’em – that’s our motto! If a colt is not going to be used for breeding then we recommend he is castrated. This will allow him to live with other horses, eliminate the risk of unwanted pregnancies, and whilst some stallions are perfectly behaved, in general geldings are calmer and easier to manage and ride.
Routine castrations are done under standing sedation and local anaesthetic. We require a clean stable in which to perform them. The incision is left open and we recommend an initial 24-48 hours of box rest to allow clotting. After this time it is preferable to be able to turn him out to allow him to exercise and reduce swelling.