Castration is a common surgical procedure in horses, with almost every male horse going through the procedure. Done correctly, the incidence of serious complications is low. However, many horse owners have not gone through the procedure and have anxieties about it. This article explains when the best time is, how the procedure is done, and post-op care. It also covers the recognition of complications and treatments. The diagnosis and methods of dealing with cryptorchid stallions are also covered.

Around 12 to 16 months, a colts testis begin to secrete testosterone. He will not become fertile until around his second year, perhaps a little earlier, but he will start to display stallion-like behavior. You can typify this behavior as easily distracted, particularly by other horses, increased attempts to communicate with other horses, and an increase in colt-like play behavior that may shape itself into aggressive acts like nipping, head butting, pawing, and kicking.

The behavioral problems depend on the quality of the training and the innate personality of the horse. Some stallions with a minimum of training are nice guys, and then there are stallions with good, consistent, training that are dangerous to handle. The majority fall in between. With consistent, experienced training and handling, they are safe and enjoyable horses to be around. You have to remember about most stallions: every day is a training day.