XL Vets equine factsheets

Castration of donkeys requires special care because donkeys have a larger blood supply to the testicles compared with horses and as such are at greater risk of bleeding post-surgery. For this reason most donkey castrations are performed under general anaesthesia (GA), to allow a ligature (secure suture) to be placed around the blood vessels. This reduces the risk of post-operative bleeding and intestinal prolapse through the surgical incision. Due to the need for GA and the technique required, castration is best performed at the clinic.