Wethering a goat, or castrating a male goat, is a common practice with several benefits, from easier handling to longer lifespan. In this guide, we'll explore what a wether goat is, the reasons for wethering, and the various methods to do it. Whether you're raising goats for companionship, land management, or production, understanding wethering is key to effective goat care.
Wethering a goat can be done through various methods, including banding, where a tight rubber band cuts off blood flow to the testicles; the Burdizzo method, which crushes the spermatic cords without breaking the skin; and surgical castration, where a veterinarian removes the testicles. Each method has its pros and cons, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs and skill level.
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What is a the Meaning of a "Wether Goat?"
Wether goats are castrated (fixed/neutered) male goats. Unlike bucks (intact males that can breed), wethers are not able to breed does.
Why Wether a Goat?
There are a few common reasons why bucks are neutered. First and foremost, not all bucks will create quality offspring. If your buck has a medical condition or undesirable traits / characteristics, they are not considered ideal for breeding. Castration ensures that a specific goat will not reproduce (especially accidentally).
Since they are unable to breed, it also means that wethers are able to live in the same space as a doe year-round. This can be cost effective compared to a second shelter and pen.
Wethered Goats Are Less Likely to Escape Their Enclosure
Bucks will often get anxious during breeding season and try to escape their pen to breed with female goats. Even a small breed like Nigerian Dwarf goats can clear a 6-foot fence to get to a female. This is particularly problematic as Nigerians can breed year-round.
Luckily wethers do not experience this anxiety and will likely stay separated during mating season.
Wethers Can Determine if a Doe is in Heat
While wethers can’t physically breed, they will still try to reproduce when a doe is in heat. This acts as a good gauge for when your doe is ready to breed, even if you did not detect the signs.
An average bucks lives 8 to 12 years, while wethers can live to 15 to 18 years! This is because they are neutered and no longer experiencing a strain from their reproductive system.
Wethers Are Cheaper To Obtain
On average, wethers are 20% of the cost of a buck, making them a budget friendly option.
Wethers Are Friendly, Quiet, Easy to Handle
Wethers are less aggressive than bucks due to the decrease in hormones. Most even consider them to be friendly and a pleasure to be around.
They also tend to be quieter than bucks during breeding time, which can be very desirable. Not to mention they are less smelly as they do not urinate on their beards.
Due to this many consider wethers to make great pets, even for families with children.
Wethers Are Great for Brush Clearing
As an omnivore, they will clear a variety of terrains including bushes, grass, sticks, weeds, and other various plants. Many consider them to be extraordinary lawnmowers.
Learn more in our article about how to use goats for weed control (Goat Landscaping).
Wethers Can be Raised for Meat or Fiber
Much like does and bucks wethers can be raised for other purposes such as fiber (cashmere) or even meat. For more ideas on how to monetize your wether goats, we have created a comprehensive guide for making income.
When Should You Wether A Goat?
It is best and easiest (for you and your goat) to neuter young, between 8 and 12 weeks old. However, it can be done at any time after that point with increased difficulty.
Wethering A Goat
There are several methods to wether a goat, including banding, surgical castration, and the use of a burdizzo tool. The choice of method depends on factors like the goat's age, health, and the owner's preference. It's important to wether goats at a young age, typically between 8 to 12 weeks, to minimize stress and complications.
Proper aftercare is crucial. Ensure the wethered goat has a clean environment to prevent infection, monitor for any signs of discomfort or complications, and provide pain relief if necessary.
This method can be done at home and involves placing a tight rubber band around the base of the scrotum, cutting off blood supply to the testicles. Over time, the testicles will dry up and fall off. Banding is a common and relatively simple method, best done when the goat is young (usually 8 to 12 weeks old).
It is important to keep in mind banding is not painless. When a tight rubber band is placed to cut off blood supply to the testicles, it causes discomfort and pain for the goat. The pain typically lasts for a few hours to a few days as the tissue loses blood flow and begins to die.
The Burdizzo is a specialized tool that crushes the spermatic cords without breaking the skin. This method effectively stops blood flow to the testicles, causing them to atrophy. It’s a bloodless method but requires skill to ensure both cords are properly crushed.
While the Burdizzo method can be done at home, it is important to have someone with experience perform it. Proper technique is crucial to ensure both spermatic cords are correctly crushed, and an experienced person can help minimize the risk of complications and ensure the procedure is done safely.
Surgical Castration
The most invasive and expensive method is surgical castration. In this method, a veterinarian or experienced handler surgically removes the testicles. This method is more invasive but can be necessary for older goats or in situations where precision is important. It requires careful aftercare to prevent infection.
Final Thoughts
Many farmers add wethers to their herd to reap a variety of benefits. Not only are they an affordable option to obtain but they are able to live with does without risk of breeding, making them ideal for many goat owners.
Learn More
Tips For Keeping Your Goats Cool and Comfortable in the Summer Heat: Keeping your goats cool in the summer is essential for their well-being. Learn how to provide shade, water, and other cooling measures with this guide.
Raising Goats Guide: Ready to embark on your goat-raising journey? This comprehensive guide is your go-to resource for all things goat-related. From housing and feeding to breeding and health care, we've got you covered!
Find the Perfect Name for Your Goat: 575+ Themed Ideas: We have put together a comprehensive and carefully curated list of cool pet goat names to make this process a breeze. Plus, did you know that goats can learn to come to their names?
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