Virginia Tech Newer technologies are now available for performing castrations on larger calves. These methods include the EZE Castration technique and the Kalicrate castrator. These techniques involve the application of large diameter elastic bands to the scrotum resulting in death of the testicular tissue. While these techniques offer an approach to castration that is more humane and perhaps less likely to result in complications, many of the time honored recommendations that have been in place for many years still stand.
Early castration is the most humane approach to castration.
Early castration provides for the greatest lifetime gains under most production systems as long as growth promotant implants are properly used to replace the anabolic effects of testosterone which is produced by the testicles. This adjustment period allows calves to recover from the effects of stress. Both surgical and the new banding techniques can be successfully used for castration of larger calves. Kansas State University research has studied the characteristics of bulls arriving at Kansas feedlots. Most of these bulls originate from small farms, commingle with other cattle at sale barns or at order buyer stations, and then get transported a long distance to the feedyard.