Q&A for How to Band a Goat

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  • Question
    Is banding a full grown male goat done the same way as a little one?
    Community Answer
    Yes, but they might be a bit more wild and will need more medication so you might need more than one person to help.
  • Question
    At what age should I band a goat?
    Snafu Hoss
    Community Answer
    In my experience, it is best to band goats at 6 weeks; this is about 2 weeks before they can impregnate a doe.
  • Question
    What is the age limit on banding a goat?
    Community Answer
    There is no age limit, but it is easiest when the goat is young.
  • Question
    Do I put the rubber band on in the morning and take it off in the afternoon of the same day?
    Community Answer
    No. You leave the rubber band on. It will fall off when the testicles fall off.
  • Question
    Can a string be used to castrate a baby goat, or does it have to be a rubber band?
    Community Answer
    It needs to be a castration band. As stated in the article above, office supplies will not work. I would not use string, as it is not elastic and could easily be too loose or too tight.
  • Question
    Is this the way to neuter male goats and cows?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can have a vet band them or clamp. Clamping is when you take the clamping tool and squeeze above the testicles. This works 90% of the time.
  • Question
    What happens if a nipple gets inside of the band?
    Community Answer
    Be careful that the nipple stays outside the band. If it gets inside, cut it off and try again. Since this works like a baby's belly button, whatever is inside the band will shrivel and fall off.
  • Question
    How do I help a goat kid that's just been banded?
    Community Answer
    Check on him every day to look for any signs of infection. If you see any, apply antiseptic, and/or contact a vet.
  • Question
    Is it normal to see a little blood in a goat's urine after banding?
    Aprilacee
    Community Answer
    No, you should not see any blood in their urine. It is most likely a sign of infection, and you should take the goat to a vet.
  • Question
    How should a kid behave after banding if it was done properly?
    Aprilacee
    Community Answer
    Initially, the kid might isolate itself and lie down. If their mother is around, they will usually go to her and nurse for comfort. They may also seem a little irritated, but it doesn't take long for them to bounce back.
  • Question
    Can I use a rubber tube to tie it?
    Aprilacee
    Community Answer
    In theory, yes, but it's not recommended. A rubber tube may not be as sterile or as tight as needed. It's better to use the appropriate tools.
  • Question
    Is it normal for my Nigerian dwarf goat to be very lethargic after banding?
    Aprilacee
    Community Answer
    To some degree, yes, but it shouldn't last more than a day. If it persists or if the goat stops eating, check for infection or other issues.
  • Question
    Is there an advantage to banding a goat before hormones kick in, besides preventing pregnancy?
    Aprilacee
    Community Answer
    Yes, banding a goat before hormones kick in can result in a smaller size, smaller horns, a nicer temperament, and better compatibility with other males in the herd. A neutered male can be sweeter than an intact male or female.
  • Question
    I just banded my goats and checked the placement, which looks good. They are lying down and don't want to get up. Is shock a problem, and what should I do to help them?
    Aprilacee
    Community Answer
    It is normal for goats to lie down after banding, but they should bounce back within 24 hours. Monitor them and consider giving them a little extra care and attention.
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