Survey of Castration Practices and Complications in Small Ruminants in Nasarawa State

Castration is one of the most widely performed surgical procedures in small ruminant production systems across Nigeria, yet its practices and associated complication rates among rural farmers in North Central states are inadequately documented. This cross-sectional study surveys castration methods, operator qualifications, complication rates, and postoperative care practices among goat and sheep owners in Nasarawa State from February to September 2023. Structured interviews were conducted with 142 farmers and 28 field veterinary personnel across five local government areas. Physical examination of 320 previously castrated animals was also undertaken to assess healing status and residual complications. Rubber ring elastration was the most frequently reported method, used in 61% of cases by farmers without veterinary training. Burdizzo clamping accounted for 24% and open castration for 15% of recorded procedures. Complication prevalence was 26.9%, with tetanus, wound infection, and scrotal hematoma being the most frequently encountered sequelae. Animals castrated by trained veterinary personnel had significantly lower complication rates than those managed by farmers or para-professionals. Age at castration, hygiene practices, and postoperative wound care were identified as significant determinants of outcome. The study recommends regulatory enforcement of castration practice standards, vaccination against tetanus before castration, and expanded veterinary extension services targeting smallholder farmers in Nasarawa State. Keywords: castration, small ruminants, complications, Nasarawa State, surgical practice.