Early castration is the final procedure illustrated. This practice is becoming more popular for several reasons:

1. One person can perform the operation alone.

2. There is less stress on the animal, less bleeding and less tissue damage because the cord is still, weak.

3. Deaths due to hernias are fewer in little pigs.

4. A young pig heals faster and cleaner than an older one.

There are some disadvantages:

1. If pigs are weak the extra stress may be too much.

2. If pigs start to scour before healed, there may be infection.

3. You may miss one testicle that has not descended yet. In such case, make a note and check again when the pig is ten days to two weeks old.

courtesy of U of F swine extension