Wethers

Wether refers to a castrated male sheep (Ovis aries). The term distinguishes these animals from rams, which are intact males capable of breeding, and ewes, which are females. In common agricultural usage, a wether is specifically a male sheep that has been castrated, typically before reaching sexual maturity. The term is most frequently applied to sheep, though regional usage can vary for other species.

Castration is performed to prevent unwanted breeding, reduce aggression and mounting behavior, and improve meat quality and uniformity. The operation is usually carried out at a young age, often within the first weeks or months of life, though timing varies by flock management. Methods include surgical castration and bloodless techniques such as elastic bands or castration clamps. Pain control and animal welfare are important considerations; local anesthesia and analgesia are recommended where available, and procedures should be conducted by or under supervision of a veterinarian. Aftercare includes monitoring for infection and taking steps to prevent complications.

Most wethers are raised for meat. When slaughtered at a young age, their meat is commonly marketed as lamb; older castrates yield mutton. Wether carcasses are typically leaner with a milder flavor and more uniform size, which can aid processing. Wethers also appear in some specialty or mixed-farm roles, but their primary value remains meat production and flock management. Ethical considerations in modern farming focus on humane handling and minimizing pain during castration.