geldings

A gelding is a male horse or pony that has been castrated, meaning the testes have been removed or rendered nonfunctional. This distinguishes geldings from stallions, which remain intact and capable of breeding, and from colts, young intact males. In most cases, gelding is performed when the animal is young, typically as a foal or yearling, though some are castrated later for management or behavioral reasons.

The procedure is typically surgical castration under anesthesia, with removal of one or both testes through a flank or scrotal incision. Modern veterinary practice emphasizes asepsis, analgesia, and postoperative care; recovery usually takes a week or two with limited activity. In some regions or situations, alternative approaches such as less invasive techniques may be used, but surgical castration remains the standard.

Castration reduces testosterone-driven behaviors such as aggression and sexual mounting, often resulting in a calmer, more trainable animal. Physical growth is not significantly altered by gelding, though body condition and muscle development may require adjustments in diet and exercise.

Geldings are common in sport, riding, and work contexts where predictable temperament is valued. They are widely used for general riding and competing because they cannot sire offspring, which simplifies breeding management in many settings.

Risks include surgical complications, infection, and swelling; welfare considerations emphasize proper anesthesia, analgesia, and postoperative monitoring and care to minimize pain and stress. Overall, gelding is a routine veterinary procedure with well-established practices in contemporary equine care.