Castration is a common surgical procedure in male llamas and is easily perf
ormed in standing or recumbent animals. Because early castration may be lin
ked to orthopedic abnormalities, the procedure is usually delayed until the
llama is 18 to 24 months of age. Tetanus prophylaxis is a vital part of pr
eventive health care in all llamas, especially after any surgical procedure
. The anatomy of the testicle and the principles for closed castration are
the same as for other species. Postsurgical exercise, wound management, and
patient monitoring are important to a successful outcome.