Cosmetic Dehorning in Goats

Objective — This article describes a technique using primary closure when dehorning goats, and report the results of 22 cases.
Study Design — Medical records of goats that had cosmetic dehorning were reviewed.
Animals or Sample Population — Twenty-two goats.
Methods — The medical records of 22 goats, not previously dehorned by other methods, that were cosmetically dehorned between January 1988 and September 1995 were reviewed. Data retrieved from the medical record included age, breed, sex, surgical technique used for dehorning, and any complications that occurred after surgery. All clients were contacted by telephone to determine the course of postoperative healing for each goat. A surgical technique to remove the horns and close the defect primarily was described.
Results — The mean age of the goats, all male Nubian or Nubian-Spanish cross, was 6.9 months (range, 2 to 24 months). Horn base diameter ranged from approximately 2 to 4 cm. Mean time from surgery until follow-up was 12.9 months (range, 3 to 57 months). All incisions healed by first intention in 10 to 14 days. Clinical signs of sinusitis were not noted, and owners were pleased with the healing time and cosmetic result obtained.
Conclusions — Primary closure of skin defects after dehorning of goats can be achieved with minimal postoperative care and excellent cosmetic appearance.
Clinical Relevance — Primary closure after dehorning in mature goats reduces aftercare.