Production of Capons by the Use of SyntheticŒstrogens

Abstract

IN view of the ready availability and cheapness of synthetic œstrogens, it was considered that there existed a real possibility of production of capons, or of partially neutered table poultry, with many of the desirable attributes of capons, by the use of stilbœstrol without any of the disadvantages (operative mortality and growth set-backs, skilled labour expenses, etc.) attendant upon normal capon production. Work upon this subject in the United States^1,2 has largely centred upon subcutaneous implantation of pellets of synthetic œstrogen (stilbœstrol), but success has also attended the use of diethylstilbœstrol dimethyl ether per os^3,4. The use of stilbœstrol in quantities up to 23 mgm./lb. of feed was stated³ to be insufficient for practical use in fattening.