12 
farmers’ BULLETIN 849. 
(lition caused by air gathering under and puffing out the skin near the 
wound. When observed it can be readily relieved by pricking the 
skin with a needle or knife and pressing out the air. In about 10 
days or *2 weeks the incision into the body should be entirely healed, 
and, although no special antiseptic methods are employed in the 
operation, blood poisoning or any other trouble seldom results. 
FEEDING CAPONS. 
Capons are usually kept till they are about 10 months old. At this 
time the market is at its best and the birds have made their most 
profitable gains. The feeds used and the methods of feeding vary 
greatly, so much so, indeed, that it is futile to try to give specific 
directions. For several months after the operation a good growing 
ration and not a fattening ration is required. It may consist of 
whole grains, ground grains, or a combination of the two. as each 
feeder finds most profitable and best suited to his locality. As with 
other poultry, variety must be given for best results. Late in the 
fall, when the capons have no pasture, green feed, such as cut clover 
or vegetables, should be provided. A somewhat more fattening ra¬ 
tion than that required for laying hens seems to give good results. 
As capons are not usually marketed before Christmas or the first of 
.January they have to be housed during the late fall and early winter. 
Because of their quiet disposition they stand crowding quite well and 
have been successfully housed with only 2 or 3 square feet of floor 
I’m. 7.—Spreader in place. The testicle can be observed lying between the jaws of the 
spreader. 
