The ruling on castrating animals for the sake of benefit, and does the ruling apply to slaves?

The questioner:
The caller from Riyadh has two questions. In the first, he asks: Is it permissible to castrate animals, such as livestock and others? And is it true that slaves were castrated in the past?

The Shaykh:
Castrating animals is permissible out of need if it results in a benefit for the growth of the animal intended for slaughter and the consumption of its meat, such as sheep and others. So there is no harm in castration for the sake of the resulting benefit. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) sacrificed two castrated rams, meaning castrated males. So this is permissible for the sake of the benefit, but with gentleness toward the animal during castration, following the easiest and most comfortable method for it. Yes, is there a remaining question?

The questioner:
He asks: Is it true that slaves were castrated in the past?

The Shaykh:
Allah knows best. We know nothing about that. Yes.

The questioner:
Has nothing been established regarding it?

The Shaykh:
Allah knows best. It is said that this is the case, this is what is said, but it has not been established from reliable sources that this thing occurred. Yes.

The questioner:
It is rumored among the general public that they were castrated to ensure the safety of women.

The Shaykh:
It may have happened, it may have happened among some of them, so Allah knows best. Yes.