A cock is the male of any type of domestic fowl, and cockfighting is a blood sport in which two (or more) cocks are placed in a ring or confined area and encouraged to attack or fight each other. Cockfighting is illegal in all 50 states and the District of Columbia—but remains legal in Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Although cockfighting is illegal in all states, the potential punishment for the crime varies from state to state. In thirteen states, a first offense charge of cockfighting is a misdemeanor—including Alabama, California, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, and West Virginia. But in California, Louisiana, and New Mexico, second, third, and subsequent offenses may be prosecuted as felonies.

And some states also prohibit possession of cockfighting tools (implements) such as a gaff or slasher; ownership and training of cocks for the purpose of cockfighting; and attending cockfighting events.
Cockfighting laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—and usually in the state’s penal or criminal code.

In Oregon, cockfighting is illegal and considered a serious crime. Under Oregon law, cockfighting is classified as animal fighting and is addressed in ORS 167.315 to 167.333. Engaging in animal fighting, which includes cockfighting, is a Class C felony. This extends not only to those who participate in the fighting but also to individuals who breed, train, or own animals for fighting. Additionally, Oregon law prohibits the possession of cockfighting implements, such as gaffs or slashers, with the intent to engage in animal fighting. The state also criminalizes attending an animal fighting event as a spectator, which is a Class A misdemeanor. The penalties for these offenses can include fines, imprisonment, or both. Oregon's strong stance against cockfighting reflects the broader national trend of treating animal fighting as a significant criminal activity.