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 Florida, cockfighting is strictly prohibited under state law. It is considered a third-degree felony for any person to bait, fight, or otherwise use any wild or domestic animal for the purpose of fighting or baiting. This includes not only the act of cockfighting itself but also the ownership, possession, keeping, or training of any animal for the purpose of animal fighting. Additionally, Florida law prohibits the attendance of animal fights, making it a misdemeanor for anyone to knowingly attend the fighting or baiting of any animal. The possession of cockfighting tools and implements is also illegal. Florida's laws on animal fighting are comprehensive and aim to prevent all aspects of this cruel activity, reflecting a strong stance against animal cruelty and the practice of cockfighting.