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 Montana (MT), cockfighting is illegal and considered a serious offense. The state's laws classify cockfighting as animal cruelty, which is addressed under Montana Code Annotated 45-8-211. According to this statute, a person commits the offense of cruelty to animals if they knowingly or negligently subject an animal to mistreatment or neglect by overworking, beating, tormenting, or otherwise abusing the animal, or if they carry out any form of animal fighting. The law in Montana not only prohibits engaging in cockfighting but also the possession of cockfighting implements, and the training and ownership of cocks for the purpose of fighting. The penalties for engaging in cockfighting can include fines, imprisonment, or both, and the severity of the punishment can vary depending on the nature of the offense and whether it is a first or subsequent violation. Additionally, attending cockfighting events is also illegal in Montana. It's important for individuals to consult with an attorney for specific legal advice and to understand the full scope of legal consequences associated with cockfighting in Montana.