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 Nevada, cockfighting is illegal and is considered a serious offense. Under Nevada law, cockfighting falls under the category of animal cruelty and is addressed in the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS). Specifically, NRS 574.100 prohibits instigating, or causing an animal to fight with another animal for amusement or gain. Additionally, NRS 574.060 and 574.070 address the mistreatment of animals, which can encompass activities related to cockfighting, such as owning, training, or possessing cocks for fighting. The possession of cockfighting implements is also illegal. Penalties for engaging in or being associated with cockfighting activities can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense and whether it is a first or subsequent violation. It's important to note that these laws are subject to change, and an attorney can provide the most current legal advice regarding cockfighting and related offenses in Nevada.