1
|
Nian H, Ding S, Feng Y, Liu H, Li J, Li X, Zhang R, Bao J. Effect of Noise and Music on Neurotransmitters in the Amygdala: The Role Auditory Stimuli Play in Emotion Regulation. Metabolites 2023; 13:928. [PMID: 37623873 PMCID: PMC10456833 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13080928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress caused by noise is becoming widespread globally. Noise may lead to deafness, endocrine disorders, neurological diseases, and a decline in mental health. The mechanism behind noise-induced neurodevelopmental abnormalities is unclear, but apoptosis and pro-inflammatory signals may play an important role. In this study, weaned piglets were used as a model to explore noise-induced neurodevelopmental abnormalities. We hypothesized that long-term noise exposure would induce anxiety and cause acute stress, exhibited by alterations in neurotransmission in the amygdala. A total of 72 hybrid piglets (Large White × Duroc × Min Pig) were randomly divided into three groups, including noise (exposed to mechanical noise, 80-85 dB), control (blank, exposed to natural background sound, <40 dB), and music (positive control, exposed to Mozart K.448, 60-70 dB) groups. The piglets were exposed to 6 h of auditory noise daily (10:00-16:00) for 28 days. Compared with the control group, piglets exposed to noise showed more aggressive behavior. The expression of Caspase3, Caspase9, Bax, NF-κB (p56), TLR4, MYD88, I κ B α, IL-1 β, TNF-α, and IL-12RB2 was significantly upregulated in the amygdala, while the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, CAT, and SOD was downregulated in piglets in the noise group. Cell death occurred, and numerous inflammatory cells accumulated in the amygdala of piglets in the noise group. Targeted metabolomics showed that the content of inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA was higher in the amygdala of piglets in the noise group. Compared with the noise group, piglets in the music group displayed more positive emotion-related behaviors. Compared with the noise group, the expression of genes related to apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative damage was lower in the music group. Cells of the amygdala in the music group were also of normal morphology. Our results show that noise-induced stress causes apoptosis and neuroinflammation in the amygdala and induces anxiety during the early neonatal neural development of piglets. In contrast, to some extent, music alleviates noise-induced anxiety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haoyang Nian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Mucai Street No. 59, Harbin 150030, China
- Key Laboratory of Swine Facilities Engineering, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Changjiang Road No. 600, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Susu Ding
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Mucai Street No. 59, Harbin 150030, China
- Key Laboratory of Swine Facilities Engineering, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Changjiang Road No. 600, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Yanru Feng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Mucai Street No. 59, Harbin 150030, China
- Key Laboratory of Swine Facilities Engineering, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Changjiang Road No. 600, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Honggui Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Mucai Street No. 59, Harbin 150030, China
- Key Laboratory of Swine Facilities Engineering, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Changjiang Road No. 600, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jianhong Li
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Mucai Street No. 59, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Xiang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Mucai Street No. 59, Harbin 150030, China
- Key Laboratory of Swine Facilities Engineering, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Changjiang Road No. 600, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Runxiang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Mucai Street No. 59, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jun Bao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Mucai Street No. 59, Harbin 150030, China
- Key Laboratory of Swine Facilities Engineering, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Changjiang Road No. 600, Harbin 150030, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bučková K, Muns R, Cerón J, Kyriazakis I. Consequences of timing of organic enrichment provision on pig performance, health and stress resilience after weaning and regrouping. Animal 2022; 16:100637. [PMID: 36183434 PMCID: PMC9596380 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2022.100637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We tested fodder beet and jute bags as novel enrichment for pigs in slatted systems. We investigated if enrichment mattered more when offered at weaner or finisher stage. Weaner enrichment improved ear lesions and performance at both stages. Enrichment provision throughout reduced finisher body lesions. Fodder beet and jute bags could be feasible enrichment for pigs in slatted systems.
Most pigs in slatted systems are provided with enrichment meeting only minimum legal requirements. We aimed to explore the effects of a novel enrichment treatment consisting of daily provided fodder beet and jute bags for pigs in slatted systems, and investigate the timing of enrichment provision on performance, health and stress resilience. We used 280 weaners allocated into standard (S, meeting only legal requirements consisting of a plastic toy and softwood) or enriched (E) treatment (n = 14 groups/treatment). At regrouping during the grower to finisher transition, pigs were either kept in the same treatment (EE, SS) or switched from enriched to standard (ES) and vice versa (SE); each treatment was replicated on five groups. Pigs were weighted at the start and end of weaner, and finisher stage, and feed intake was recorded. Occurrence of scouring, respiratory problems, locomotor disorders, tail, ear, and body lesions were recorded twice a week. Ten males per treatment were sampled for saliva on days 1, 2 and 4, either postweaning or after the housing switch. Saliva samples were analysed for cortisol, alpha-amylase, haptoglobin (Hp), and adenosine deaminase. Additionally, these pigs were sampled for hair at the start and end of weaner, and end of finisher stage to analyse for hair cortisol and cortisone. We found that E weaners consumed less feed (P = 0.04), had better FCR (feed conversion ratio, P = 0.03) and less ear lesions for two weeks postweaning (P = 0.04), and tended to have lower occurrence of scouring (P = 0.07) and higher salivary cortisol concentrations (P = 0.09) than S weaners. Effects of enrichment treatment during weaner stage on performance were carried through to finisher stage, with EE and ES pigs having better FCR (P = 0.0009) and higher BW (P = 0.0001) compared to SS and SE pigs. E treatment during finisher stage decreased feed intake (P = 0.04) and tended to decrease Hp levels (P = 0.07). There was a significant interaction between enrichment treatments during weaner and finisher stages on finisher body lesions: EE finishers had less lesions than SS, ES, and SE finishers (P = 0.04). There were no other significant differences caused either by enrichment treatment during weaner/finisher stage or their interaction. We conclude that the novel enrichment applied at weaner stage had positive effects on ear lesions and performance, which were carried through to finisher stage. Body lesions were affected by its application during both stages, with finishers receiving the enrichment treatment throughout (EE) having reduced body lesions than the rest of the finishers.
Collapse
|
3
|
Parois SP, Van Der Zande LE, Knol EF, Kemp B, Rodenburg TB, Bolhuis JE. Effects of a Multi-Suckling System Combined With Enriched Housing Post-Weaning on Response and Cognitive Resilience to Isolation. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:868149. [PMID: 35478601 PMCID: PMC9035994 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.868149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Improving welfare is still a critical issue in pig husbandry. Upgrades of the housing environment seem to be a promising solution to optimise resilience as a whole, and therefore improve animal welfare. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of an alternative housing system to enhance cognitive resilience and also to promote the pigs' welfare. A total of 96 piglets from two contrasted housing systems [alternative housing system (AHS) vs. conventional system (CONV)] was used. The major upgrades of the alternative system were multi-litter housing during lactation, delayed weaning, extra space allowance, and environmental enrichment from birth onwards. To estimate welfare, weight, and feed intake (as a general indicator of performances), the tear staining area (as a chronic stress indicator), behavioural postures, heart rate traits, and saliva cortisol concentration were measured over a 21 h-isolation. To assess cognitive resilience, the pigs were subjected to a maze with a social reward both before and after the isolation challenge and indicators of cognitive abilities were followed. The AHS pigs showed lower cortisol levels and tear staining area before the challenge, demonstrating overall better welfare due to the alternative housing conditions. During the challenge, AHS pigs had a lower heart rate, higher heart rate variability, and higher vagal activity than the CONV pigs, which might indicate a reduced sensitivity to the stressor. AHS pigs appeared to have a better long-term memory tested in a maze. Providing social and environmental enrichments, that fit the satisfaction of the essential needs of the pigs better, appears to be beneficial for pig welfare as a whole. Its effects on cognitive resilience still need to be proven.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Severine P. Parois
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- Epidemiology Health and Welfare Research Unit, Ploufragan-Plouzané-Niort Laboratory, French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (ANSES), Ploufragan, France
- *Correspondence: Severine P. Parois
| | | | | | - Bas Kemp
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - T. Bas Rodenburg
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- Animals in Science and Society, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - J. Elizabeth Bolhuis
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Miller LJ, Lauderdale LK, Walsh MT, Bryant JL, Mitchell KA, Granger DA, Mellen JD. Reference intervals and values for fecal cortisol, aldosterone, and the ratio of cortisol to dehydroepiandrosterone metabolites in four species of cetaceans. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250331. [PMID: 34460862 PMCID: PMC8404979 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The goal of the current study was to create reference intervals and values for several common and one potential novel physiological indicators of animal welfare for four species of cetaceans. The subjects included 189 bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), 27 Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus), eight Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens), and 13 beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) at Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and/or Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited facilities. During two sampling time periods between July and November of 2018 and between January and April of 2019, fecal samples were collected weekly for five weeks from all animals. Samples were processed and analyzed using enzyme immunoassay for fecal cortisol, aldosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) metabolites. Linear mixed models were used to examine demographic and time factors impacting hormone metabolite concentrations. Age, sex, and time of year were all significant predictors for some of the models (p < 0.01). An iOS mobile application ZooPhysioTrak was created for easy access to species-specific reference intervals and values accounting for significant predictors. For facilities without access to this application, additional reference intervals and values were constructed without accounting for significant predictors. Information gained from this study and the use of the application can provide reference intervals and values to make informed management decisions for cetaceans in zoological facilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lance J. Miller
- Conservation Science and Animal Welfare Research, Chicago Zoological Society–Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Lisa K. Lauderdale
- Conservation Science and Animal Welfare Research, Chicago Zoological Society–Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Michael T. Walsh
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic & Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States of America
| | - Jocelyn L. Bryant
- Conservation Science and Animal Welfare Research, Chicago Zoological Society–Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Kevin A. Mitchell
- Conservation Science and Animal Welfare Research, Chicago Zoological Society–Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Douglas A. Granger
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Salivary Bioscience Research, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States of America
| | - Jill D. Mellen
- Biology Department, Portland State University, Portland, OR, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhao X, Mohammed R, Tran H, Erickson M, Kentner AC. Poly (I:C)-induced maternal immune activation modifies ventral hippocampal regulation of stress reactivity: prevention by environmental enrichment. Brain Behav Immun 2021; 95:203-215. [PMID: 33766701 PMCID: PMC8187276 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental enrichment (EE) has been successfully implemented in human rehabilitation settings. However, the mechanisms underlying its success are not understood. Incorporating components of EE protocols into our animal models allows for the exploration of these mechanisms and their role in mitigation. Using a mouse model of maternal immune activation (MIA), the present study explored disruptions in social behavior and associated hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis functioning, and whether a supportive environment could prevent these effects. We show that prenatal immune activation of toll-like receptor 3, by the viral mimetic polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)), led to disrupted maternal care in that dams built poorer quality nests, an effect corrected by EE housing. Standard housed male and female MIA mice engaged in higher rates of repetitive rearing and had lower levels of social interaction, alongside sex-specific expression of several ventral hippocampal neural stress markers. Moreover, MIA males had delayed recovery of plasma corticosterone in response to a novel social encounter. Enrichment housing, likely mediated by improved maternal care, protected against these MIA-induced effects. We also evaluated c-Fos immunoreactivity associated with the novel social experience and found MIA to decrease neural activation in the dentate gyrus. Activation in the hypothalamus was blunted in EE housed animals, suggesting that the putative circuits modulating social behaviors may be different between standard and complex housing environments. These data demonstrate that augmentation of the environment supports parental care and offspring safety/security, which can offset effects of early health adversity by buffering HPA axis dysregulation. Our findings provide further evidence for the viability of EE interventions in maternal and pediatric settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Amanda C. Kentner
- Corresponding author: Amanda Kentner, , Office #617-274-3360, Fax # 617-732-2959
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Weller JE, Turner SP, Futro A, Donbavand J, Brims M, Arnott G. The influence of early life socialisation on cognition in the domestic pig (Sus scrofa domestica). Sci Rep 2020; 10:19077. [PMID: 33154415 PMCID: PMC7644636 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76110-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, the benefits of early-life socialisation on later-life social development have been reported in pigs. Here we investigated the effect of pre-weaning socialisation on the later-life cognitive ability of pigs using a range of techniques. Pre-weaning, 101 piglets had access to a neighbouring pen from ~ 15 days of age and interacted with non-littermates (socialised). An additional 89 piglets remained isolated within their home pen (controls). After weaning, 100 individuals were selected for a range of cognitive tests including a food reward T-maze test, reversal learning T-maze test, a social preference T-maze test, and a puzzle box test. Performance during the food reward test was not influenced by treatment. Treatment effected improvement over the course of the reversal learning test, with controls showing a significant decrease in trial duration after the first two trials. During the social preference test, socialised pigs spent significantly more time in the presence of larger stimulus pigs than controls and were quicker to leave the middle of the maze, suggesting improved social skills. Neither sex nor treatment was observed to influence pig's ability to solve the puzzle box. Thus, overall, evidence from the social preference test suggests an effect of pre-weaning socialisation on aspects of social cognitive development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E Weller
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK.
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
| | - Simon P Turner
- Animal Behaviour & Welfare, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Edinburgh, UK
| | - Agnieszka Futro
- Animal Behaviour & Welfare, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jo Donbavand
- Animal Behaviour & Welfare, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Edinburgh, UK
| | - Mark Brims
- Animal Behaviour & Welfare, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Edinburgh, UK
| | - Gareth Arnott
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Neurobiology of environmental enrichment in pigs: hanges in monoaminergic neurotransmitters in several brain areas and in the hippocampal proteome. J Proteomics 2020; 229:103943. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2020.103943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
|
8
|
Whitham JC, Bryant JL, Miller LJ. Beyond Glucocorticoids: Integrating Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) into Animal Welfare Research. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10081381. [PMID: 32784884 PMCID: PMC7459918 DOI: 10.3390/ani10081381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal welfare researchers are committed to identifying novel measures for enhancing the quality of life of individual animals. Recently, welfare scientists have emphasized the need for tracking multiple indicators of an animal's behavioral, emotional and mental health. Researchers are currently focused on integrating non-invasive physiological biomarkers to gain insight into an individual's welfare status. Most commonly, the animal welfare community has analyzed glucocorticoid hormones and their metabolites as a measure of stress. While glucocorticoids provide valuable information about hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity, there are limitations to utilizing these hormones as the sole measure of long-term stress and welfare. Other biomarkers, such as dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulfate ester-collectively referred to as DHEA(S)-help provide a more complete picture of HPA activity. DHEA(S) counteracts the effects glucocorticoids by having anti-aging, immune-enhancing and neuroprotective properties. Recent studies have examined the ratio of glucocorticoids to DHEA(S) as a way to better understand how the HPA axis is functioning. There is evidence that this ratio serves as an indicator of immune function, mental health, cognitive performance and overall welfare. We review studies that employed the glucocorticoid:DHEA(S) ratio, outline methodological considerations and discuss how researchers can integrate glucocorticoids, DHEA(S) and the glucocorticoid:DHEA(S) ratio into welfare assessments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica C. Whitham
- Chicago Zoological Society-Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +01-708-288-3829
| | | | - Lance J. Miller
- Chicago Zoological Society-Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Luo L, Reimert I, Middelkoop A, Kemp B, Bolhuis JE. Effects of Early and Current Environmental Enrichment on Behavior and Growth in Pigs. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:268. [PMID: 32582773 PMCID: PMC7287207 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Enriched environments are known to beneficially affect the behavior of pigs, as compared with barren pens. The influence of enrichment may, however, depend on pigs' early life housing experiences. The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term effects of early and later life environmental enrichment on behavior and growth in pigs with different coping styles. Pigs were housed in either barren pens or in larger pens enriched with rooting substrates from birth, and half of them experienced a housing switch, i.e., a loss or gain of enrichment, at 7 weeks of age, creating four treatment groups. Home pen behavior and body weight were recorded until 19 weeks of age. Pigs were classified as reactive or proactive based on a backtest at 2 weeks of age. Enrichment increased time spent exploring, chewing, and play and decreased oral manipulation of penmates and pen-directed exploring and chewing. Behavior of pigs that switched from barren to enriched pens or vice versa reflected not only their actual environment, but also their early life housing. As early and later life enrichment affected most behaviors in opposite directions, effects of enrichment, or lack thereof, after the switch were more pronounced in pigs that had experienced a different early life condition. For instance, pigs experiencing an upgrade from barren to enriched pens seemed to "catch-up" by showing more exploration and play. Conversely, pigs exposed to a downgrade displayed more oral manipulation of penmates than ones kept barren throughout, which particularly held for pigs with a reactive coping style. Effects of early life and current housing on several other behaviors depended on coping style too. Pigs housed in enriched conditions appeared better able to cope with weaning than barren housed pigs, as they gained more weight and had higher feed intake post-weaning. Barren housed pigs had a lower body weight than enriched pigs just before the switch, after which growth was mainly determined by actual housing, with enriched kept pigs having a higher feed intake and body weight. Thus, not only current housing conditions, but also a (mis)match with the early life environment may affect behavior and growth of pigs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Luo
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Inonge Reimert
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Anouschka Middelkoop
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Bas Kemp
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - J Elizabeth Bolhuis
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Enrichment use in finishing pigs and its relationship with damaging behaviours: Comparing three wood species and a rubber floor toy. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2020.104944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
11
|
Zhao X, Rondón-Ortiz AN, Lima EP, Puracchio M, Roderick RC, Kentner AC. Therapeutic efficacy of environmental enrichment on behavioral, endocrine, and synaptic alterations in an animal model of maternal immune activation. Brain Behav Immun Health 2020; 3. [PMID: 32368757 PMCID: PMC7197879 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2020.100043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal immune activation (MIA) has been identified as a significant risk factor for several neurodevelopmental disorders. We have previously demonstrated that postpubertal environmental enrichment (EE) rescues and promotes resiliency against MIA in male rats. Importantly, EE protocols have demonstrated clinical relevancy in human rehabilitation settings. Applying some of the elements of these EE protocols (e.g. social, physical, cognitive stimulation) to animal models of health and disease allows for the exploration of the mechanisms that underlie their success. Here, using a MIA model, we further investigate the rehabilitative potential of complex environments with a focus on female animals. Additionally, we expand upon some of our previous work by exploring genetic markers of synaptic plasticity and stress throughout several brain regions of both sexes. In the current study, standard housed female Sprague-Dawley rats were challenged with either the inflammatory endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 100 μg/kg) or saline (equivolume) on gestational day 15. On postnatal day 50, male and female offspring were randomized into one of three conditions that differed in terms of cage size, number of cage mates (social stimulation) and enrichment materials. Spatial discrimination ability and social behavior were assessed six weeks later. Similar to our previously published work in males, our results revealed that a single LPS injection during mid gestation disrupted spatial discrimination ability in female rats. Postpubertal EE rescued this disruption. On the endocrine level, EE dampened elevations in plasma corticosterone that followed MIA, which may mediate EE's rehabilitative effects in female offspring. Within the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, and hypothalamus, MIA and EE altered the mRNA expression of several genes associated with resiliency and synaptic plasticity in both sexes. Overall, our findings provide further evidence that EE may serve as a therapeutic intervention for MIA-induced behavioral and cognitive deficits. Moreover, we identify some sexually dimorphic molecular mechanisms that may underlie these impairments and their rescue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhao
- School of Arts & Sciences, Health Psychology Program, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston Massachusetts, United States 02115
| | - Alejandro N Rondón-Ortiz
- School of Arts & Sciences, Health Psychology Program, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston Massachusetts, United States 02115
| | - Erika P Lima
- School of Arts & Sciences, Health Psychology Program, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston Massachusetts, United States 02115
| | - Madeline Puracchio
- School of Arts & Sciences, Health Psychology Program, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston Massachusetts, United States 02115
| | - Ryland C Roderick
- School of Arts & Sciences, Health Psychology Program, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston Massachusetts, United States 02115
| | - Amanda C Kentner
- School of Arts & Sciences, Health Psychology Program, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston Massachusetts, United States 02115
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Menneson S, Ménicot S, Ferret-Bernard S, Guérin S, Romé V, Le Normand L, Randuineau G, Gambarota G, Noirot V, Etienne P, Coquery N, Val-Laillet D. Validation of a Psychosocial Chronic Stress Model in the Pig Using a Multidisciplinary Approach at the Gut-Brain and Behavior Levels. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:161. [PMID: 31379533 PMCID: PMC6646532 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychological chronic stress is an important risk factor for major depressive disorder, of which consequences have been widely studied in rodent models. This work aimed at describing a pig model of chronic stress based on social isolation, environmental impoverishment and unpredictability. Three groups of animals of both sexes were constituted. Two were exposed to the psychosocial stressors while receiving (SF, n = 12) or not (SC, n = 22) the antidepressant fluoxetine, and a third group (NSC, n = 22) remained unstressed. Animals were observed in home pens and during dedicated tests to assess resignation and anxiety-like behaviors. Brain structure and function were evaluated via proton MRS and fMRI. Hippocampal molecular biology and immunodetection of cellular proliferation (Ki67+) and neuron maturation (DCX+) in the dentate gyrus were also performed. Salivary cortisol, fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and various plasmatic and intestinal biomarkers were analyzed. Compared to NSC, SC animals showed more resignation (p = 0.019) and had a higher level of salivary cortisol (p = 0.020). SC brain responses to stimulation by a novel odor were lower, similarly to their hippocampal neuronal density (p = 0.015), cellular proliferation (p = 0.030), and hippocampal levels of BDNF and 5-HT1AR (p = 0.056 and p = 0.007, respectively). However, the number of DCX+ cells was higher in the ventral dentate gyrus in this group (p = 0.025). In addition, HOMA-IR was also higher (p < 0.001) and microbiota fermentation activity was lower (SCFAs, SC/NSC: p < 0.01) in SC animals. Fluoxetine partially or totally reversed several of these effects. Exposure to psychosocial stressors in the pig model induced effects consistent with the human and rodent literature, including resignation behavior and alterations of the HPA axis and hippocampus. This model opens the way to innovative translational research exploring the mechanisms of chronic stress and testing intervention strategies with good face validity related to human.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Menneson
- INRA, INSERM, Univ Rennes, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, NuMeCan, Rennes, France.,Phodé, Terssac, France
| | - Samuel Ménicot
- INRA, INSERM, Univ Rennes, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, NuMeCan, Rennes, France
| | | | - Sylvie Guérin
- INRA, INSERM, Univ Rennes, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, NuMeCan, Rennes, France
| | - Véronique Romé
- INRA, INSERM, Univ Rennes, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, NuMeCan, Rennes, France
| | - Laurence Le Normand
- INRA, INSERM, Univ Rennes, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, NuMeCan, Rennes, France
| | - Gwénaëlle Randuineau
- INRA, INSERM, Univ Rennes, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, NuMeCan, Rennes, France
| | | | | | | | - Nicolas Coquery
- INRA, INSERM, Univ Rennes, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, NuMeCan, Rennes, France
| | - David Val-Laillet
- INRA, INSERM, Univ Rennes, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, NuMeCan, Rennes, France
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rocha LM, Devillers N, Maldague X, Kabemba FZ, Fleuret J, Guay F, Faucitano L. Validation of Anatomical Sites for the Measurement of Infrared Body Surface Temperature Variation in Response to Handling and Transport. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:E425. [PMID: 31284574 PMCID: PMC6680931 DOI: 10.3390/ani9070425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed at validating the anatomical sites for the measurement of infrared (IR) body surface temperature as a tool to monitor the pigs' response to handling and transport stress. The selected anatomical sites were the neck (infrared neck temperature-IRNT), rump (infrared rump temperature-IRRT), orbital (infrared orbital temperature-IROT) and behind ears (infrared behind ears temperature-IRBET) regions. A total of 120 pigs were handled from the finishing pen to the loading dock through a handling test course. Two handling types (gentle vs. rough) and number of laps (1 vs. 3) were applied according to a 2 × 2 factorial design. After loading, pigs were transported for 40 min and returned to their home pens. Animal behavior, heart rate, rectal temperature and salivary cortisol concentration were measured for validation. Increased IR body temperature, heart rate and salivary cortisol levels were observed in response to rough handling and longer distance walk (P < 0.05 for all). The greatest correlations were found between IROT and IRBET temperatures and salivary cortisol concentration at the end of the handling test (r = 0.49 and r = 0.50, respectively; P < 0.001 for both). Therefore, IR pig's head surface temperature may be useful for a comprehensive assessment of the physiological response to handling and transport stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luiene M Rocha
- Sherbrooke Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2000 College Street, Sherbrooke, QC J1M 0C8, Canada.
| | - Nicolas Devillers
- Sherbrooke Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2000 College Street, Sherbrooke, QC J1M 0C8, Canada
| | - Xavier Maldague
- Département de génie électrique, Université Laval, 2325 Rue de l'Université, Quebec, QC G1V A06, Canada
| | - Fidèle Z Kabemba
- Sherbrooke Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2000 College Street, Sherbrooke, QC J1M 0C8, Canada
- Département des sciences animales, Université Laval, 2425 Rue de l'Agriculture, Quebec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Julien Fleuret
- Département de génie électrique, Université Laval, 2325 Rue de l'Université, Quebec, QC G1V A06, Canada
| | - Fréderic Guay
- Département des sciences animales, Université Laval, 2425 Rue de l'Agriculture, Quebec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Luigi Faucitano
- Sherbrooke Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2000 College Street, Sherbrooke, QC J1M 0C8, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
The Effects of Environmental Enrichment on the Physiology, Behaviour, Productivity and Meat Quality of Pigs Raised in a Hot Climate. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9050235. [PMID: 31086082 PMCID: PMC6563062 DOI: 10.3390/ani9050235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary European Union (EU) legislation states that the routine tail docking of pigs should not be carried out and that manipulable materials should be made available to all pigs to prevent tail biting and allow them to behave naturally. However, between 90 and 95% of pigs within the EU still have their tails docked to avoid the risk of tail biting. Farmers say they require information tailored to their particular production systems before they abandon this practice. In this study, four types of enrichment materials used in Spanish pig fattening production systems are compared. Most of these systems have fully slatted floors and high external temperatures for considerable periods of the year. The effects of chains (the control group), wood, paper or straw in a rack on the behaviour, health/physiology, performance and meat and carcass quality are evaluated. Straw in a rack was found to be the best material to meet the behavioural needs of pigs, whereas paper met the criteria of being manipulable, but only for a short period. To avoid the risk of blockages in the slurry system, there are some practical issues to consider and improvements to be made to the design of the rack for providing straw used in this study. Abstract Some positive effects regarding the use of enrichment material on the stimulation of pig exploration and a reduction in redirected behaviour was reported. This study aims to evaluate the effects of four enrichment materials on the behaviour, physiology/health, performance and carcass and meat quality in pigs kept in Spanish production conditions. Ninety-six male pigs (six pigs/pen) ranging from 70 to 170 days old were used. Chains were used for the control group (CH), and wooden logs (W), straw in a rack (S) or paper (P) were also used. The pigs were subjected to two pre-slaughter treatments: 0 or 12 h of fasting. Their behaviour was observed for 12 weeks using scan and focal sampling. Samples of the Neutrophil: Lymphocyte (N:L) ratio and lactate were obtained from the pigs at 66 and 170 days old. Saliva samples for Chromogranin-A (CgA) were obtained at 67, 128, 164 and 170 days old. The weight, skin lesions and feed intake of the pigs were recorded. S triggered more exploratory behaviour than W and CH (P < 0.001). Skin lesions and redirected behaviour were lower for pigs with S (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). The pigs offered S presented lower CgA after no fasting than pigs with P or CH (P = 0.055). Lactate was higher in pigs with W and CH treatments, regardless of fasting (P < 0.05). The N:L ratio increased over time (P < 0.05). No other significant effects were found. Overall, straw in a rack was the enrichment material that enhanced pig inherent behaviour.
Collapse
|
15
|
Mkwanazi MV, Kanengoni AT, Chimonyo M. Interaction effects of pen environment and sex on behavior, skin lesions and physiology of Windsnyer pigs. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2019; 32:452-458. [PMID: 30840791 PMCID: PMC6409480 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.17.0417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective The study was carried to determine the interaction effects of pen enrichment and sex on behavioral activities, skin lesions and physiology of Windsnyer pigs. Methods Forty-eight growing Windsnyer pigs of both sex, with an average initial body weight of 21.6 (±9.01) kg were used. Four pigs were randomly assigned to either enriched or barren pens at a stocking density of 0.35 m2/pig. Enriched pens contained 2 L bottles filled with stones and suspended at head level on ropes stretching across the pens. In addition, two plastic balls (90 mm in diameter) and 500 mL bottles (235 mm long) were placed on the floor of each enriched pen. Results Pigs in barren environments had higher heart rates (p<0.001) than those in enriched pens. There was an interaction of pen environment and sex on rectal temperature (p<0.001). Females in enriched pens had higher rectal temperatures (p<0.05) than females in barren pens. There was no interaction of pen environment and sex on time spent eating and drinking (p>0.05). Time spent bullying was influenced (p<0.05) by pen environment and sex. Female pigs in barren environment spent more time on bullying than females in enriched pens. There was an interaction of pen environment and sex on time spent lying down and walking (p<0.05). Female pigs in enriched pens spent more time lying down than females in barren pens. Males in barren pens spent more time walking than males in enriched pens while no effect of pen environment was observed in females. There was an interaction of pen environment and sex on the number of skin lesions in the head, neck and shoulder region and other parts of the body (p<0.05). Conclusion It was concluded that pen enrichment reduced the number of skin lesions and anti-social behaviors, especially for female pigs. There is a need, therefore of housing indigenous pigs under confinement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mbusiseni Vusumuzi Mkwanazi
- Animal and Poultry Science, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P Bag X01 Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
| | - Arnold Tapera Kanengoni
- Veterinary Services and Research Development, Joburg Zoo, Private Bag X 13, Parkview 2122, South Africa.,College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida Campus, Florida 1709, South Africa
| | - Michael Chimonyo
- Animal and Poultry Science, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P Bag X01 Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Bezerra B, Silva S, Oliveira A, Silva C, Parente R, Andrade T, Evangelista J, Pinheiro D. Avaliação do estresse e do desempenho de suínos na fase de creche, empregando-se técnicas de enriquecimento ambiental. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-10209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO O enriquecimento ambiental é uma ferramenta importante dentro dos sistemas de produção, a fim de promover o bem-estar e favorecer a saúde dos animais. Portanto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do enriquecimento ambiental sobre o estresse de suínos na fase de creche. Foram utilizados 32 leitões, alojados em granja experimental, distribuídos em quatro grupos (n= 8): corda, corrente, garrafa PET e controle negativo. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas no início e no final do experimento para contagem de leucócitos circulantes e determinação de antioxidantes não enzimáticos, óxido nítrico, malondialdeído, e de saliva para avaliação do cortisol. Foi aplicado etograma e fez-a ganho médio de peso diário e a conversão alimentar. Os parâmetros avaliados no primeiro dia do experimento não variaram entre os grupos (P>0,05). No último dia do experimento, os valores de neutrófilos e da relação neutrófilo/linfócito foram mais elevados nos leitões do grupo corrente, assim como os valores de cortisol salivar (P<0,05). O ácido úrico apresentou-se mais elevado nos leitões do grupo corrente e o malondialdeído (MDA) nos do grupo garrafa (P< 0,05). Os enriquecimentos ambientais estimularam comportamentos positivos nos leitões, tendo a corda se destacado como o mais atrativo. Por outro lado, a corrente apresentou efeito negativo sobre a fisiologia dos animais, gerando estresse, assim como a garrafa, que induziu a peroxidação lipídica e um menor ganho de peso nos leitões.
Collapse
|
17
|
Arroyo L, Valent D, Carreras R, Peña R, Sabrià J, Velarde A, Bassols A. Housing and road transport modify the brain neurotransmitter systems of pigs: Do pigs raised in different conditions cope differently with unknown environments? PLoS One 2019; 14:e0210406. [PMID: 30650149 PMCID: PMC6334955 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
How housing and transport conditions may affect welfare in porcine production is a leading topic in livestock research. This study investigated whether pigs present a different neurological response to management conditions and to ascertain whether pigs living partially outdoors cope differently with road transport-associated stress. Twenty-four female pigs were divided in two groups: one living indoors (ID, n = 12) and the other housed combining indoor conditions with 4 hours per day of outdoor pasture (OD, n = 12). After one month, one set of animals from each housing condition were driven in a truck to the slaughterhouse in low-stress conditions (5 min drive, no mixing groups, soft management, LS group, n = 12) or high-stress conditions (2 hours drive, mixing groups, harsh management, HS group, n = 12). At the slaughterhouse, blood was collected, and the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the hippocampus (HC) dissected. OD pigs had lower serum haptoglobin and increased dopaminergic pathway (DA-system) in the PFC, suggesting that living outdoors increases their wellbeing. HS conditions increased serum creatine kinase (CK) and affected several brain pathways: activation of the noradrenergic (NA-system) and DA -system in the PFC and the activation of the DA-system and an increase in c-Fos as well as a decrease in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the HC. The serotonergic system (5-HT-system) was mildly altered in both areas. There was an interaction between housing and transport in serum NA and the DA-system in the HC, indicating that living conditions affected the response to stress. Multivariate analysis was able to discriminate the four animal groups. In conclusion, this work indicates that housing conditions and road transport markedly modifies the neurophysiology of pigs, and suggests that animals raised partially outdoors respond differently to transport-associated stress than animals raised indoors, indicating that they cope differently with unknown environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Arroyo
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Daniel Valent
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Ricard Carreras
- IRTA, Animal Welfare Subprogram, Veïnat de Sies, s/n, Monells, Spain
| | - Raquel Peña
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
- Servei de Bioquímica Clínica Veterinària, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Josefa Sabrià
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Facultat de Medicina, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Antonio Velarde
- IRTA, Animal Welfare Subprogram, Veïnat de Sies, s/n, Monells, Spain
| | - Anna Bassols
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mkwanazi MV, Ncobela CN, Kanengoni AT, Chimonyo M. Effects of environmental enrichment on behaviour, physiology and performance of pigs - A review. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2019; 32:1-13. [PMID: 28728387 PMCID: PMC6325398 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.17.0138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This paper aims to critically analyse and synthesise existing knowledge concerning the use of environmental enrichment and its effect on behavior, physiology and performance of pigs housed in intensive production systems. The objective is also to provide clarity as to what constitutes successful enrichment and recommend when and how enrichment should be used. Environmental enrichment is usually understood as an attempt to improve animal welfare and to a lesser extent, performance. Common enrichment objects used are straw bedding, suspended ropes and wood shavings, toys, rubber tubings, colored plastic keys, table tennis balls, chains and strings. These substrates need to be chewable, deformable, destructible and ingestible. For enrichment to be successful four goals are essential. Firstly, enrichment should increase the number and range of normal behaviors; secondly, it should prevent the phenomenon of anomalous behaviors or reduce their frequency; thirdly, it should increase positive use of the environment such as space and fourthly it should increase the ability of the animals to deal with behavioral and physiological challenges. The performance, behavior and physiology of pigs in enriched environments is similar or in some cases slightly better when compared with barren environments. In studies where there was no improvement, it should be borne in mind that enriching the environment may not always be practical and yield positive results due to factors such as type of enrichment substrates, duration of provision and type of enrichment used. The review also identifies possible areas that still need further research, especially in understanding the role of enrichment, novelty, breed differences and other enrichment alternatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mbusiseni Vusumuzi Mkwanazi
- Animal and Poultry Science, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
| | - Cypril Ndumiso Ncobela
- Animal and Poultry Science, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
| | - Arnold Tapera Kanengoni
- Veterinary Services and Research Department, Joburg Zoo, Private Bag X 13, Parkview 2122, South Africa
- College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida Campus, Florida 1709, South Africa
| | - Michael Chimonyo
- Animal and Poultry Science, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Greenwood EC, van Wettere WHEJ, Rayner J, Hughes PE, Plush KL. Provision Point-Source Materials Stimulates Play in Sows but Does Not Affect Aggression at Regrouping. Animals (Basel) 2018; 9:E8. [PMID: 30583570 PMCID: PMC6356819 DOI: 10.3390/ani9010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
When sows are mixed into groups, hierarchies form and resulting aggression and stress can affect production and welfare. This study determined the effect of providing point-source materials on aggressive and play behaviors in gestating sows. Large white cross Landrace sows were mixed after insemination; six pens of 12 sows were housed in 'standard' pens, and six pens of 12 sows were housed in 'enhanced' pens. The 'enhanced' pens each contained two rubber mats, eight strands of 24 mm-thick sisal rope and two yellow plastic disks, suspended from the roof. The sows remained in these pens until pregnancy confirmation. Salivary cortisol concentration, injury counts, and sow behaviors were recorded the day before mixing (day 1), mixing (day 0) and post-mixing day 1, day 4, day 7 and day 20. At farrowing, reproductive outcomes were obtained. Play was observed (including locomotor and object play) in the 'enhanced' pen, and percentage of time spent playing was greater on d4 (1.48 ± 0.3 Square root transformed data (2.84% non-transformed adjusted mean)), d7 (1.43 ± 0.3 (2.97%)) and d20 (1.64 ± 0.3 (3.84%)), compared to d0 (0.56 ± 0.3 (0.70%)) and d1 (0.87 ± 0.3 (1.67%) (p < 0.05)). No play was observed in standard housing. Aggression, salivary free cortisol concentrations and injuries were unaffected (p > 0.05). The provision of materials had no impact on aggression, although their presence maintained sow interest and play behavior, suggesting a positive effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Catharine Greenwood
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy 5371, South Australia, Australia.
| | - William H E J van Wettere
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy 5371, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Jessica Rayner
- South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), Roseworthy 5371, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Paul E Hughes
- Paul Hughes Consulting, North Adelaide 5006, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Kate L Plush
- SunPork Farms, Sheaoak Log 5371, South Australia, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Grimberg-Henrici C, Büttner K, Ladewig R, Burfeind O, Krieter J. Cortisol levels and health indicators of sows and their piglets living in a group-housing and a single-housing system. Livest Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2018.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
21
|
Rey-Salgueiro L, Martinez-Carballo E, Fajardo P, Chapela M, Espiñeira M, Simal-Gandara J. Meat quality in relation to swine well-being after transport and during lairage at the slaughterhouse. Meat Sci 2018; 142:38-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2018.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
22
|
Enrichment in the Sucker and Weaner Phase Altered the Performance of Pigs in Three Behavioural Tests. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8050074. [PMID: 29757955 PMCID: PMC5981285 DOI: 10.3390/ani8050074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We tested the hypothesis that provision of enrichment in the form of enrichment blocks during the sucker and weaner phases would affect the behaviour of pigs. We measured the performance of pigs in an open field/novel object test, a maze test, an executive function test and the cortisol response of the pigs after exposure to an open field test. The provision of enrichment blocks altered the behaviour of the pigs in all three tests and these changes suggest an increased willingness to explore and possibly an increased ability to learn. The behavioural tests highlighted that young pigs have the capacity to learn complex tasks. Our findings support the notion that the benefits of enrichment cannot be evaluated by measuring the interactions the animal has with the enrichments in the home pen and it may simply be beneficial to live in a more complex environment. We have highlighted that the early rearing environment is important and that the management and husbandry at an early age can have long-term implications for pigs. The enrichment we used in this study was very simple, an enrichment block, and we provide evidence suggesting the provision of enrichment effected pig behavioural responses. Even the simplest of enrichments may have benefits for the welfare and development of young pigs and there is merit in developing enrichment devices that are suitable for use in pig production.
Collapse
|
23
|
Dalmau A, Areal B, Machado S, Pallisera J, Velarde A. Does the location of enrichment material affect behavior and dirtiness in growing female pigs? J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2018. [PMID: 29543070 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2018.1443816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate if female growing pigs spend similar amounts of time exploring a wooden stick as they do exploring enrichment material regardless of its proximity to the feeder. Forty-eight pigs aged 18 to 26 weeks allocated to 16 pens with three pigs per pen were studied. Fifty percent of the pens had a wooden stick beside the feeder, and the rest had a similar stick opposite to the feeder. Two observers assessed the pigs by means of scan and focal sampling. The pigs spent more time (p < .0001) exploring the wood during the first week than during the rest of the study (10.9% vs 3.6%). The pigs with the wood close to the feeder spent less (p = .0001) time resting (29.9%) and more (p < .0001) time exploring (6.3%) the wood than did pigs with the wood opposite to the feeder (32.4% and 2.5%, respectively). In conclusion, a wooden stick placed close to the feeder was associated with more exploratory behaviorcompared with a similar stick placed opposite to the feeder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antoni Dalmau
- a Animal Welfare Program , Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA) , Girona , Spain
| | - Bruno Areal
- a Animal Welfare Program , Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA) , Girona , Spain
| | - Silvana Machado
- a Animal Welfare Program , Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA) , Girona , Spain
| | - Joaquim Pallisera
- a Animal Welfare Program , Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA) , Girona , Spain
| | - Antonio Velarde
- a Animal Welfare Program , Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA) , Girona , Spain
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Sheng Q, Liu J, Han H, Han J, Wan L. Effect of incorporating fungal-media residue in bedding on domestic-pig growth performance and welfare in winter. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2018; 58:1133. [DOI: 10.1071/an16058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Bedding materials significantly affect the health and growth performance of domestic pigs. The residue media from mushroom cultivation has potential as pig bedding because of its nutrient content for microbes and low cost. However, its components and granularity are heterogeneous. The present study investigated the effect of beddings containing fungal-residue media on the growth performance, stress response, thermoregulatory behaviour and general welfare of domestic pigs. During winter, 96 pigs were tested in a 2 × 4 factorial experiment involving fungal-residue media from production of Flammulina velutipes or Pleurotus eryngii, each added at rates of 0%, 15%, 45% or 60% of bedding that otherwise consisted of sawdust, rice husks, corn flour and Bacillus subtilis. After 98 days, growth factors and biomarkers of stress were analysed, and the condition of the bedding materials was examined. Fungal residues from either source, as 45% of bedding material, were associated with higher growth performance, lower stress, less huddling and higher immunity of pigs. Beddings with 45% fungal-media residues were also warmer, with lower levels of odorous chemicals, and higher numbers of beneficial microbes. No significant difference was observed between the two residue sources. Higher (60%) or lower (15%) concentrations of residue in beddings caused minor or insignificant improvements. In summary, bedding consisting of 45% fungal-residue media can improve the growth performance and welfare of domestic pigs during winter and is safe to promote.
Collapse
|
25
|
Hemsworth PH. Key determinants of pig welfare: implications of animal management and housing design on livestock welfare. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/an17897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The present review using the pig as a model has highlighted the importance of the design of the housing system on the welfare of farm animals. It has emphasised the need for research on animal welfare in new and modified housing systems, as well as current but contentious systems, to be attentive to the design contributions of these systems to animal welfare. The review has highlighted areas for future research to safeguard sow and piglet welfare, including the following: effective environmental enrichment for gestating sows in intensive, indoor and non-bedded systems; opportunities to increase foraging and feeding times in feed-restricted gestating sows; design features that allow both access to important resources, such as feed, water and a comfortable lying area, and escape opportunities to reduce aggression and minimise risks to the welfare of group-housed sows; and less confined farrowing and lactation systems. The review also shows that animal welfare problems may be less a function of the type of housing system than of how well it operates. The skills, knowledge and motivation of stockpeople to effectively care for and manage their animals are integral to the standard of welfare experienced by their animals. Attitudes influence not only the manner in which stockpeople handle animals, but also their motivation to care for their animals. Thus, training targeting technical skills and knowledge as well as the attitudes and behaviours of stockpeople should be a primary component of the human resource management practices at a farm. While public concerns and policy debates often focus on intensive housing systems, research indicates that the design and management of both indoor and outdoor housing systems is probably more important for animal welfare than is generally recognised.
Collapse
|
26
|
Diana A, Manzanilla EG, Calderón Díaz JA, Leonard FC, Boyle LA. Do weaner pigs need in-feed antibiotics to ensure good health and welfare? PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185622. [PMID: 28982114 PMCID: PMC5628837 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotics (AB) are used in intensive pig production systems to control infectious diseases and they are suspected to be a major source of antibiotic resistance. Following the ban on AB use as growth promoters in the EU, their prophylactic use in-feed is now under review. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of removing prophylactic in-feed AB on pig health and welfare indicators. Every Monday for six weeks, a subset of 70 pigs were weaned, tagged and sorted into two groups of 35 pigs according to weight (9.2 ± 0.6 kg). AB were removed from the diet of one group (NO, n = 6) and maintained in the other group (AB, n = 6) for nine weeks. Ten focal pigs were chosen per group. After c. five weeks each group was split into two pens of c.17 pigs for the following 4 weeks. Data were recorded weekly. Skin, tail, ear, flank and limb lesions of focal pigs were scored according to severity. The number of animals per group affected by health deviations was also recorded. The number of fights and harmful behaviours (ear, tail bites) per group was counted during 3×5min observations once per week. Data were analysed using mixed model equations and binomial logistic regression. At group level, AB pigs were more likely to have tail (OR = 1.70; P = 0.05) but less likely to have ear lesions than NO pigs (OR = 0.46; P<0.05). The number of ear bites (21.4±2.15 vs. 17.3±1.61; P<0.05) and fights (6.91±0.91 vs. 5.58±0.72; P = 0.09) was higher in AB than in NO pigs. There was no effect of treatment on health deviations and the frequency of these was low. Removing AB from the feed of weaner pigs had minimal effects on health and welfare indicators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Diana
- Pig Development Department, Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
- School of Veterinary Medicine, UCD, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Edgar G. Manzanilla
- Pig Development Department, Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | - Julia A. Calderón Díaz
- Pig Development Department, Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
- Department of Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Institute of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Postepu 36A, Jastrzębiec, Magdalenka, Poland
| | | | - Laura A. Boyle
- Pig Development Department, Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Casal-Plana N, Manteca X, Dalmau A, Fàbrega E. Influence of enrichment material and herbal compounds in the behaviour and performance of growing pigs. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2017.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
28
|
Zhang MY, Li X, Zhang XH, Liu HG, Li JH, Bao J. Effects of confinement duration and parity on behavioural responses and the degree of psychological fear in pregnant sows. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2017.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
29
|
Effect of environmental enrichment and herbal compound supplementation on physiological stress indicators (chromogranin A, cortisol and tumour necrosis factor-α) in growing pigs. Animal 2016; 11:1228-1236. [PMID: 27927261 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731116002561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress response induces physiological, behavioural, immunological and biochemical changes that directly affect health and well-being. Provision of environmental enrichment and herbal compounds may reduce stress in current commercial pig husbandry systems. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of providing different environmental enrichment materials (EE) and a herbal compound (HC) on physiological indicators of acute and chronic stress in growing pigs (salivary cortisol and chromogranin A (CgA), hair cortisol and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)). Salivary cortisol and CgA have been reported as biomarkers basically of acute stress, whereas hair cortisol and TNF-α have been more related to chronic stress. For this purpose, eight groups of seven pigs each (14 pigs/treatment, 56 pigs in total) were used: (a) two EE groups, (b) two groups supplemented with HC, (c) two groups provided both with EE and HC and (d) two control groups. Samples of hair, saliva and blood were taken to measure cortisol (in hair and saliva), CgA (in saliva) and TNF-α (in blood) at three different times: before starting the experiment (T0), and after 1 (T1) or 2 months (T2) of providing the materials and herbal compound. No differences were found at T0 in salivary or hair cortisol, CgA or TNF-α, whilst at T2, the control group showed significant increased concentrations of CgA and hair cortisol, when compared with the rest of the treatments (P<0.001). These differences were significant at T1 only for CgA (P<0.001). Furthermore, an overall correlation was reported between hair cortisol and salivary CgA (r=0.48, P<0.001). These results support that providing enrichment material or an herbal compound may reduce stress in growing pigs. Furthermore, the results support that hair cortisol and CgA may be proper non-invasive tools to detect stress, specially associated with factors of chronic exposure.
Collapse
|
30
|
Housing conditions do not alter cognitive bias but affect serum cortisol, qualitative behaviour assessment and wounds on the carcass in pigs. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2016.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
31
|
Abstract
AbstractThe purpose of this experiment was to determine whether body temperature is a sensitive parameter to measure long-term effects of stress in pigs. Mixing of unacquainted pigs is a severe stressor that has detrimental effects on health, production and welfare. We measured deep body temperature after mixing growing pigs. Five pigs of 15 weeks of age, each individually housed with a companion pig, were mixed with two unacquainted congeners. Deep body temperature, heart rate and activity were recorded by radiotelemetry 9 days prior to until 8 days after mixing. These parameters were also recorded in five control pigs (individually housed with a companion pig) during the same time span. Behaviour during the light period was recorded on videotape on the day of mixing and on three subsequent days. Mixing induced a significant rise in body temperature that lasted for 8 h after mixing. Although heart rate and general activity level did not significantly differ between mixed and control pigs, mixing significantly increased the frequency of fighting and reduced the frequency of eating. In conclusion, the present experiment shows that mixing induces a long-lasting hyperthermia in pigs. Thus, deep body temperature may be used as a sensitive parameter to measure long-term effects of stress in pigs.
Collapse
|
32
|
Effects of open field testing and associated handling v. handling alone on the adrenocortical reactivity of piglets around weaning. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1017/s1357729800052644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractEffects of open field testing and associated handling (including blood sampling) v. handling (with blood sampling) alone on adrenocortical reactivity were investigated in piglets around weaning. After weaning at day 28, piglets were mixed to form eight replicates with three litter each and kept on slatted floors. Treatments were open field/novel object testing and associated handling (OFT + H) v. handling alone (H) (no. = 40). Testing took place on the following days (weaning day 0): -4, 0, 1, 4 and 8 (no. = 16). The open field/novel object test lasted 10 min and blood was sampled by venipuncture before and after the test and/or handling procedures. In the first blood sample, plasma concentration of cortisol did not differ between OFT + H and H piglets. In the second blood sample, however, OFT + H piglets had a higher concentration of cortisol and a larger increase in cortisol than H piglets (P < 0·01). In the first blood sample the concentration of cortisol was affected by day (P < 0·05), with concentration on day -4 being lower than those on day 0, 1, and 4 and the concentration on day 8 was lower than the concentration on day 0 as well. However, no differences were found between days for the second blood sample nor the adrenocortical reactivity. In conclusion, the increase in pre-treatment cortisol in the first 4 days after weaning as well as the lack of changes in the adrenocortical reactivity after weaning suggest that the temporal development of HPA activity and reactivity in piglets after weaning are comparable with other, more standardized long-term stressors. Exposure to an open field/novel object test and associated handling results in higher adrenocortical reactivity than handling alone but the latter (including blood sampling) in itself accounts for proportionately 0·74 of the cortisol response.
Collapse
|
33
|
|
34
|
Impact of structural and cognitive enrichment on the learning performance, behavior and physiology of dwarf goats (Capra aegagrus hircus). Appl Anim Behav Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2016.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
35
|
Tozawa A, Tanaka S, Sato S. The Effects of Components of Grazing System on Welfare of Fattening Pigs. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2016; 29:428-35. [PMID: 26950876 PMCID: PMC4811796 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.15.0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Revised: 05/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to clarify the most effective component of grazing for improving welfare of fattening pigs. This study compared welfare indicators of 20 fattening pigs aged 100 to 124 days (the prior period) and 138 to 164 days (the latter period) in an indoor housing system (IS), an outdoor pasturing system (OP), a concrete floor paddock system (CF), a concrete floor paddock system with fresh grass (FG), or a soil floor paddock system (SF). The last three treatments include important components of a grazing system: extra space, grass feed, and soil floor. Behavior, wounds on the body, and performances, measured as average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio, were observed. CF pigs behaved similarly to IS pigs. FG pigs showed higher levels of foraging, chewing and activity. SF pigs engaged in higher levels of foraging, exploring, activity, and rooting, and showed a similar amount of playing behavior as OP pigs. ADG was the same in all treatments at the prior period, and increased in the order FG, IS, CF, SF, and OP at the latter. The behaviors and performance of SF pigs resembled those of OP which seemed to indicate a consistently higher standard of welfare than the other treatments. In conclusion, the existence of a soil floor is the most important component of a pasture for improving the welfare of pigs.
Collapse
|
36
|
Manciocco A, Sensi M, Moscati L, Battistacci L, Laviola G, Brambilla G, Vitale A, Alleva E. Longitudinal effects of environmental enrichment on behaviour and physiology of pigs reared on an intensive-stock farm. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.4081/ijas.2011.e52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Manciocco
- Dipartimento di Biologia Cellulare e Neuroscienze, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma, Italy
- Dipartimento di Progettazione Molecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Roma, Italy
| | - Marco Sensi
- Laboratorio di Diagnostica di Base, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche, Perugia, Italy
| | - Livia Moscati
- Laboratorio di Chimica Clinica e Benessere Animale, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche, Perugia, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Battistacci
- Laboratorio di Chimica Clinica e Benessere Animale, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche, Perugia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Laviola
- Dipartimento di Biologia Cellulare e Neuroscienze, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Brambilla
- Dipartimento Ambiente e Connessa Prevenzione Primaria, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma, Italy
| | - Augusto Vitale
- Dipartimento di Biologia Cellulare e Neuroscienze, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma, Italy
| | - Enrico Alleva
- Dipartimento di Biologia Cellulare e Neuroscienze, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Mahnhardt S, Brietzke J, Kanitz E, Schön PC, Tuchscherer A, Gimsa U, Manteuffel G. Anticipation and frequency of feeding affect heart reactions in domestic pigs. J Anim Sci 2015; 92:4878-87. [PMID: 25349338 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2014-7752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Measuring heart reactions has become a widely used method for the assessment of emotions. Heart rate and its variability, which can quite easily be noninvasively recorded, reflect the inputs of the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomous nervous system. We tested the hypothesis that frequent anticipation of a positive event results in an increased state of welfare in pigs, expressed as positive arousal in anticipation of announced feeding as well as lowered heart rate and augmented heart rate variability during resting periods. We used a controlled paradigm with 3 groups of young domestic pigs (Sus scrofa domestica). We compared frequent acoustic announcement of feed delivery (group 1: 3 feedings between 0730 h and 1030 h plus 3 feedings between 1200 h and 1530 h) with the same number of feedings as in group 1 but without a temporal relation to the sound (group 2) and with a fixed-schedule feeding (group 3: 2 feedings at 0600 h and 1500 h). Specific cardiac and behavioral reactions indicated short-term (1 min) anticipation in the conditioned group. In this group, heart rate increased (P < 0.001) mainly through vagal withdraw and behavior became more active (P < 0.001). Only the conditioned group displayed changing heart rate characteristics during the sound. Pigs in the frequent unpredictable feed group reacted to feed delivery with increased heart rates (P < 0.001), whereas the heart-rate characteristics of pigs with the fixed schedule were unchanged during the sound and while the other 2 treatment groups were feeding. Clear evidence for long-term anticipation (over the course of hours) was not present in the data. Comparisons between the 3 treatment groups suggested that in housing conditions where pigs cannot obtain feed by their actions but must wait for feed delivery, feeding at 2 fixed times would be preferred. Animals in this treatment group presented lower resting heart rates at the end of the experiment than animals in the other 2 groups (P < 0.01). Therefore, merely announcing a positive stimulus without giving control to its access is apparently not suitable for increasing welfare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Mahnhardt
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - J Brietzke
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - E Kanitz
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - P C Schön
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - A Tuchscherer
- Institute of Genetics and Biometry, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - U Gimsa
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - G Manteuffel
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Grimberg-Henrici CGE, Vermaak P, Bolhuis JE, Nordquist RE, van der Staay FJ. Effects of environmental enrichment on cognitive performance of pigs in a spatial holeboard discrimination task. Anim Cogn 2015; 19:271-83. [PMID: 26520648 PMCID: PMC4751158 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-015-0932-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Revised: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of environmental enrichment on the cognitive performance of female conventional farm (growing) pigs in a spatial holeboard task. Ten pairs of littermates matched for weight were used. From each litter, one piglet was randomly assigned to a barren environment; the other was assigned to an enriched environment from 4 weeks of age. The enriched environment was double the size of the barren environment, had a floor covered with straw, a rooting area filled with peat, and one of the four different enrichment toys which were exchanged daily. Starting at 11 weeks of age, all pigs were tested in a spatial holeboard discrimination task in which 4 out of 16 holes were baited. Furthermore, basal salivary cortisol levels of all pigs were determined after the end of all testing. All pigs were able to acquire the pattern of baited holes (acquisition phase, 40 trials) and the diagonally mirrored pattern (reversal phase, 20 trials). During the acquisition phase, the reference memory performance of the enriched-housed pigs was better than that of their barren-housed littermates, i.e. they reduced visits to the unbaited set of holes. During the reversal phase, enriched-housed pigs had a better general working memory performance than the barren-housed pigs as indicated by reduced revisits to holes already visited during a trial, irrespective of whether they were of the baited or the unbaited set. The enriched-housed pigs also searched for the hidden bait faster during both phases. The environments did not affect basal salivary cortisol levels. In conclusion, environmental enrichment slightly improved the cognitive performance of pigs in a spatial learning task. We hypothesise that the long period of habituation to and testing in the holeboard acted as enrichment that partially reduced the effects of barren housing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte G E Grimberg-Henrici
- Emotion and Cognition Group, Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands. .,Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands. .,Institute of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Paul Vermaak
- Applied Biology, HAS, University of Applied Sciences, Den Bosch, The Netherlands
| | - J Elizabeth Bolhuis
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Rebecca E Nordquist
- Emotion and Cognition Group, Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - F Josef van der Staay
- Emotion and Cognition Group, Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Social stress as a cause of diseases in farm animals: Current knowledge and future directions. Vet J 2015; 206:15-21. [PMID: 26160470 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2015.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2015] [Revised: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Over the past 50 years, biomedical research has established a strong linkage between psychosocial stress and disease risk in humans, which has transformed the understanding of stress and the role it plays in human lives. This research has led to personalized medicine where a reduction in daily life stress is a main goal for many people with debilitating illnesses. This review describes the supporting evidence that social stress also plays a critical role in farm animal disease prevention, and may be a mediator by which common management practices can increase disease risk. There is evidence that social factors, including deprivation of social contact ('social isolation'), reducing space allowance ('crowding') and disturbing social order ('social instability') trigger physiological and behavioral indicators of stress in livestock. Less research exists, however, linking management practices that trigger social stress with higher disease risk. Suggestions are offered for future research opportunities, and practical, evidence-based recommendations are made for reducing the negative effects of social isolation, instability and crowding. The current evidence that social factors contribute to disease risk in farm animals is not as convincing as the human literature, but remains a promising and important area for future research.
Collapse
|
40
|
Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry method development for monitoring stress-related corticosteroids levels in pig saliva. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2015; 990:158-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2015.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Revised: 03/19/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
|
41
|
Animal and management factors influencing grower and finisher pig performance and efficiency in European systems: a meta-analysis. Animal 2015; 9:1210-20. [PMID: 25737212 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731115000269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
A meta-analysis on the effects of management and animal-based factors on the performance and feed efficiency of growing pigs can provide information on single factor and interaction effects absent in individual studies. This study analysed the effects of such factors on average daily gain (ADG), feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of grower and finisher pigs. The multivariate models identified significant effects of: (1) bedding (P<0.01), stage of growth (P<0.001) and the interaction bedding×lysine (P<0.001) on ADG. ADG was higher on straw compared with no bedding (710 v. 605 g/day). (2) FI was significantly affected by stage of growth (P<0.01), bedding (P<0.01), group composition (P<0.05), group size (P<0.01), feed CP content (P<0.01), ambient temperature (P<0.01) and the interaction between floor space and feed energy content (P<0.001). Pigs housed on straw had a lower FI in comparison with those without (1.44 v. 2.04 kg/day); a higher FI was seen for pigs separated by gender in comparison with mixed groups (2.05 v. 1.65 kg/day); FI had a negative linear relationship with group size, the CP content of the feed and ambient temperature. (3) Stage of growth (P<0.001), feed CP (P<0.001) and lysine content (P<0.001), ambient temperature (P<0.001) and feed crude fibre (CF) content (P<0.01) significantly affected FCR; there were no significant interactions between any factors on this trait. There was an improvement in FCR at higher ambient temperatures, increased feed CP and lysine content, but a deterioration of FCR at higher CF contents. For ADG, the interaction of bedding×lysine was caused by pigs housed without bedding (straw) having higher ADG when on a feed lower in lysine, whereas those with bedding had a higher ADG when on a feed higher in lysine. Interaction effects on FI were caused by animals with the least amount of floor space having a higher FI when given a feed with a low metabolisable energy (ME) content, in contrast to all other pigs, which showed a higher FI with increased ME content. The meta-analysis confirmed the significant effect of several well-known factors on the performance and efficiency of grower and finisher pigs, the effects of some less established ones and, importantly, the interactions between such factors.
Collapse
|
42
|
|
43
|
Siegford JM. Multidisciplinary approaches and assessment techniques to better understand and enhance zoo nonhuman animal welfare. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2014; 16:300-18. [PMID: 24079486 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2013.827914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Nonhuman animal welfare is a complex concept that encompasses an animal's biological functioning, emotional states, and opportunities to experience a natural life, including the performance of natural behaviors. Further, animal welfare can be viewed as quality of life from the perspective of the animal and thus must consider the animal's subjective experiences. Therefore, assessing and enhancing animal welfare should include multidisciplinary, scientific ventures that strive to create a complete picture of how animals' bodies and minds respond to both aversive and pleasant situations. Practical assessment of animal welfare should include outcome-based measures from the animal that provide information about the individual's welfare as well as resource-based measures that can help identify causes of or risk factors for poor welfare. Increasingly, scientists are examining the emotional states of animals as well as the impact of pain, pleasure, and consciousness on animal welfare. This article discusses approaches such as preference testing, instrumental learning, examination of space and resource use, and qualitative assessments of animal welfare that might be useful and practical for assessing and enhancing welfare in zoo settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janice M Siegford
- a Animal Behavior and Welfare Group, Department of Animal Science , Michigan State University
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Scientific Opinion concerning a Multifactorial approach on the use of animal and non‐animal‐based measures to assess the welfare of pigs. EFSA J 2014. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2014.3702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
|
45
|
Reimert I, Rodenburg TB, Ursinus WW, Kemp B, Bolhuis JE. Responses to novel situations of female and castrated male pigs with divergent social breeding values and different backtest classifications in barren and straw-enriched housing. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2013.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
|
46
|
Effects of cognitive enrichment on behavioural and physiological reactions of pigs. Physiol Behav 2013; 118:70-9. [PMID: 23680428 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2013.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2012] [Accepted: 05/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive enrichment, a special form of environmental enrichment, addresses the cognitive abilities of animals in captivity. Through cognitive interaction with the environment, the animals regain a certain control over their environment, and essential resources, such as food or water, act as a reward for successful coping. It is assumed that this process has important implications for animal welfare, especially in the intensive housing systems of farm animals. This study investigates the effects of cognitive enrichment on welfare-relevant behaviour (agonistic interactions and behavioural reactivity in a repeated open-field test) and autonomic control (heart rate variability during feeding, resting and in a repeated open-field test) in domestic pigs. A total of forty-eight pigs, Sus scrofa, were housed in groups of four. In six replicates, an experimental group was compared with a conventionally fed control group. The pigs in the experimental group were confronted with a cognitive challenge that was integrated into their familiar housing environment. Pigs were rewarded with food after they successfully mastered the discrimination of an individual acoustical signal followed by an operant task. The pigs in both groups reacted with sympathetic arousal to feeding announcement (increased heart rate (HR)). During feeding, the experimental pigs' HR decreased, and heart rate variability (HRV) increased, while the control pigs' HR stayed highly elevated and HRV decreased. These results are supported by a considerably larger number of agonistic interactions during feeding in the control group. During resting, the basal HRV of the experimental pigs increased (during operant conditioning) compared to the control. In the repeated open-field test, the experimental pigs displayed less locomotion and elimination as well as more contact with the wall and an unknown object compared to the control group. We conclude that cognitive enrichment leads to relaxed feeding and evokes longer lasting positive emotions. Moreover, the pigs displayed more explorative and less fearful behaviour in stressful situations. These findings support the use of cognitive enrichment to improve animal welfare.
Collapse
|
47
|
Effects of neonatal castration on social behaviour, human–animal relationship and feeding activity in finishing pigs reared in a conventional or an enriched housing. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2013.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
48
|
Health and immune traits of Basque and Large White pigs housed in a conventional or enriched environment. Animal 2013; 6:1290-9. [PMID: 23217232 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731112000080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Since decades, production traits such as growth rate, feed efficiency or body composition have been drastically increased in pigs by genetic selection. Whether this selection impacted animal robustness is still unclear. In this study, we compared Large White (LW) pigs, a breed submitted to intense genetic selection for production traits, and Basque (B) pigs, a local rustic breed, reared in two different housing environments (conventional v. enriched). Adaptation to housing conditions among each breed was evaluated at the level of endocrine and immune traits. These are known to be impacted by housing conditions and breed; however, the interaction effects between genotype and environment are less described. Animals (20 per breed and housing environment) entered the experiment at 35 kg of live weight. Levels of cortisol, acute-phase inflammatory proteins, immunoglobulins and hydrogen peroxide, blood formula, lymphocyte proliferation and in-vitro cytokine expression were measured at ∼115 kg of live weight. Animals were checked for skin injuries during the growing period. At slaughter, at the average live weight of 145 kg, carcasses were examined for pathological conditions of the respiratory tract. The major result was that the two breeds exhibited differences in response to the housing environment. Among the 24 sanitary, endocrine or immune traits investigated, the housing conditions affected eight variables in both breeds (salivary cortisol at 0700 and 1900 h, severity of pneumonia at slaughter) or only in B pigs (severe skin lesions) or LW pigs (salivary cortisol at 1500 h, granulocyte numbers and lymphocyte/granulocyte ratio and lymphocyte proliferation). These observations strengthen the hypothesis that selection for high meat production level might be associated with an increased susceptibility of animals to environmental stressors.
Collapse
|
49
|
The influence of a magnesium-rich marine extract on behaviour, salivary cortisol levels and skin lesions in growing pigs. Animal 2012; 7:1017-27. [PMID: 23253104 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731112002431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Growing pigs can display undesirable behaviours, reflecting or causing poor welfare. Addition of magnesium (Mg) to the diet could reduce these, as Mg supplementation has been associated with improved coping ability in response to stress. This study examined the effect of supplementation with a Mg-rich marine extract-based product (Supplement) on the behaviour, skin and tail lesion scores and salivary cortisol concentrations of growing pigs. At weaning (28 days), 448 piglets were assigned to either Control or Supplement (0.05%) diets in single-sex groups of 14. Four weeks later (c. 17 kg), pigs were blocked according to weight and back test scores. Seven piglets from each pen were mixed with seven from another pen of the same sex and dietary treatment to yield the following groups: control male, Supplement male, control female and Supplement female (n = 4 of each). This marked the start of the 9-week experimental period. Instances of the following behaviours were recorded in each pen for 8 × 2 min periods 1 day/week: aggression (fight, head-knock and bite); harmful (tail-in-mouth, ear-chewing and belly-nosing); and sexual/mounting behaviour. Four focal pigs were selected from each pen, and their behaviour was continuously recorded for 2 × 5 min periods on the same day. Saliva was collected once per week at 1000 h by allowing pigs to chew on a cotton bud for c. 1 min. Salivary cortisol was analysed in duplicate by an enzyme immunoassay. Skin and tail lesions were scored according to severity 1 day/week. There were fewer aggressive incidents in Supplement pens (P < 0.01), and mounting behaviour (performed only by males) was almost three times lower in Supplement than in control pens (P < 0.01). However, there was no effect of Supplement on the incidence of each of the harmful behaviours. Behaviour of the focal pigs showed no treatment effect on the duration or incidence of aggressive behaviour. However, Supplement pigs spent less time performing harmful behaviours compared with control pigs (P < 0.001). Supplement had no effect on the occurrence or severity of tail-biting outbreaks or on tail lesion scores. However, Supplement females had lower skin lesion scores, in particular in the ears and shoulders (P < 0.01). Finally, Supplement pigs had lower salivary cortisol concentrations (P < 0.01). Mounting is a major welfare concern in uncastrated pigs, and therefore this represents an important welfare benefit of Supplement. Reduced salivary cortisol, in conjunction with reduced skin lesion scores in supplemented females, suggests that addition of a Mg-rich marine extract improved pig welfare in this system.
Collapse
|
50
|
Reimert I, Bolhuis JE, Kemp B, Rodenburg TB. Indicators of positive and negative emotions and emotional contagion in pigs. Physiol Behav 2012; 109:42-50. [PMID: 23159725 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2012.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2012] [Revised: 06/05/2012] [Accepted: 11/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
For the welfare of group-housed animals, such as pigs, the emotional state of an individual pig is relevant, but also the extent to which pen mates are affected by the distress or pleasure of other individuals, i.e. emotional contagion, a simple form of empathy. Therefore, indicators of positive and negative emotions were investigated in pigs during anticipation and experience of a rewarding (access in pairs to a compartment with straw, peat and chocolate raisins) or aversive (social isolation combined with negative, unpredictable interventions) event. Thereafter the same indicators were investigated in naive pigs during anticipation and experience of a rewarding or aversive event by their trained pen mates. Positive emotions could be indicated by play, barks and tail movements, while negative emotions could be indicated by freezing, defecating, urinating, escape attempts, high-pitched vocalizations (screams, squeals or grunt-squeals), tail low, ears back and ear movements. Salivary cortisol measurements supported these behavioral observations. During anticipation of the aversive event, naive pigs tended to show more tail low. During the aversive event, naive pigs tended to defecate more, while they played more during the rewarding event. These results suggest that pigs might be sensitive to emotional contagion, which could have implications for the welfare of group-housed pigs. Pig emotions and the process of emotional contagion merit, therefore, further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inonge Reimert
- Wageningen University, Department of Animal Sciences, Adaptation Physiology Group, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|