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Hassan MG, Hassan R, Hassan DG, Abdelrahman HH, Cox TC, Jheon AH. Altering maternal calcium and phosphorus dietary intake induces persistent sex-specific changes in the dentition of the offspring. Orthod Craniofac Res 2024; 27:403-412. [PMID: 38059401 DOI: 10.1111/ocr.12742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The maternal diet is essential to offspring development, but the specific effects on tooth morphology are still unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of altering maternal calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) supplementation during gestation and lactation on offspring dentition. METHODS Pregnant mice were fed an experimental diet containing a threefold increase in Ca and a threefold decrease in P compared to the standard mouse chow diet at embryonic Day 0.5 (E0.5). Offspring mice were maintained on standard or experimental diets from post-natal Day 0 to weaning, then fed control diets until 6 weeks of age. Six-week-old offspring heads were collected and scanned using micro-computed tomography. Dental morphometrics of offspring maxillary and mandibular first and third molars (n = 5-6 per diet/per sex) were determined. A two-way ANOVA test was employed to verify the existence of any significant differences between groups. The significance level was set at P < .05. RESULTS A two-way ANOVA revealed a statistically significant interaction between the effects of diet and sex on the upper and lower dentition. Moreover, experimental diet-fed female offspring exhibited smaller molars with shorter mesiodistal width and larger pulp chambers relative to controls, while experimental diet-fed male offspring possessed larger molars with wider mesiodistal width and smaller pulp chambers. CONCLUSION Our findings reveal that altering the maternal and offspring dietary Ca:P ratio during gestation, lactation and weaning led to significant, sex-specific changes in the offspring dentition. The differences in dentition appeared to be correlated with the sex-specific changes in the craniofacial skeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed G Hassan
- Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
- Division of Bone and Mineral Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Reham Hassan
- Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
- Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, The Egyptian Russian University, Badr City, Egypt
| | - Dina G Hassan
- Department of Environmental Medical Sciences, Faculty of Graduate Studies and Environmental Research, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hams H Abdelrahman
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, and Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria, University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Timothy C Cox
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Andrew H Jheon
- Divisions of Craniofacial Anomalies and Orthodontics, UCSF, San Francisco, California, USA
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2
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Ozawa S, Gleeson M. Rabbit Pediatrics. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2024; 27:171-191. [PMID: 37993319 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2023.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Rabbits encompass roles spanning from companion animals, wildlife species to laboratory animal models. Pediatric care of these species therefore may extend to various disciplines of veterinary medicine. Rabbits are born altricial but have a unique perinatal relationship between kit and doe with infrequent nursing. Nursing is immunologically protective to the kit and close contact with the doe allows for colonization of their gastrointestinal tract with bacterial flora. The most common diseases that pediatric rabbits are faced with are gastrointestinal in nature with orphaned and hand-reared rabbits at higher risk due to the aforementioned effects on their immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Ozawa
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 Williams Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA.
| | - Molly Gleeson
- Department of Exotic Pets, PETS Referral Center, 1048 University Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA
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3
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Borawski W, Kiełbowicz Z, Kubiak-Nowak D, Prządka P, Pasternak G. Computed Tomographic Findings of Dental Disease and Secondary Diseases of the Head Area in Client-Owned Domestic Rabbits ( Oryctolagus cuniculus): 90 Cases. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1160. [PMID: 38672307 PMCID: PMC11047664 DOI: 10.3390/ani14081160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Domestic rabbits have teeth that grow throughout the animal's life and are prone to disease. Clinical signs of dental disease in domestic rabbits are non-specific, and, therefore, a definitive diagnosis usually requires additional methods. This study was carried out on a group of 105 domestic rabbits aged 3 to 9 years. In total, 90 domestic rabbits with dental disease visible on CT images and other secondary diseases of the head area qualified for this study. Malocclusion was found in 57 (63.3%). Retrograde elongation of the tooth apices in the mandible was present in 39 (43.3%), and it was present in the maxilla in 48 (53%). Clinical tooth crowns were overgrown in 39 (43%). Dental abscesses were present in 54 (63%). Secondary to the presence of a dental abscess, osteomyelitis was found in 43 (79% of the animals with a dental abscess). Dental inflammatory resorption was found in 36 (40%). Secondary to dental disease, nasal cavity inflammation was found in 18 (20%). Otitis media was present in six (6.7%). The most common dental disease found in this study's animals was malocclusion secondary to abnormal clinical crown abrasion and abnormal tooth growth. In domestic rabbits, osteomyelitis is a common complication of dental abscesses. Computed tomography is an invaluable diagnostic method in the diagnosis of dental disease and secondary diseases of the head area, such as inflammation of the nasal cavities or otitis media, in pet rabbits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Borawski
- Department and Clinic of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Pl. Grunwaldzki 51, 50-366 Wroclaw, Poland; (Z.K.); (D.K.-N.); (P.P.)
| | - Zdzisław Kiełbowicz
- Department and Clinic of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Pl. Grunwaldzki 51, 50-366 Wroclaw, Poland; (Z.K.); (D.K.-N.); (P.P.)
| | - Dominika Kubiak-Nowak
- Department and Clinic of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Pl. Grunwaldzki 51, 50-366 Wroclaw, Poland; (Z.K.); (D.K.-N.); (P.P.)
| | - Przemysław Prządka
- Department and Clinic of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Pl. Grunwaldzki 51, 50-366 Wroclaw, Poland; (Z.K.); (D.K.-N.); (P.P.)
| | - Gerard Pasternak
- 3rd Department and Clinic of Pediatrics, Immunology and Rheumatology of Developmental Age, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Wrocław, ul. Koszarowa 5, 51-149 Wroclaw, Poland;
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4
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Wang L, Meloro C, Fagan MJ, Kissane RWP, Bates KT, Askew GN, Watson PJ. Regional variation of the cortical and trabecular bone material properties in the rabbit skull. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298621. [PMID: 38412158 PMCID: PMC10898762 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The material properties of some bones are known to vary with anatomical location, orientation and position within the bone (e.g., cortical and trabecular bone). Details of the heterogeneity and anisotropy of bone is an important consideration for biomechanical studies that apply techniques such as finite element analysis, as the outcomes will be influenced by the choice of material properties used. Datasets detailing the regional variation of material properties in the bones of the skull are sparse, leaving many finite element analyses of skulls no choice but to employ homogeneous, isotropic material properties, often using data from a different species to the one under investigation. Due to the growing significance of investigating the cranial biomechanics of the rabbit in basic science and clinical research, this study used nanoindentation to measure the elastic modulus of cortical and trabecular bone throughout the skull. The elastic moduli of cortical bone measured in the mediolateral and ventrodorsal direction were found to decrease posteriorly through the skull, while it was evenly distributed when measured in the anteroposterior direction. Furthermore, statistical tests showed that the variation of elastic moduli between separate regions (anterior, middle and posterior) of the skull were significantly different in cortical bone, but was not in trabecular bone. Elastic moduli measured in different orthotropic planes were also significantly different, with the moduli measured in the mediolateral direction consistently lower than that measured in either the anteroposterior or ventrodorsal direction. These findings demonstrate the significance of regional and directional variation in cortical bone elastic modulus, and therefore material properties in finite element models of the skull, particularly those of the rabbit, should consider the heterogeneous and orthotropic properties of skull bone when possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linje Wang
- Structural Biomechanics, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Engineering, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Carlo Meloro
- Research Centre in Evolutionary Anthropology and Palaeoecology, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Michael J Fagan
- School of Engineering, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Roger W P Kissane
- Department of Musculoskeletal & Ageing Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Karl T Bates
- Department of Musculoskeletal & Ageing Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Graham N Askew
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Peter J Watson
- School of Engineering, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
- Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
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5
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Molitor LE, Rockwell K, Gould A, Mitchell MA. Effects of Short-Duration Artificial Ultraviolet B Exposure on 25-Hydroxyvitamin D 3 Concentrations in Domestic Rabbits ( Oryctolagus cuniculus). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13081307. [PMID: 37106870 PMCID: PMC10135136 DOI: 10.3390/ani13081307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D is an important hormone that can be acquired through diet, exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, or a combination of these methods. In domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), both methods appear viable, but there is limited research evaluating the effects of UVB on this species. Previous studies found that 12 h of artificial UVB radiation significantly increased 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-OHD3) concentrations over time. While these findings suggest UVB can be beneficial in rabbits, this form of radiation can also be detrimental to vertebrates. The purpose of this study was to determine if shorter-duration UVB could elicit a similar physiological response in rabbits while minimizing potential negative effects. Six rabbits were used for this pilot study. The baseline serum 25-OHD3 was measured for each rabbit and following 14 days of 6 h/day exposure to artificial UVB, a second 25-OHD3 sample was collected. There was a significant increase (p = 0.001) in serum 25-OHD3 over time (Baseline: 27.7 ± 8.1 nmol/L; Day 14: 79.8 ± 9 nmol/L). This study affirmed that 6 h of UVB produced 25-OHD3 concentrations similar to those found in rabbits exposed to 12 h of UVB. Future studies should continue to determine how the duration of UVB exposure affects 25-OHD3 concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laure E Molitor
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Kelly Rockwell
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Amelia Gould
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Mark A Mitchell
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
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6
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Martin LF, Ackermans NL, Richter H, Kircher P, Hummel J, Codron D, Clauss M, Hatt J. Macrowear effects of external quartz abrasives of different size and concentration in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART B, MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2022; 338:586-597. [PMID: 34813148 PMCID: PMC9787991 DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.23104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
External quartz abrasives are one of the driving forces of macrowear in herbivorous animals. We tested to what extent different sizes and concentrations influence their effect on tooth wear. We fed seven pelleted diets varying only in quartz concentration (0%, 4%, and 8%) and size (fine silt: ∼4 μm, coarse silt: ∼50 μm, fine sand: ∼130 μm) to rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, n = 16) for 2 weeks each in a randomized serial experiment. Measurements to quantify wear and growth of incisors and the mandibular first cheek tooth, as well as heights of all other cheek teeth, were performed using calipers, endoscopic examination, and computed tomography scans before and after each feeding period. Tooth growth showed a compensatory correlation with wear. Absolute tooth height (ATH) and relative tooth height (RTH); relative to the 0% quartz "control" diet) was generally lower on the higher concentration and the larger size of abrasives. The effect was more pronounced on the maxillary teeth, on specific tooth positions and the right jaw side. When offered the choice between different sizes of abrasives, the rabbits favored the silt diets over the control and the fine sand diet; in a second choice experiment with different diets, they selected a pelleted diet with coarse-grained sand, however. This study confirms the dose- and size-dependent wear effects of external abrasives, and that hypselodont teeth show compensatory growth. The avoidance of wear did not seem a priority for animals with hypselodont teeth, since the rabbits did not avoid diets inducing a certain degree of wear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise F. Martin
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse FacultyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Nicole L. Ackermans
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse FacultyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland,Present address:
Nicole L. Ackermans, Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Center for Anatomy and Functional MorphologyIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Henning Richter
- Clinic for Diagnostic Imaging, Vetsuisse FacultyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Patrick Kircher
- Clinic for Diagnostic Imaging, Vetsuisse FacultyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Jürgen Hummel
- Divison of Ruminant Nutrition, Department of Animal SciencesUniversity of GoettingenGoettingenGermany
| | - Daryl Codron
- Department of Zoology and EntomologyUniversity of the Free StateBloemfonteinSouth Africa
| | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse FacultyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Jean‐Michel Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse FacultyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
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Kraatz B, Belabbas R, Fostowicz-Frelik Ł, Ge DY, Kuznetsov AN, Lang MM, López-Torres S, Mohammadi Z, Racicot RA, Ravosa MJ, Sharp AC, Sherratt E, Silcox MT, Słowiak J, Winkler AJ, Ruf I. Lagomorpha as a Model Morphological System. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.636402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to their global distribution, invasive history, and unique characteristics, European rabbits are recognizable almost anywhere on our planet. Although they are members of a much larger group of living and extinct mammals [Mammalia, Lagomorpha (rabbits, hares, and pikas)], the group is often characterized by several well-known genera (e.g., Oryctolagus, Sylvilagus, Lepus, and Ochotona). This representation does not capture the extraordinary diversity of behavior and form found throughout the order. Model organisms are commonly used as exemplars for biological research, but there are a limited number of model clades or lineages that have been used to study evolutionary morphology in a more explicitly comparative way. We present this review paper to show that lagomorphs are a strong system in which to study macro- and micro-scale patterns of morphological change within a clade that offers underappreciated levels of diversity. To this end, we offer a summary of the status of relevant aspects of lagomorph biology.
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8
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Computational biomechanical modelling of the rabbit cranium during mastication. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13196. [PMID: 34162932 PMCID: PMC8222361 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92558-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Although a functional relationship between bone structure and mastication has been shown in some regions of the rabbit skull, the biomechanics of the whole cranium during mastication have yet to be fully explored. In terms of cranial biomechanics, the rabbit is a particularly interesting species due to its uniquely fenestrated rostrum, the mechanical function of which is debated. In addition, the rabbit processes food through incisor and molar biting within a single bite cycle, and the potential influence of these bite modes on skull biomechanics remains unknown. This study combined the in silico methods of multi-body dynamics and finite element analysis to compute musculoskeletal forces associated with a range of incisor and molar biting, and to predict the associated strains. The results show that the majority of the cranium, including the fenestrated rostrum, transmits masticatory strains. The peak strains generated over all bites were found to be attributed to both incisor and molar biting. This could be a consequence of a skull shape adapted to promote an even strain distribution for a combination of infrequent incisor bites and cyclic molar bites. However, some regions, such as the supraorbital process, experienced low peak strain for all masticatory loads considered, suggesting such regions are not designed to resist masticatory forces.
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9
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Artiles CA, Sanchez-Migallon Guzman D, Beaufrère H, Phillips KL. Computed tomographic findings of dental disease in domestic rabbits ( Oryctolagus cuniculus): 100 cases (2009-2017). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2021; 257:313-327. [PMID: 32657651 DOI: 10.2460/javma.257.3.313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the CT findings and epidemiological features of acquired dental disease in rabbits. ANIMALS 100 client-owned rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). PROCEDURES Medical records were searched to identify rabbits that underwent skull CT for any reason from 2009 to 2017. History, signalment, and physical examination findings were recorded. The CT images were reevaluated retrospectively for evidence of dental disease and graded according to a previously described system (from 1 [no evidence of disease] to 5 [severe dental disease]) for acquired dental disease in rabbits, and an overall (mean) grade was assigned. Descriptive analyses were performed. Factors were assessed for associations between dental disease grade and malocclusion stage. RESULTS Common findings included premolar or molar tooth curvature in transverse (n = 100 rabbits) and sagittal (95) planes, apical elongation of premolar or molar teeth (99), sharp dental points (93), deformation of the mandibular canal (82), and periodontal ligament space widening (76). Acquired dental disease was classified as grade 1 (n = 2 rabbits), 2 (60), 3 (14), 4 (4), or 5 (20). Most CT findings were significantly correlated with each other. Agreement of grades was fair between left- and right-sided quadrants and between maxillary and mandibular quadrants. Age was associated with increasing dental disease grade and malocclusion stage (proportional ORs, 1.21 and 1.32/y, respectively). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Fair agreement in disease grades between dental quadrant pairs indicated a degree of asynchrony in the development of dental disease. Findings suggested premolar or molar tooth curvature in a sagittal plane, subtle elongation at premolar or molar tooth apices, and mandibular canal deformation should be added to the grading system.
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10
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Peña T, Campoy L, de Matos R. Investigation of a maxillary nerve block technique in healthy New Zealand White rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Am J Vet Res 2020; 81:843-848. [PMID: 33107754 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.81.11.843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate use of a candidate maxillary nerve block in rabbits. ANIMALS 13 healthy New Zealand White rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). PROCEDURES In phase 1, the maxillary nerve block procedure was performed in 7 sedated rabbits with 2 volumes (0.25 and 0.5 mL) of a saline (0.9% NaCl)-tissue marker dye solution (1 injection/side by random assignment). Rabbits were euthanized and dissected; numeric scales were used to rate injection accuracy and extent of staining. In phase 2, the nerve block was performed with articaine hydrochloride-epinephrine solution (0.5 mL) on a randomly assigned side in 6 sedated rabbits, with the contralateral side used as a control. Sensory function of the relevant dermatome was tested in triplicate with an algesiometer 0, 30, and 90 minutes after recovery from sedation. Statistical methods were used to compare results between injection volumes (phase 1) and between treated and control sides (phase 2). RESULTS In phase 1, dye was in contact with the targeted nerve after 13 of 14 injections. Accuracy and extent of staining did not differ significantly between volumes. In phase 2, algesiometer-applied force tolerance differed significantly between treated and control sides 30 minutes after recovery from sedation (56 to 145 minutes after the nerve block procedure). No adverse effects were detected in either study phase. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The described technique for a maxillary nerve block was accurate and effective for desensitization of the relevant dermatome as assessed by algesiometry in healthy rabbits. Additional studies are needed to assess use of this procedure in rabbits of other breeds and its efficacy for clinical use. (Am J Vet Res 2020;81:843-848).
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Mäkitaipale J, Sankari S, Sievänen H, Laitinen-Vapaavuori O. The relationship between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and parathyroid hormone concentration in assessing vitamin D deficiency in pet rabbits. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:403. [PMID: 33109180 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02599-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitamin D deficiency and related metabolic bone diseases in pet rabbits have been intermittently debated. In human research, the parathyroid hormone concentration in relation to the 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration is used to determine vitamin D deficiency. Thus, this study aimed to identify the breakpoint in the 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration indicating a significant change in the parathyroid hormone concentration in 139 pet rabbits. An enzyme immunoassay kit was used for 25-hydroxyvitamin D analysis and the intact parathyroid hormone (PTH 1-84) immunoradiometric assay kit for parathyroid hormone analysis. The mid-tibial cortical bone density was measured using peripheral quantitative computed tomography. A segmented linear regression analysis was performed, with the 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration as the independent variable, and parathyroid hormone, ionised calcium, total calcium, inorganic phosphorus concentrations and the mid-tibial cortical density as the dependent variables. RESULTS The breakpoint for the parathyroid hormone concentration occurred at a 25(OH)D concentration of 17 ng/mL, whereas the cortical bone density breakpoint occurred at a 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration of 19 ng/mL. No breakpoints were found for ionised calcium, total calcium or phosphorus. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that a serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration of 17 ng/mL serves as the threshold for vitamin D deficiency in rabbits. Nearly one-third of the rabbits had a serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration below this threshold. Concerns persist regarding the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in pet rabbits and the possible health consequences caused by a chronic vitamin D deficiency, including the risk for metabolic bone diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mäkitaipale
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - S Sankari
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H Sievänen
- The UKK Institute for Health Promotion Research, Kaupinpuistonkatu 1, 33500, Tampere, Finland
| | - O Laitinen-Vapaavuori
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
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12
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Vergneau-Grosset C, Péron F. Effect of ultraviolet radiation on vertebrate animals: update from ethological and medical perspectives. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2020; 19:752-762. [PMID: 33856678 DOI: 10.1039/c9pp00488b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Many animals under human care are kept indoors to prevent infectious diseases vectored by wildlife, facilitate environment control, or due to the lifestyle of their owners. However, ultraviolet radiation has documented effects on animal vision, vitamin synthesis, immunity, behavior, psychogenic disorders and on their environment. Ultraviolet-emitting lights are commercially available and the documentation of their effect on indoor-housed animals is increasing. This article reviews published information about ultraviolet effects in vertebrate animals from veterinary and ethological perspectives, and techniques used to assess ultraviolet exposure across animal taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Vergneau-Grosset
- Department of Clinical sciences, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, J2S 2 M2, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada.
| | - Franck Péron
- 15 Rue de la Johardière, 44 800, Saint-Herblain, France
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13
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Watson MK, Mitchell MA, Stern AW, Labelle AL, Joslyn S, Fan TM, Cavaretta M, Kohles M, Marshall K. EVALUATING THE CLINICAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF LONG-TERM ULTRAVIOLET B RADIATION ON RABBITS (ORYCTOLAGUS CUNICULUS). J Exot Pet Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2018.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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14
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Mäkitaipale J, Sievänen H, Laitinen-Vapaavuori O. Tibial bone density, cross-sectional geometry and strength in Finnish pet rabbits: a peripheral quantitative computed tomography study. Vet Rec 2018; 183:382. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.104419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Mäkitaipale
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Helsinki; Helsinki Finland
| | - Harri Sievänen
- The UKK Institute for Health Promotion Research; Tampere Finland
| | - Outi Laitinen-Vapaavuori
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Helsinki; Helsinki Finland
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15
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Imai DM, Pesapane R, Conroy CJ, Alarcón CN, Allan N, Okino RA, Fung J, Murphy BG, Verstraete FJM, Foley JE. Apical Elongation of Molar Teeth in Captive Microtus Voles. Vet Pathol 2018; 55:572-583. [PMID: 29665753 DOI: 10.1177/0300985818758469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Molar apical elongation (MAE) was the leading cause for euthanasia or death in a captive breeding colony of endangered Amargosa voles ( Microtus californicus scirpensis). Clinical signs included ocular discharge, abnormal mastication, dyspnea, abnormal mentation, weight loss, and death. Although the severity varied, all molars in all quadrants were affected. When severe, the overgrown molar reserve crown and apex protruded into the nasal meatuses, the orbit, the calvarial vault and through the ventral margin of the mandible. Overall prevalence in the colony was 63% (92/146 voles) and increased to 77% in aged voles (>1 year). Mean age of onset was 5.3 months (1.7-11.2 months). Progression to extreme severity occurred over 1 to 3 months. Mean survival was 10.9 months (7.1-21.7 months). Histologically, the lesion was characterized by odontogenic hyperplasia and dysplasia. MAE was also documented in museum specimens of 2 other M. californicus subspecies ( M. californicus californicus, M. californicus vallicola) and 3 other Microtus species ( M. montanus, M. pennsylvanicus, M. socialis). In the M. californicus californicus collection, overall prevalence was 35.1% (129/368 skulls) and increased to 77.3% in aged voles (>1 year). A probable genetic influence was identified in the museum collection of M. californicus californicus. The etiopathogenesis of MAE is likely multifactorial, due to (1) inherent continuous odontogenic proliferation, (2) inadequate occlusal attrition, and (3) possible heritable disease susceptibility. In captivity, dietary or other management of occlusal attrition to prevent or delay MAE is a fundamental concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise M Imai
- 1 Comparative Pathology Laboratory, Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Risa Pesapane
- 2 Departments of Medicine & Epidemiology, Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Christopher J Conroy
- 3 Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Christina N Alarcón
- 1 Comparative Pathology Laboratory, Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Nora Allan
- 4 California Department of Fish & Wildlife, Wildlife Investigations Lab, Rancho Cordova, CA, USA
| | - Russell A Okino
- 3 Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Fung
- 2 Departments of Medicine & Epidemiology, Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Brian G Murphy
- 5 Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Frank J M Verstraete
- 6 Surgical & Radiological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.,These authors share last authorship
| | - Janet E Foley
- 7 School of Veterinary Medicine, and Center for Molecular & Genomic Imaging, Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.,These authors share last authorship
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16
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van Bolhuis H, van Hoffen L, van Zijll Langhout M, van Engeldorp Gastelaars H, Hendriks W, Lamberts M, Kik M. Prevalence of dental disorders in degus and evaluation of diagnostic methods to determine dental disease and its prognosis. Vet Rec 2017; 181:627. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.104253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lotte van Hoffen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Wouter Hendriks
- Department Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
- Department of Animal Sciences, Animal Nutrition Group; Wageningen University & Research; Wageningen The Netherlands
- Department of Farm Animal Health; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Marnix Lamberts
- Department of Veterinary Dentistry; Dierenkliniek Europaplein; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Marja Kik
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
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17
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Gardhouse S, Sanchez-Migallon Guzman D, Paul-Murphy J, Byrne BA, Hawkins MG. Bacterial isolates and antimicrobial susceptibilities from odontogenic abscesses in rabbits: 48 cases. Vet Rec 2017; 181:538. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.103996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Gardhouse
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital; Davis California USA
| | - David Sanchez-Migallon Guzman
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology; School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California; Davis California USA
| | - Joanne Paul-Murphy
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology; School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California; Davis California USA
| | - Barbara A Byrne
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology; School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California; Davis California USA
| | - Michelle G Hawkins
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology; School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California; Davis California USA
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18
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Benato
- MRCVS; CityVets; Rosary House, 27 Fore St Exeter EX1 2QJ UK
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19
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Abstract
Rabbit medicine has been continuously evolving over time with increasing popularity and demand. Tremendous advances have been made in rabbit medicine over the past 5 years, including the use of imaging tools for otitis and dental disease management, the development of laboratory testing for encephalitozoonosis, or determination of prognosis in rabbits. Recent pharmacokinetic studies have been published, providing additional information on commonly used antibiotics and motility-enhancer drugs, as well as benzimidazole toxicosis. This article presents a review of evidence-based advances for liver lobe torsions, thymoma, and dental disease in rabbits and controversial and new future promising areas in rabbit medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noémie M Summa
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Montreal, 3200, rue Sicotte, PO 5000, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - João Brandão
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, 2065 West Farm Road, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
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20
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Harcourt-Brown F. Reflections on rabbit diets. J Small Anim Pract 2017; 58:123-124. [DOI: 10.1111/jsap.12660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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21
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Kucera J, Koristkova T, Gottwaldova B, Jekl V. Calcium sulfate dihydrate urolithiasis in a pet rabbit. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2017; 250:534-537. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.250.5.534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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22
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An Investigation into the Relationship between Owner Knowledge, Diet, and Dental Disease in Guinea Pigs (Cavia porcellus). Animals (Basel) 2016; 6:ani6110073. [PMID: 27854241 PMCID: PMC5126775 DOI: 10.3390/ani6110073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Dental disease is a serious problem in small mammals, with cases in rabbits well documented. Guinea pigs also suffer from this condition, yet the literature investigating the underlying causes in guinea pigs is limited. Owners of guinea pigs were surveyed to investigate what they fed their animals. It was discovered that there was no relationship between the overall diet of the animals and whether or not they had been diagnosed with dental disease or displayed clinical signs of the disease. However, the environment was important, with animals that had access to the outside, including the use of runs on both concrete and grass, less likely to display clinical signs of disease. Some of the clinical signs of dental disease in guinea pigs, including difficulty eating, were related to dental problems. These findings are important, as many guinea pigs may not have continuous access to the outdoors. Dental disease is a serious welfare concern, as many owners may not pick up on the clinical signs, leaving animals susceptible to pain, dysphagia, malnutrition, and secondary infection. It is important that owners are aware of key clinical signs, particularly in multi-animal households where monitoring food consumption may be challenging. Abstract Recent studies have highlighted a high prevalence of dental disease in domestic guinea pigs, yet the aetiology of this multi-factorial disease is still unclear. Factors that have been associated with dental disease include feeding a diet that is high in energy but low in fibre, feeding an insufficiently abrasive diet, a lack of dietary calcium, and genetics. As many of these factors relate to the husbandry requirements of guinea pigs, owner awareness of dietary requirements is of the utmost importance. An online questionnaire was created based on previous research into the husbandry and feeding of rabbits. Guinea pig owners were asked to answer questions on the clinical history of their animals and their diet and management. In total, 150 surveys were completed for 344 guinea pigs, where owners of multiple animals could complete the survey for individuals. According to the owners, 6.7% of guinea pigs had been clinically diagnosed with dental disease, but 16.6% had signs consistent with dental disease. The specific clinical signs of having difficulty eating (Exp(B) = 33.927, Nagelkerke R2 = 0.301, p < 0.05) and producing fewer or smaller faecal droppings (Exp(B) = 13.733, Nagelkerke R2 = 0.149, p < 0.05) were predictive for the presence of dental disease. Having access to an outside environment, including the use of runs on both concrete and grass, was significantly related to not displaying clinical signs of dental disease (Exp(B) = 1.894, Nagelkerke R2 = 0.021, p < 0.05). There was no significant relationship between owner knowledge, guinea pig diet, and dental disease in the study population. This study highlights the importance of access to the outdoors for the health and welfare of guinea pigs in addition to the need for owners to be alert to key clinical signs. A relationship between diet and dental disease was not identified in this study; however, the underlying aetiological causes of this condition require further investigation.
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24
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Wyss F, Müller J, Clauss M, Kircher P, Geyer H, von Rechenberg B, Hatt JM. Measuring Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) Tooth Growth and Eruption by Fluorescence Markers and Bur Marks. J Vet Dent 2016; 33:39-46. [PMID: 27487654 DOI: 10.1177/0898756416640956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and rodents possess continuously growing teeth, and dental problems are a major health issue in these species. Knowledge of tooth growth characteristics is required to adequately treat dental problems and advise owners concerning diets. Most research was performed using bur marks and measuring eruption and wear manually. However, this method cannot be applied to teeth less rostral than the first premolar; therefore, for evaluation of molars, other methods are needed. We evaluated the use of fluorochromes xylenol orange and calcein green to measure growth rates of rabbit teeth and compared this method to results obtained by manually measuring the distance between a bur mark and the gingival margin of the same tooth (eruption) and by measuring the distance between the bur mark and the apex of the same tooth on computed tomography scans (growth). Apical fluorochrome measurements correlated well with eruption and growth rates obtained with bur marks, whereas measurements coronal to the pulp cavity did not. Growth rates were approximately 1.9 mm/wk for maxillary and 2.2 mm/wk for mandibular incisors. Growth rates of premolars were 2.14 ± 0.28 mm/wk in rabbits on a grass/rice hulls/sand pelleted diet and 0.93 ± 0.18 mm/wk in rabbits on a hay diet. Growth of molars could only be assessed using the measurement in dentin on the wall of the pulp cavity, which does not account for the real growth. However, being similar to this measurement in premolars, one could hypothesize similar growth in molars as in premolars. We conclude that the application of fluorochrome staining can be used to measure tooth growth in teeth that are not accessible for bur marks or in animals that are too small to assess tooth eruption or growth by bur marks.
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Anatomy, Physiology and Non-dental Disorders of the Mouth of Pet Rabbits. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2016; 19:737-56. [PMID: 27497204 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2016.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The first part of this review focuses on the anatomy and physiology of the rabbit mouth. Practical understanding is critical to comprehend the dynamic pathologic changes of dental disease, which is one of the most common presenting problems in rabbits. The major theories of the etiopathogenesis of dental disease are presented. The second part focuses on non-dental oral disorders, which encompass only a small incidence of stomatognathic diseases when compared with dental disease. These diseases are primarily composed of infections (treponematosis, oral papillomatosis), neoplasia (frequently involving calcified tissue proliferation), and congenital abnormalities (mandibular prognathism, absent peg teeth, supernumerary peg teeth).
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26
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Korn AK, Brandt HR, Erhardt G. Genetic and environmental factors influencing tooth and jaw malformations in rabbits. Vet Rec 2016; 178:341. [PMID: 26908159 DOI: 10.1136/vr.103293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Tooth alterations of 281 rabbits from 10 different breeds were evaluated, starting at the age of three weeks until they were fully grown. All rabbits were kept in an outdoor facility, fed with a pelleted diet and had free access to water and hay. The most common finding in 3182 clinical examinations was a gap between the mandibular incisors (38 per cent). Skull X-rays from 4 adult breeding rabbits, 15 offspring with clinical signs of dental disease and 12 clinically healthy siblings were assessed by two different methods using cephalometric distances and anatomical reference lines. Repeatabilities of cephalometric distances were mostly low and no significant associations to tooth health were found. The anatomical reference lines revealed dental findings even in rabbits that were graded as tooth healthy in previous clinical examinations. On the basis of the demonstrated age-dependent development of tooth and jaw malformations a first examination and selection at the age of 12 weeks can be recommended. Also genetic aspects for tooth and jaw malformations were considered. The estimated heritability for brachygnathia superior was 0.254 ± 0.169 for all examinations and 0.105 ± 0.092 comprising the last examination of each rabbit when fully grown.
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Affiliation(s)
- A K Korn
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Justus-Liebig-University, Ludwigstrasse 21b, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - H R Brandt
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Justus-Liebig-University, Ludwigstrasse 21b, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - G Erhardt
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Justus-Liebig-University, Ludwigstrasse 21b, 35390 Giessen, Germany
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27
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Watson PJ, Gröning F, Curtis N, Fitton LC, Herrel A, McCormack SW, Fagan MJ. Masticatory biomechanics in the rabbit: a multi-body dynamics analysis. J R Soc Interface 2015; 11:rsif.2014.0564. [PMID: 25121650 PMCID: PMC4233732 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2014.0564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Multi-body dynamics is a powerful engineering tool which is becoming increasingly popular for the simulation and analysis of skull biomechanics. This paper presents the first application of multi-body dynamics to analyse the biomechanics of the rabbit skull. A model has been constructed through the combination of manual dissection and three-dimensional imaging techniques (magnetic resonance imaging and micro-computed tomography). Individual muscles are represented with multiple layers, thus more accurately modelling muscle fibres with complex lines of action. Model validity was sought through comparing experimentally measured maximum incisor bite forces with those predicted by the model. Simulations of molar biting highlighted the ability of the masticatory system to alter recruitment of two muscle groups, in order to generate shearing or crushing movements. Molar shearing is capable of processing a food bolus in all three orthogonal directions, whereas molar crushing and incisor biting are predominately directed vertically. Simulations also show that the masticatory system is adapted to process foods through several cycles with low muscle activations, presumably in order to prevent rapidly fatiguing fast fibres during repeated chewing cycles. Our study demonstrates the usefulness of a validated multi-body dynamics model for investigating feeding biomechanics in the rabbit, and shows the potential for complementing and eventually reducing in vivo experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Watson
- Medical and Biological Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Flora Gröning
- Musculoskeletal Research Programme, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Neil Curtis
- Medical and Biological Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Laura C Fitton
- Centre for Anatomical and Human Sciences, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Anthony Herrel
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Case postale 55, Paris Cedex 5 75231, France Evolutionary Morphology of Vertebrates, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Steven W McCormack
- Medical and Biological Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Michael J Fagan
- Medical and Biological Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
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28
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Rooney NJ, Blackwell EJ, Mullan SM, Saunders R, Baker PE, Hill JM, Sealey CE, Turner MJ, Held SDE. The current state of welfare, housing and husbandry of the English pet rabbit population. BMC Res Notes 2014; 7:942. [PMID: 25532711 PMCID: PMC4307134 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-7-942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The welfare of pet rabbits is an area of growing interest in Europe and the UK. This study analyses questionnaire results from a diverse population of 1254 rabbit owners from three different geographical areas in England with the aim of providing an accurate representation of how pet rabbits are currently housed and cared for and key aspects of their health and welfare. RESULTS Rabbits were kept in a variety of different housing types, the most common being a traditional hutch/cage (59%). Although the majority had additional exercise areas, access was often unpredictable, or ill-timed, which may compromise welfare. Only 41.9% of owners kept their rabbit with conspecifics, limiting their ability to engage in social behaviour. Of those rabbits housed with a companion, although many were reported to be amicable and to engage in positive interactions, over a quarter were reported to fight at least occasionally (25.3%), whilst 22.7% guarded resources and 27.1% avoided one another. Whilst low levels of some of these behaviours may be a normal part of social interaction, the relatively high levels reported here suggest that not all cohabiting pairs of rabbits are compatible, which is potentially a significant welfare issue.Although the vast majority of owners fed hay for over 10% this was less than daily. Pelleted foods were very popular (71.4% at least daily) compared to commercial muesli mixes (32.6%). As in previous studies, dental problems were commonly reported (12.2% of rabbits); however, so were eye problems (12.9%), digestive problems (11.5%) and parasites (11.3%). A large proportion of rabbits (58%) were thought to be fearful of loud noises, and 61% were not reported as calm when handled by their owner, which may be a significant concern for this species. CONCLUSION This study has confirmed and expanded on previous findings: many pet rabbits were found to be in good health, had compatible companions and were provided with enriched living areas. However, it also found numerous welfare issues that affect large numbers of pet rabbits. We suggest further studies are required exploring the accuracy of owner reports (which possibly under-report many problems) and prioritising the issues raised here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola J Rooney
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Emily J Blackwell
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Siobhan M Mullan
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Richard Saunders
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Paula E Baker
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Jenna M Hill
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Clare E Sealey
- />CAPITA Secure Information Solutions, Methuen Park, Bath Rd, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 0TW England
| | - Matthew J Turner
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Suzanne DE Held
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
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29
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Watson MK, Stern AW, Labelle AL, Joslyn S, Fan TM, Leister K, Kohles M, Marshall K, Mitchell MA. Evaluating the clinical and physiological effects of long term ultraviolet B radiation on guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus). PLoS One 2014; 9:e114413. [PMID: 25517408 PMCID: PMC4269393 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D is an important hormone in vertebrates. Most animals acquire this hormone through their diet, secondary to exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, or a combination thereof. The objectives for this research were to evaluate the clinical and physiologic effects of artificial UVB light supplementation on guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) and to evaluate the long-term safety of artificial UVB light supplementation over the course of six months. Twelve juvenile acromelanic Hartley guinea pigs were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: Group A was exposed to 12 hours of artificial UVB radiation daily and Group B received only ambient fluorescent light for 12 hours daily. Animals in both groups were offered the same diet and housed under the same conditions. Blood samples were collected every three weeks to measure blood chemistry values, parathyroid hormone, ionized calcium, and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-OHD3) levels. Serial ophthalmologic examinations, computed tomography scans, and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry scans were performed during the course of the study. At the end of the study the animals were euthanized and necropsied. Mean ± SD serum 25-OHD3 concentrations differed significantly in the guinea pigs (p<0.0001) between the UVB supplementation group (101.49±21.81 nmol/L) and the control group (36.33±24.42 nmol/L). An increased corneal thickness in both eyes was also found in the UVB supplementation compared to the control group (right eye [OD]: p<0.0001; left eye [OS]: p<0.0001). There were no apparent negative clinical or pathologic side effects noted between the groups. This study found that exposing guinea pigs to UVB radiation long term significantly increased their circulating serum 25-OHD3 levels, and that this increase was sustainable over time. Providing guinea pigs exposure to UVB may be an important husbandry consideration that is not currently recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan K. Watson
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Adam W. Stern
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Amber L. Labelle
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Stephen Joslyn
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Timothy M. Fan
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Katie Leister
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Micah Kohles
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America; Oxbow Animal Health, Murdock, Nebraska, United States of America
| | | | - Mark A. Mitchell
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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30
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Watson MK, Mitchell MA. Vitamin D and Ultraviolet B Radiation Considerations for Exotic Pets. J Exot Pet Med 2014. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2014.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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31
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Müller J, Clauss M, Codron D, Schulz E, Hummel J, Kircher P, Hatt JM. Tooth length and incisal wear and growth in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) fed diets of different abrasiveness. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2014; 99:591-604. [PMID: 25041439 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Dental diseases are among the most important reasons for presenting guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) and other rodents to veterinary clinics, but the aetiopathology of this disease complex is unclear. Clinicians tend to believe that the ever-growing teeth of rabbits and rodents have a constant growth that needs to be worn down by the mastication of an appropriate diet. In this study, we tested the effect of four different pelleted diets of increasing abrasiveness [due to both internal (phytoliths) and external abrasives (sand)] or whole grass hay fed for 2 weeks each in random order to 16 guinea pigs on incisor growth and wear, and tooth length of incisors and cheek teeth. There was a positive correlation between wear and growth of incisors. Tooth lengths depended both on internal and external abrasives, but only upper incisors were additionally affected by the feeding of whole hay. Diet effects were most prominent in anterior cheek teeth, in particular M1 and m1. Cheek tooth angle did not become shallower with decreasing diet abrasiveness, suggesting that a lack of dietary abrasiveness does not cause the typical 'bridge formation' of anterior cheek teeth frequently observed in guinea pigs. The findings suggest that other factors than diet abrasiveness, such as mineral imbalances and in particular hereditary malocclusion, are more likely causes for dental problems observed in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Müller
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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32
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Müller J, Clauss M, Codron D, Schulz E, Hummel J, Fortelius M, Kircher P, Hatt JM. Growth and wear of incisor and cheek teeth in domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) fed diets of different abrasiveness. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 321:283-98. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.1864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2013] [Revised: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Müller
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Daryl Codron
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
- Florisbad Quaternary Research; National Museum; Bloemfontein South Africa
| | - Ellen Schulz
- Biocenter Grindel and Zoological Museum; University of Hamburg; Hamburg Germany
| | - Jürgen Hummel
- Department of Animal Sciences; Ruminant Nutrition; Georg-August University; Göttingen Germany
| | - Mikael Fortelius
- Department of Geosciences and Geography; University of Helsinki; Helsinki Finland
| | - Patrick Kircher
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Jean-Michel Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
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