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Mascaró Triedo CE, Karar S, Abunemeh M, Portier K. Effect of nose twitching on the pupillary dilation in awake and anesthetized horses. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1412755. [PMID: 39036796 PMCID: PMC11258756 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1412755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Pupillometry is used in humans to monitor pain, nociception and analgesia. This single-center, non-randomized, non-blinded intervention trial, evaluated the effect of nose twitching on the pupil size in awake, sedated, and anesthetized horses. Pupil height (H) and length (L) were measured before (Be) and after (Af) nose twitching in fourteen non-painful adult awake horses (T0). The percentage of variation (PSV) was calculated (PSVTn = [(TnAf-TnBe)/TnBe]*100). Measurements were repeated (Tn) after acepromazine (0.04 mg kg-1 IV) (T1), romifidine (0.04 mg kg-1 IV) (T2), morphine (0.1 mg kg-1 IV) (T3), after anesthesia induction with diazepam (0.05 mg kg-1 IV) and ketamine (2.2 mg kg-1 IV), at the time the horse was placed on the operating table (T4) and when the expiratory fraction of sevoflurane was 2% (T5). HAf vs. HBe, LAf vs. LBe as well as PSVH vs. PSVL at each time were compared with a Mann-Whitney Wilcoxon test. The PSVL and PSVH, as well as HBe and LBe over time were compared with the Skillings-Mack test followed by a Wilcoxon test for paired data to make pairwise comparisons (Tn + 1 vs. Tn). In non-sedated horses (T0), the application of the nose twitch induced a significant increase in pupil length (LT0Be: 17.09 [16.05; 19.67] mm versus LT0Af: 19.52 [18.74; 21.40]) mm (p = 0.004). Thirty minutes after acepromazine administration (T1), nose twitching induced a significant increase in pupil length (LT1Be: 16.45 [14.80; 18.66] mm versus LT1Af 18.31 [17.20; 20.52] mm) (p = 0.016) and height (HT1Be: 8.44 [5.68; 12.04] mm versus HT1Af: 11.09 [7.97; 14.3] mm) (p < 0.001). PSVHT1 was significantly greater than PSVLT1 (p = 0.025). PSVH was higher at T1 than at T0 (p = 0.04). It was also significantly higher at T1 than at T2 (p < 0.001). Romifidine induced mydriasis (HT2Be 16.95 [14.73; 18.77] mm versus HT1Be 8.44 [5.68; 12.04] mm) (p < 0,001) (LT2Be 19.66 [18.45; 20.41] mm versus LT1Be 16.45 [14.80; 18.66] mm) (p < 0.001). The results suggest that nose twitching induced a pupillary dilation in the awake horse. This effect was potentiated after the administration of acepromazine but disappeared after the administration of romifidine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sahra Karar
- VetAgro Sup, CREFAC, Université de Lyon, Marcy l’Etoile, France
| | - Maha Abunemeh
- VetAgro Sup, CREFAC, Université de Lyon, Marcy l’Etoile, France
| | - Karine Portier
- VetAgro Sup, CREFAC, Université de Lyon, Marcy l’Etoile, France
- Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, INSERM, CRNL U1028 UMR5292, Trajectoire, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Bron, France
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Cui W, Liu M, Gu T, Zhao S, Yin G. Multi-dimensional evaluation of pain response in low day-age calves to two types of dehorning. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1406576. [PMID: 38840635 PMCID: PMC11150829 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1406576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dehorning calves is necessary to minimize injury because intensive raising circumstances make horned cows more aggressive. However, acute pain is commonly perceived by farm animals when undergoing painful practices such as dehorning, affecting their health status and quality of life. By quantifying the magnitude of pain and discomfort associated with dehorning, we aim to contribute to a more humane and sustainable cattle farming industry. Methods The objective of this study was to evaluate the behavioral, physiological, and emotional effects of acute dehorning pain in calves using two methods: dehorning cream and dehorning hot-iron.30 Holstein calves aged 4 days were selected for the study. These calves were randomly assigned to two experimental groups based on the method of disbudding: dehorning cream (n = 15) and hot-iron dehorning (n = 15). Before and after dehorning, we evaluated their physiological indicators of infrared eye temperature, concentrations of substance P, IL-6, cortisol, haptoglobin, as well as emotional state, and pain-related behavioral reactions. Results Post-dehorning, the duration of lying down decreased significantly in both groups (DI and DC: 0-4 h) after dehorning (p < 0.05). Both groups exhibited increased frequencies of pain-related behaviors such as head shaking (DI: 1-7 h, DC: 1-6 h), ear flicking (DI: 2-7 h, DC: 2-7 h), head scratching (DI: 2-3 h, DC: 1-7 h), and top scuffing (DI: 2 h, DC: 2-7 h) compared to pre-dehorning (p < 0.05). The DC group demonstrated a higher frequency of head-shaking, ear-flicking, head-scratching, and top-rubbing behaviors, along with a longer duration of lying down (0-4 h), compared to the DI group (p < 0.05). Post-dehorning, play behavior reduced significantly in both groups (6-8 h) (p < 0.05), whereas judgment bias and fear levels showed no significant change (p > 0.05). Physiological measures including eye temperature, and blood levels of substance P and IL-6, did not differ significantly between the groups before and after dehorning (p > 0.05). However, 48 h after dehorning, calves in the DC group had significantly higher haptoglobin levels compared to the DI group (p = 0.015). Additionally, salivary cortisol levels in the DC group increased significantly at 3.5 h and 7 h post-dehorning (p = 0.018, p = 0.043). Discussion Both hot-iron and cream dehorning induced pain in calves, as evidenced by increased pain-related behaviors, elevated salivary cortisol, and higher haptoglobin levels, alongside reduced positive behaviors. Notably, these effects were more pronounced in the DC group than in the DI group, suggesting that dehorning hot-iron may be a comparatively less stressful dehorning method for young calves. Moreover, the brief duration of pain response and weaker response to dehorning observed in 13-day-age calves in this study suggests that dehorning at younger ages may be more advisable and warrants further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiguo Cui
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Mengyu Liu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Tianyu Gu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Shuai Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Innovative Utilization of White Goose Germplasm Resources in the Cold Region of Heilongjiang Province, Daqing, China
| | - Guoan Yin
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Innovative Utilization of White Goose Germplasm Resources in the Cold Region of Heilongjiang Province, Daqing, China
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Hasegawa M, Sasaki M, Umemoto Y, Hayashi R, Hatanaka A, Hosoki M, Farag A, Matsuura K, Yoshida T, Shimada K, Hamabe L, Takahashi K, Tanaka R. Exploring sleep heart rate variability: linear, nonlinear, and circadian rhythm perspectives. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1386425. [PMID: 38665772 PMCID: PMC11044001 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1386425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Heart rate variability (HRV) is believed to possess the potential for disease detection. However, early identification of heart disease remains challenging, as HRV analysis in dogs primarily reflects the advanced stages of the disease. Hypothesis/objective The aim of this study is to compare 24-h HRV with sleep HRV to assess the potential utility of sleep HRV analysis. Animals Thirty healthy dogs with no echocardiographic abnormalities were included in the study, comprising 23 females and 7 males ranging in age from 2 months to 8 years (mean [standard deviation], 1.4 [1.6]). Methods This study employed a cross-sectional study. 24-h HRV and sleep HRV were measured from 48-h Holter recordings. Both linear analysis, a traditional method of heart rate variability analysis, and nonlinear analysis, a novel approach, were conducted. Additionally, circadian rhythm parameters were assessed. Results In frequency analysis of linear analysis, the parasympathetic index nHF was significantly higher during sleep compared to the mean 24-h period (mean sleep HRV [standard deviation] vs. mean 24 h [standard deviation], 95% confidence interval, p value, r-family: 0.24 [0.057] vs. 0.23 [0.045], 0.006-0.031, p = 0.005, r = 0.49). Regarding time domain analysis, the parasympathetic indices SDNN and RMSSD were also significantly higher during sleep (SDNN: 179.7 [66.9] vs. 156.6 [53.2], 14.5-31.7, p < 0.001, r = 0.71 RMSSD: 187.0 [74.0] vs. 165.4 [62.2], 13.2-30.0, p < 0.001, r = 0.70). In a geometric method of nonlinear analysis, the parasympathetic indices SD1 and SD2 showed significantly higher values during sleep (SD1: 132.4 [52.4] vs. 117.1 [44.0], 9.3-21.1, p < 0.001, r = 0.70 SD2: 215.0 [80.5] vs. 185.9 [62.0], 17.6-40.6, p < 0.001, r = 0.69). Furthermore, the circadian rhythm items of the parasympathetic indices SDNN, RMSSD, SD1, and SD2 exhibited positive peaks during sleep. Conclusion The findings suggest that focusing on HRV during sleep can provide a more accurate representation of parasympathetic activity, as it captures the peak circadian rhythm items.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mizuki Hasegawa
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
- Yokohama Isogo Animal Hospital, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Mayuko Sasaki
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yui Umemoto
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rio Hayashi
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akari Hatanaka
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Marino Hosoki
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ahmed Farag
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsuhiro Matsuura
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Tomohiko Yoshida
- Department of Small Animal Medical Center, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kazumi Shimada
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Lina Hamabe
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken Takahashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Juntendo University, Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ryou Tanaka
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
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Eichler F, Ehrle A, Machnik M, Jensen KC, Wagner S, Baudisch N, Bolk J, Pötzsch M, Thevis M, Bäumer W, Lischer C, Wiegard M. Behavioral observations, heart rate and cortisol monitoring in horses following multiple oral administrations of a cannabidiol containing paste (part 2/2). Front Vet Sci 2024; 10:1305873. [PMID: 38234983 PMCID: PMC10791836 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1305873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
As a remedy against stress and anxiety, cannabidiol (CBD) products are of increasing interest in veterinary medicine. Limited data is available describing the actual effectiveness of CBD in horses. The aim of this study (part 2 of 2) was to analyze stress parameters via behavioral observation, heart rate monitoring and assessment of blood and saliva cortisol levels in healthy horses treated repeatedly with a CBD containing paste. Twelve horses were randomly assigned to a treatment or a control group. Two pastes were orally administered in a double-blinded study design, one paste containing CBD and one paste without active ingredient. Both pastes were administered twice daily over 15 days (dose: 3 mg CBD/kg). Behavioral observations were conducted daily using a sedation score and a rating of facial expressions, based on the previously described facial sedation scale for horses (FaceSed) and the Horse Grimace Scale. Blood and saliva samples were obtained regularly to determine cortisol levels throughout the study. Cortisol levels were analyzed by means of liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). Behavioral observations and cortisol levels were compared between groups. Prior to paste administration, a novel object test was performed and the horses' reaction to loading on a trailer was recorded. Both tests were repeated after 13 days of paste application. Movement patterns such as different gaits during the novel object test were evaluated and an ethogram was designed to assess exhibited behavioral traits. Cardiac beat-to-beat (R-R) intervals were recorded throughout and evaluated using heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters. Blood and saliva samples for cortisol analysis were taken before and after the tests. Daily behavioral observations and cortisol levels did not differ between the treatment and the control group. Similarly, analysis of movement patterns, HR, HRV and cortisol levels during the novel object test and trailer test did not identify significant differences between the groups. Regularly administered oral CBD (3 mg/kg BID over 15 days) had no statistically significant effect on behavioral observations, cortisol levels, HR and HRV in horses. Further research is required to establish adequate doses and indications for the use of CBD in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Eichler
- Equine Clinic, Veterinary Hospital Freie Universität Berlin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anna Ehrle
- Equine Clinic, Veterinary Hospital Freie Universität Berlin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marc Machnik
- Center for Preventive Doping Research, Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Katharina Charlotte Jensen
- Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sabrina Wagner
- Center for Preventive Doping Research, Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Natalie Baudisch
- Equine Clinic, Veterinary Hospital Freie Universität Berlin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Bolk
- Equine Clinic, Veterinary Hospital Freie Universität Berlin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Magdalena Pötzsch
- Equine Clinic, Veterinary Hospital Freie Universität Berlin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mario Thevis
- Center for Preventive Doping Research, Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Bäumer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Lischer
- Equine Clinic, Veterinary Hospital Freie Universität Berlin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mechthild Wiegard
- Institute of Animal Welfare, Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Gruber N, Gesell-May S, Scholler D, Zablotski Y, May A. Evaluation of substance P as a biomarker for pain in equine colic. J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 132:104979. [PMID: 38072227 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104979] [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] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Equine colic is an important condition associated with acute abdominal pain and one of the leading causes of death in horses. As such, objectively evaluating pain is of interest for attending veterinarians. Pain scales for assessment are present, but no single pain-specific biomarker has been reported. The aim of this study was to determine if substance P (SP) could be a reliable biomarker to reflect pain and serve as a parameter to predict outcome in equine colic. The hypothesis was that horses displaying severe colic signs present with higher values of SP in contrast to those with mild colic signs. Thirty warmblood horses, aged between 3 and 20 years were recruited; evenly distributed (10 horses each) in three colic groups (mild, moderate, severe). To classify the colic signs, the horses were graded by the Equine Acute Abdominal Pain Scale (EAAPS). Clinical examination and EAAPS were performed at arrival in the hospital. Blood samples were collected four times in hourly intervals commencing from arrival. For comparison, already established parameters for prognosticating equine colic (heart rate, serum cortisol, and blood lactate concentration) were also measured. The assumption of increasing SP concentrations along with pain could not be confirmed. SP did not show any association with heart rate, cortisol, lactate, or EAAPS. Whereas the established parameters increased according to the EAAPS, SP remained stable in individual horses regardless of clinical signs, treatment, and disease progression. Consequently, SP was not a reliable parameter to reflect painful conditions or to predict outcome in equine colic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Gruber
- Equine Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, Sonnenstrasse 14, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | | | - Dominik Scholler
- Equine Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, Sonnenstrasse 14, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Yury Zablotski
- Clinic for Ruminants, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, Sonnenstrasse 13, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Anna May
- Equine Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, Sonnenstrasse 14, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany.
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Pennington E, Springer C, Albright J, Castel A. Evaluation of different methods of environmental enrichment to control anxiety in dogs undergoing hemilaminectomy after acute intervertebral disc extrusion: a randomized double-blinded study. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1124982. [PMID: 37323840 PMCID: PMC10267703 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1124982] [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: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The goal of this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study was to evaluate the effect of environmental enrichment (EE) on post-operative pain and anxiety in dogs following hemilaminectomy for acute intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE). Methods Twenty healthy client-owned dogs undergoing a hemilaminectomy for IVDE with the same immediate post-operative analgesia protocol were randomly assigned to either the EE or standard environment (SE) group post-operatively. Recovery was achieved in an intensive care room (SE) or a separate quiet room (EE) equipped with white noise and classical music. EE dogs were also exposed to dog-appeasing pheromones, essential oil scents, and positive human interactions and were provided meals through food toys. A blinded evaluator assessed all dogs using the modified Glasgow Composite Pain Scale (mGCPS) on presentation and at several time points post-operatively. A rescue injection of the opioid methadone was given to the dogs with an mGCPS score of ≥5/20. Dogs received the antidepressant trazodone when anxious behaviors (5 mg/kg) were observed. The mGCPS scores, the latencies to receive the first methadone and trazodone doses and to eat the first meal, the number of methadone and trazodone doses, and the number of meals ingested in the first 24 and 48 h post-surgery were compared using Wilcoxon tests, and Benjamini-Hochberg correction for false discovery rate was applied. Results Although median mGCPS scores did not differ between the groups, compared to SE dogs (n = 10), EE dogs (n = 6) received trazodone earlier (p = 0.019), were administered fewer methadone injections at 24 h (p = 0.043), and ate more at 48 h post-surgery (p = 0.007). Therefore, EE and anti-anxiety medications could be beneficial in improving the wellbeing of dogs post-operatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellery Pennington
- Small Animal Clinical Sciences, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Cary Springer
- Small Animal Clinical Sciences, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Julia Albright
- Small Animal Clinical Sciences, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Aude Castel
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
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Layton R, Layton D, Beggs D, Fisher A, Mansell P, Stanger KJ. The impact of stress and anesthesia on animal models of infectious disease. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1086003. [PMID: 36816193 PMCID: PMC9933909 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1086003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress and general anesthesia have an impact on the functional response of the organism due to the detrimental effects on cardiovascular, immunological, and metabolic function, which could limit the organism's response to an infectious event. Animal studies have formed an essential step in understanding and mitigating infectious diseases, as the complexities of physiology and immunity cannot yet be replicated in vivo. Using animals in research continues to come under increasing societal scrutiny, and it is therefore crucial that the welfare of animals used in disease research is optimized to meet both societal expectations and improve scientific outcomes. Everyday management and procedures in animal studies are known to cause stress, which can not only cause poorer welfare outcomes, but also introduces variables in disease studies. Whilst general anesthesia is necessary at times to reduce stress and enhance animal welfare in disease research, evidence of physiological and immunological disruption caused by general anesthesia is increasing. To better understand and quantify the effects of stress and anesthesia on disease study and welfare outcomes, utilizing the most appropriate animal monitoring strategies is imperative. This article aims to analyze recent scientific evidence about the impact of stress and anesthesia as uncontrolled variables, as well as reviewing monitoring strategies and technologies in animal models during infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Layton
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, CSIRO, Geelong, VIC, Australia,*Correspondence: Rachel Layton ✉
| | - Daniel Layton
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, CSIRO, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - David Beggs
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew Fisher
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Mansell
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kelly J. Stanger
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, CSIRO, Geelong, VIC, Australia
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Perceptions of Fear and Anxiety in Horses as Reported in Interviews with Equine Behaviourists. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12212904. [PMID: 36359029 PMCID: PMC9658478 DOI: 10.3390/ani12212904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Previous studies have identified that people are poor at recognising fear and pain in horses, consequently leading to one of the key welfare concerns for horses in the United Kingdom. Given that equine behaviourists are uniquely placed to understand how horse caregivers perceive fear and anxiety in their horses, this study examined the experiences of registered equine behaviourists working with horse caregivers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine participants and analysed using thematic analysis. Three key response themes emerged: caregivers are extremely poor at recognizing fear and anxiety in horses; some clients do recognise behavioural signs indicating fear and/or anxiety but only the overt signs (e.g., rearing, running away) rather than the more subtle signs (e.g., tension in face, subtle avoidance behaviours such as a hesitant gait); and fear and/or anxiety behaviour is often misinterpreted or mislabelled. This study has provided initial insights into the lack of recognition of fear and anxiety of horses by their caregivers in the United Kingdom, together with tried and tested approaches to conversations to change this. Abstract One of the key welfare concerns for horses in the United Kingdom is lack of recognition of fear in horses. This study aimed to gain an understanding of how well horse care givers recognise fear and/or anxiety in horses by interviewing equine behaviourists (who interact with large numbers of horse care givers and talk to them about this topic routinely). The experiences of Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC)-registered equine behaviourists working with horse caregivers were examined, including the ability of clients to recognise fear and/or anxiety in horses, how clients respond when discussing fear as the reason for their horse’s behaviour, and what explanations the participants use to explain fear and anxiety. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine participants and analysed using thematic analysis before being written up to reflect the discussion points. When asked how well horse caregivers recognise fear and/or anxiety in horses, three key response themes emerged: caregivers are extremely poor at recognizing fear and anxiety in horses; some clients do recognise behavioural signs indicating fear and/or anxiety but only the overt signs (e.g., rearing, running away) rather than the more subtle signs (e.g., tension in face, subtle avoidance behaviours such as a hesitant gait); and fear and/or anxiety behaviour is often misinterpreted or mislabelled. These key themes recurred throughout several other interview questions. This study has provided initial insights into the lack of recognition of fear and anxiety of horses by their caregivers in the United Kingdom as well as tried and tested approaches to conversations to change this. Such synthesis of experience and techniques across the equine behaviour sector, together with the information gained regarding perception of equine caregivers, could be a valuable approach to improve the effectiveness of behaviour consultations and welfare initiatives.
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Domínguez-Oliva A, Mota-Rojas D, Hernández-Avalos I, Mora-Medina P, Olmos-Hernández A, Verduzco-Mendoza A, Casas-Alvarado A, Whittaker AL. The neurobiology of pain and facial movements in rodents: Clinical applications and current research. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1016720. [PMID: 36246319 PMCID: PMC9556725 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1016720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most controversial aspects of the use of animals in science is the production of pain. Pain is a central ethical concern. The activation of neural pathways involved in the pain response has physiological, endocrine, and behavioral consequences, that can affect both the health and welfare of the animals, as well as the validity of research. The strategy to prevent these consequences requires understanding of the nociception process, pain itself, and how assessment can be performed using validated, non-invasive methods. The study of facial expressions related to pain has undergone considerable study with the finding that certain movements of the facial muscles (called facial action units) are associated with the presence and intensity of pain. This review, focused on rodents, discusses the neurobiology of facial expressions, clinical applications, and current research designed to better understand pain and the nociceptive pathway as a strategy for implementing refinement in biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Domínguez-Oliva
- Master in Science Program “Maestría en Ciencias Agropecuarias”, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Daniel Mota-Rojas
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assesment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Daniel Mota-Rojas
| | - Ismael Hernández-Avalos
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuautitlán Izcalli, Mexico
| | - Patricia Mora-Medina
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuautitlán Izcalli, Mexico
| | - Adriana Olmos-Hernández
- Division of Biotechnology-Bioterio and Experimental Surgery, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Antonio Verduzco-Mendoza
- Division of Biotechnology-Bioterio and Experimental Surgery, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Casas-Alvarado
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assesment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alexandra L. Whittaker
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
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10
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Klintip W, Jarudecha T, Rattanatumhi K, Ritchoo S, Muikaew R, Wangsud S, Sussadee M. First study on stress evaluation and reduction in hospitalized cats after neutering surgery. Vet World 2022; 15:2111-2118. [PMID: 36341062 PMCID: PMC9631363 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.2111-2118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: In Thailand, domestic cats are the most common companion animal, and many are admitted to veterinary clinics for neutering surgery; however, such environment can induce stress. This is the first study to evaluate stress in hospitalized cats after neutering surgery using cat stress score (CSS) and salivary cortisol levels, including the impact of providing a hiding box (B) and/or administering a pheromone product to reduce stress. Materials and Methods: The study design was based on a randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 80 domestic cats undergoing routine neutering surgery were assessed for their behavioral demeanor scoring system (DSS) as friendly (DSS1) and aggressive (DSS2) based on a DSS. During admission, the cats were randomly allocated to single standard cages with one of the following treatments: (B), feline facial pheromone (P), a combination of hiding box and the pheromone (BP), or no additional enrichment (C). Cat stress score, food intake, and hide-seeking behavior were recorded. The cortisol enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit was used to assess the salivary cortisol level. Results: On the 1st day of admission, aggressive cats had a significantly higher CSS (4.16 ± 0.29) than friendly cats (3.27 ± 0.16). Both demeanor cat groups showed statistically significant reductions in stress levels earlier than the control group after providing the enrichments. Saliva cortisol measurements ranged from 0.24 to 0.66 ng/mL. No statistical differences in cortisol levels were observed between the 1st day and other days of admission. In contrast, no differences in food intake and hide-seeking behavior were seen within each group during the same period. Conclusion: Results suggested that stress and stress responses in cats depended on behavioral demeanor. The provision of enrichment, including hiding box and feline facial pheromone in singly housed caging reduced stress, especially in aggressive cats. However, salivary cortisol analysis, food intake, and hide-seeking behavior were ineffective for assessing stress in cats after neutering surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Worranan Klintip
- Department of Veterinary Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Technology, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thitichai Jarudecha
- Department of Veterinary Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Technology, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Khwankamon Rattanatumhi
- Department of Veterinary Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Technology, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sudpatchara Ritchoo
- Department of Veterinary Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Technology, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Rattana Muikaew
- Department of Veterinary Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Technology, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sakkapop Wangsud
- Department of Veterinary Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Technology, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Metita Sussadee
- Department of Veterinary Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Technology, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
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11
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Neary JM, Porter ND, Viscardi AV, Jacobs L. Recognizing Post-Castration Pain in Piglets: A Survey of Swine Industry Stakeholders and the General Public. FRONTIERS IN ANIMAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fanim.2022.937020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We need validated, practical methods for pain assessment in piglets. Pain assessment can help researchers, veterinarians and industry professionals identify the need for analgesia or other pain management approaches when applying painful procedures, such as surgical castration. A pain assessment tool, the Piglet Grimace Scale (PGS), was previously validated in this context, but it is not widely applied. It is important that the PGS can be applied by a range of people, not just pain assessment experts. Our objective was to study the validity and reliability of PGS ratings applied by swine industry professionals and the general public, to assess its potential utility in non-research applications. To do so, we conducted an online Qualtrics survey in which, after completing a brief online training module and a practice test, 119 respondents were asked to rate 9 piglet images showing facial expressions immediately after surgical castration or sham-handling. Respondents were provided information on the castration treatment for each image and had continuous access to the scale throughout the survey. The survey also contained demographic questions. Industry respondents were recruited through networking, and participants from the general public were recruited through Amazon Mechanical Turk. Four trained experts scored each image, and these scores were averaged to produce gold standard scores. Intraclass correlations indicated strong internal consistency among experts, industry and public. ANOVA demonstrated scoring to be moderately comparable between groups. Campbell and Fiske’s Multi-Trait Multi-Method framework provided qualified support for the internal validity and reliability of the PGS scale, even applied by non-experts (industry and public). Both response groups were able to recognize pain in castrated piglets. However, public respondents attributed higher levels of pain to sham-handled piglets than industry respondents (2.83 vs. 2.35; p=0.047), and both response groups systematically overestimated pain experience compared to the experts, suggesting more training may be necessary before using the scale in a diagnostic capacity. Nevertheless, overall findings support wide applicability of PGS, even with minimal training, to improve awareness, recognition and monitoring of swine pain among veterinarians, industry professionals and even members of the public.
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12
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Riva MG, Dai F, Huhtinen M, Minero M, Barbieri S, Dalla Costa E. The Impact of Noise Anxiety on Behavior and Welfare of Horses from UK and US Owner’s Perspective. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12101319. [PMID: 35625165 PMCID: PMC9138043 DOI: 10.3390/ani12101319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Noise anxiety is an over-reaction to loud noises commonly detected among pets and can greatly impact on their welfare and on their management. When exposed to noisy events, horses can show intense escape attempts, which may cause severe accidents for the horse and the rider/handler. The aim of the present study was to investigate, through a web survey, UK and US owners’ perception of noise anxiety severity in their horses, their management strategies and perceived efficacy. The questionnaire was shared via social networking and advertised as “What is your horse afraid of?”. Over a total of 1836 questionnaires filled out; 409 owners reported that their horse has shown unusual behavior during a noise event. A two-step cluster analysis identified two groups: very anxious (VA) and slightly anxious (SA). VA horses were reported to have higher frequency of anxiety behaviors; higher frequency of signs of noise reactivity; and their anxiety did not improve with time. The most used management strategies consisted in providing hay throughout the night, turning in/out their horse or moving it to a paddock. A binomial logistic regression identified that horses that have reported injuries during noise events were more likely to be clustered as VA (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.08–0.76); while providing hay throughout the night was more likely to be very effective management strategy in SA horses (OR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.16–1.01). Our results confirmed that noise anxiety is a growing behavioral problem that can lead to important welfare concerns for horses. New management strategies, including the use of medicinal products, should be considered to reduce behavioral and physiological signs and help horses to cope with noisy events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giorgia Riva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (M.G.R.); (M.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Francesca Dai
- Il Rifugio degli Asinelli ONLUS, 13884 Sala Biellese, Italy;
| | - Mirja Huhtinen
- Orion Corporation, Orion Pharma, R&D, 02200 Espoo, Finland;
| | - Michela Minero
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (M.G.R.); (M.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Sara Barbieri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (M.G.R.); (M.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Emanuela Dalla Costa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (M.G.R.); (M.M.); (S.B.)
- Correspondence:
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13
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Thermal and Circulatory Changes in Diverse Body Regions in Dogs and Cats Evaluated by Infrared Thermography. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12060789. [PMID: 35327185 PMCID: PMC8944468 DOI: 10.3390/ani12060789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Infrared thermography (IRT) has been proposed as a method for clinical research to detect local inflammatory processes, wounds, neoplasms, pain, and neuropathies. However, evidence of the effectiveness of the thermal windows used in dogs and cats is discrepant. This review aims to analyze and discuss the usefulness of IRT in diverse body regions in household animals (pets) related to recent scientific evidence on the use of the facial, body, and appendicular thermal windows. IRT is a diagnostic method that evaluates thermal and circulatory changes under different clinical conditions. For the face, structures such as the lacrimal caruncle, ocular area, and pinna are sensitive to assessments of stress degrees, but only the ocular window has been validated in felines. The usefulness of body and appendicular thermal windows has not been conclusively demonstrated because evidence indicates that biological and environmental factors may strongly influence thermal responses in those body regions. The above has led to proposals to evaluate specific muscles that receive high circulation, such as the bicepsfemoris and gracilis. The neck area, perivulvar, and perianal regions may also prove to be useful thermal windows, but their degree of statistical reliability must be established. In conclusion, IRT is a non-invasive technique that can be used to diagnose inflammatory and neoplastic conditions early. However, additional research is required to establish the sensitivity and specificity of these thermal windows and validate their clinical use in dogs and cats.
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