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Greppi M, Bordin C, Raspa F, Maccone E, Harris P, Ellis AD, Cavallini D, Bergero D, Valle E. Feeding behaviour related to different feeding devices. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2024. [PMID: 38704815 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Slow feeding devices (SFDs) are useful tools in order to improve the horse well-being and to reduce wastage, but their use may result in unnatural posture during feeding and frustration behaviours. Moreover, it may be important to evaluate the laterality during feeding. The aim of the study was to investigate ponies' feeding behaviour (i.e., lateralisation, frustration, postural eating style) with different hay feeding methods: on the ground (G), a fully filled hay net (HF), a partially filled hay net (HL), and a slow feeder hay box (HB). Nine ponies of two different breed types (Shetland and Welsh/Cob) were evaluated. Video recordings were obtained and then behavioural analysis was conducted. Data were analysed statistically using k-means cluster analysis, repeated measurement mixed model procedure, principal component analysis (PCA) and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Head tilting was more often performed during feeding from HF and HL compared to G and HB. Forelimb forward, referring to the position that ponies assumed during feeding, was performed less frequently with the hay nets. Ponies, in particular Welsh/Cobs, tended to be more left-lateralized and performed more backward ears when feeding from the hay nets. Blink rate was observed to be greater when ponies were fed from G. No head pushing, striking with forelimb and pawing while feeding was seen. Animals fed from HF tended to eat from the top of the hay net and consequently showed an arched neck; while HL and HB showed for elongated neck an intermediate pattern between G and HF. From our results, HB seemed to be a useful compromise between natural feeding on the ground and the use of hay nets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Greppi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Clara Bordin
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Federica Raspa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Erica Maccone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Patricia Harris
- Equine Studies Group, Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Waltham-on-the-Wolds, UK
| | | | - Damiano Cavallini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Domenico Bergero
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Emanuela Valle
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
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Torres Borda L, Roth P, Lumetzberger J, Auer U, Jenner F. Proximity tracking using ultra-wideband technology for equine social behaviour research. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9971. [PMID: 38693325 PMCID: PMC11063072 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60805-0] [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] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Sociopositive interactions with conspecifics are essential for equine welfare and quality of life. This study aimed to validate the use of wearable ultra-wideband (UWB) technology to quantify the spatial relationships and dynamics of social behaviour in horses by continuous (1/s) measurement of interindividual distances. After testing the UWB devices' spatiotemporal accuracy in a static environment, the UWB measurement validity, feasibility and utility under dynamic field conditions was assessed in a group of 8 horses. Comparison of the proximity measurements with video surveillance data established the measurement accuracy and validity (r = 0.83, p < 0.0001) of the UWB technology. The utility for social behaviour research was demonstrated by the excellent accordance of affiliative relationships (preferred partners) identified using UWB with video observations. The horses remained a median of 5.82 m (95% CI 5.13-6.41 m) apart from each other and spent 20% (median, 95% CI 14-26%) of their time in a distance ≤ 3 m to their preferred partner. The proximity measurements and corresponding speed calculation allowed the identification of affiliative versus agonistic approaches based on differences in the approach speed and the distance and duration of the resulting proximity. Affiliative approaches were statistically significantly slower (median: 1.57 km/h, 95% CI 1.26-1.92 km/h, p = 0.0394) and resulted in greater proximity (median: 36.75 cm, 95% CI 19.5-62 cm, p = 0.0003) to the approached horse than agonistic approaches (median: 3.04 km/h, 95% CI 2.16-3.74 km/h, median proximity: 243 cm, 95% CI 130-319 cm), which caused an immediate retreat of the approached horse at a significantly greater speed (median: 3.77 km/h, 95% CI 3.52-5.85 km/h, p < 0.0001) than the approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Torres Borda
- Equine Surgery Unit, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Roth
- Computational Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jennifer Lumetzberger
- Computational Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrike Auer
- Anaesthesiology and Perioperative Intensive Care Medicine Unit, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florien Jenner
- Equine Surgery Unit, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
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Bordin C, Raspa F, Greppi M, Harris P, Ellis AD, Roggero A, Palestrini C, Cavallini D, Bergero D, Valle E. Pony feeding management: the role of morphology and hay feeding methods on intake rate, ingestive behaviors and mouth shaping. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1332207. [PMID: 38681853 PMCID: PMC11046934 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1332207] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, haynets and slow feeders have been promoted as sustainable tools to improve the feeding management of horses and reduce forage waste, but little is known about their effects on ponies. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the effects of different hay feeding methods on the ingestive behaviors, intake rate and mouth shaping of ponies belonging to two breed types, which are characterized by different head morphologies. Shetland type (SH, n = 5) and Welsh/Cob type (WC, n = 4) ponies were fed hay using four feeding methods: on the ground (G), a fully filled haynet (HF), a partially filled haynet (HL), and a slow-feeder hay box (HB). Head morphology was measured for each pony. Video recordings were then made to apply geometric morphometrics and to perform behavioral analysis. The intake rate was measured for each pony and each feeding method. Data obtained with geometric morphometrics were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) and canonical variate analysis (CVA). Behavioral data and intake rate measurements were analyzed using a mixed model, a post-hoc Tukey's test, a Pearson's correlation test, and a stepwise regression model. The geometric morphometrics results demonstrated that feeding method influenced mouth shaping (36% for G, 78% for HB, 77% for HF, 83% for HL, considering the total variance of shape) and affected the intake rate. Differences in mouth shaping and ingestive behaviors in SH and WC ponies also confirmed the role of morphology in feeding management. The HL proved to be the most effective tool to increase feeding consumption time when needed (5 h/kg for SH ponies and 3 h/kg for WC ponies, considering the intake time), although the HB may be the optimal choice to reduce the intake rate while maintaining a more natural posture. Future studies are suggested to fully understand how body size and morphology influence feeding in equine species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Bordin
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Federica Raspa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Martina Greppi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Patricia Harris
- Equine Studies Group, Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Waltham-on-the-Wolds, Melton Mowbray, United Kingdom
- Mars Petcare UK, Slough, United Kingdom
| | | | - Angela Roggero
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Claudia Palestrini
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Damiano Cavallini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell’Emilia, Italy
| | - Domenico Bergero
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Emanuela Valle
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
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Muca E, Cavallini D, Raspa F, Bordin C, Bergero D, Valle E. Integrating New Learning Methods into Equine Nutrition Classrooms: The Importance of Students' Perceptions. J Equine Vet Sci 2023; 126:104537. [PMID: 37150232 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite greater efforts made over recent years to teach animal nutrition to veterinary students, more needs to be done to develop teaching methods and improve education on equine nutrition. The flipped classroom and peer-assisted learning (FC/PAL) approach is a teaching technique suggested to support learning; however, research into FC/PAL in veterinary education is scarce and little is known about students' views on this approach. This study examined the results of a questionnaire administered to assess veterinary students' perceptions of/views about the suitability of FC/PAL applied in an equine nutrition course. Correlation analysis of students' responses to questionnaire items and principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to analyze the variability in student perceptions. The results showed that although half the students reported to be uninterested in equine nutrition, most expressed positive attitudes towards FC/PAL. Comparing the perceptions/views towards FC/PAL among low and high achievers, a significant difference was found for the item considering the duration of FC/PAL (P = .002). Correlation analysis between questionnaire items showed a predominance of positive moderate correlations among high achievers and weak correlations among low achievers. PCA revealed three important findings. First, student interest towards equine nutrition explains the response variability among low achievers. Second, there was significant agreement among almost all high achievers regarding the duration of the FC/PAL. Third, in the item evaluating the usefulness of collaborating with peers, disagreement was only found among low achievers. In summary, a flipped classroom combined with the same level peer-assisted learning appears to encourage student interaction and collaboration in the classroom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edlira Muca
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy.
| | - Damiano Cavallini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | - Federica Raspa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Clara Bordin
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Domenico Bergero
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Emanuela Valle
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
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Cavallini D, Palmonari A, Mammi LME, Ghiaccio F, Canestrari G, Formigoni A. Evaluation of fecal sampling time points to estimate apparent nutrient digestibility in lactating Holstein dairy cows. Front Vet Sci 2023; 9:1065258. [PMID: 36686178 PMCID: PMC9849752 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1065258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The aim of this study was the evaluation of nutrient excretion patterns in samples of feces collected every 2 h to define the best sampling protocol for estimation of apparent digestibility. Methods Four multiparous mid-lactation Holstein cows, housed in a tie stall barn and milked twice a day (0800; 1900 h), were enrolled. Dry total mixed ration (TMR) without silages was fed once (0800 h) per day. Feces were sampled every 2 h for 72 h. Each sample was divided in 3 portions: hourly sample sample (8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 00, 2, 4, 6), 8-h composite sample (00-06, 08-14 and 16-22), and a 24-h composite sample. Complete chemical analyses were performed and total tract nutrient digestibility was calculated using undegraded neutral detergent fiber at 240 h of in vitro fermentation (uNDF240h) as a marker. Feeding and rumination patterns were also recorded during the trial. Results and discussion For some parameters, excretion was not constant throughout the day: neutral detergent fiber (aNDFom), undegraded neutral detergent fiber at 24 h of in vitro fermentation (uNDF24h), uDNF240h, total tract crude protein digestibility (TTCPD), total tract neutral detergent fiber digestibility (TTaNDFomD), total tract potentially degraded neutral detergent fiber at 240 h of in vitro fermentation digestibility (TTpdNDF240hD) with minimal values after new TMR delivery and maximal values 12 h after feed delivery. Feeding and ruminating behavior seemed to have an important role in the excretion pattern, due to the pushing and evacuating effect they have. Considering our results, two fecal samples at 12 and 24 h after the TMR delivery are suggested. For one daily sample, 12 h post time of most stable and constant rumination 0000-0600 h, which is also 8 h post feed delivery is suggested.
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Marliani G, Vannucchi I, Kiumurgis I, Accorsi PA. Limitations of Spatial Judgment Bias Test Application in Horses ( Equus ferus caballus). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:3014. [PMID: 36359138 PMCID: PMC9654000 DOI: 10.3390/ani12213014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Affective states are of increasing interest in the assessment of animal welfare. This research aimed to evaluate the possible limitations in the application of a spatial judgment bias test (JBT) in horses, considering the influence of stress level, personality traits, and the possible bias due to the test structure itself. The distinction between two positions, one rewarded (Positive) and the other not (Negative), was learned by 10 horses and 4 ponies,. Then, the latency to reach three unrewarded ambiguous positions (Near Positive, Middle, Near Negative) was measured. Furthermore, the validated Equine Behavior Assessment and Research Questionnaire (E-BARQ) was employed to assess personality traits. Fecal and hair cortisol levels were measured through radioimmunoassay (RIA), and the frequency of behavioral stress indicators was recorded. Results showed that horses that had the rewarded position (Positive) on the right approached Near Negative and Middle faster than those that had Positive on the left. Certain personality traits influenced the latency to reach Middle and Near Positive, but chronic stress did not seem to affect horses' judgment bias. This preliminary study highlighted several limitations in the employment of spatial JBT for the assessment of affective state in horses and that personality traits can partially influence the cognitive process. Further research is needed to refine the use of this test in horses, considering the peculiarities both of species and of individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Marliani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 50, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Italy
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7
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Colombino E, Raspa F, Perotti M, Bergero D, Vervuert I, Valle E, Capucchio MT. Gut health of horses: effects of high fibre vs high starch diet on histological and morphometrical parameters. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:338. [PMID: 36076239 PMCID: PMC9454146 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03433-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The conventional feeding management of horses is still characterized by high starch and low fibre diets, which can negatively affect horse’s gastrointestinal health. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the effects of a high-starch (HS) vs. a high-fibre (HF) diet on gut health in horses. A total of 19 Bardigiano horses destined for slaughter and aged 14.3 ± 0.7 months were randomly allotted to two dietary groups: HS (5 fillies and 4 colts,) and HF group (7 fillies and 3 colts). They received the same first-cut meadow hay but different complementary feeds for 72 days: HS group was fed 8 kg/animal/day of a starch-rich complementary feed while HF group was fed 3.5 kg/animal/day of a fibre‐rich complementary feed. At slaughter, stomachs were separated and washed for the evaluation of the glandular and squamous regions. Also, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, apex of the caecum, sternal flexure, pelvic flexure, right dorsal colon, rectum and liver were excised and submitted to histomorphometrical evaluation. Results The glandular region of HS group presented more severe gastric mucosa lesions compared to the HF group (P = 0.006). Moreover, a statistical tendency (P = 0.060) was found for the squamous region, presenting a higher score in HS than HF diet. Regarding morphometry, in jejunum villus height to crypt depth (Cd) ratio was influenced by sex, being greater in males than in females (P = 0.037) while in ileum Cd depended on interaction between sex and diet, being greater in males of HS group (P = 0.029). Moreover, in the duodenum and right dorsal colon the severity of the inflammation depended on sex (P = 0.024 and 0.050), being greater in females than in males. On the contrary, in the jejunum and in the pelvic flexure, inflammation was influenced by diet, being more severe in HS than in HF group (P = 0.024 and 0.052). Conclusions These results suggested that HS diet provoked more severe mucosa lesions in the glandular region of the stomach and a higher inflammation both in the jejunum and pelvic flexure. The present study can represent a starting point for further investigations on gut health in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Colombino
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, 10095, Turin, Italy.
| | - Federica Raspa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, 10095, Turin, Italy
| | - Maria Perotti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, 10095, Turin, Italy
| | - Domenico Bergero
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, 10095, Turin, Italy
| | - Ingrid Vervuert
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Nutrition Diseases and Dietetics, Faculty of Leipzig, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, 04103, Germany
| | - Emanuela Valle
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, 10095, Turin, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Capucchio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, 10095, Turin, Italy
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Fletcher K, Limon G, Whatford L, Grist A, Knowles T, Gibson T. A systematic review of equid welfare at slaughter. Livest Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2022.104988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Raspa F, Tarantola M, Muca E, Bergero D, Soglia D, Cavallini D, Vervuert I, Bordin C, De Palo P, Valle E. Does Feeding Management Make a Difference to Behavioural Activities and Welfare of Horses Reared for Meat Production? Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141740. [PMID: 35883287 PMCID: PMC9311627 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Horses reared for meat production are generally fed a diet rich in starch with the aim of maximizing production performances. This study evaluated the effects of two feeding management systems on horse welfare by analysing the relative time spent engaged in different behavioural activities. Nineteen Bardigiano horses aged 14.3 ± 0.7 months were randomly assigned to one of two group pens: one group was fed high amounts of starch-rich concentrates (HCG; n = 10), the other was fed a fibre-based diet (HFG; n = 9). Behavioural activities performed by each horse were video-recorded over a 96-h period. A scan sampling process (n = 144 scans/horse/day; total n of scans sampled = 10,368) was used, and the scans were analysed according to a specific ethogram. The mean frequency (%/24 h) spent exhibiting each behavioural activity was calculated to obtain the time budget. After checking for normality (Shapiro–Wilk test), Student’s t tests (normally distributed data) and Mann–Whitney tests (not normally distributed data) were used to compare the time budgets of the two groups of horses (HCG vs. HFG). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to identify the components explaining the variability in behavioural activities between the two groups. K-means cluster analysis subsequently confirmed the PCA results. The behavioural activities associated with feeding horses a fibre-based diet correlated with better horse welfare compared with feeding horses a starch-based diet. Feeding horses a fibre-based diet resulted advantageous from both the welfare and economic perspective; it allowed horses to spend more time expressing feeding behaviours and reduced energy expenditure in the form of excitable, or “fizzy”, behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Raspa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (M.T.); (E.M.); (D.B.); (D.S.); (C.B.); (E.V.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Martina Tarantola
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (M.T.); (E.M.); (D.B.); (D.S.); (C.B.); (E.V.)
| | - Edlira Muca
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (M.T.); (E.M.); (D.B.); (D.S.); (C.B.); (E.V.)
| | - Domenico Bergero
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (M.T.); (E.M.); (D.B.); (D.S.); (C.B.); (E.V.)
| | - Dominga Soglia
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (M.T.); (E.M.); (D.B.); (D.S.); (C.B.); (E.V.)
| | - Damiano Cavallini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Italy;
| | - Ingrid Vervuert
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany;
| | - Clara Bordin
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (M.T.); (E.M.); (D.B.); (D.S.); (C.B.); (E.V.)
| | - Pasquale De Palo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Italy;
| | - Emanuela Valle
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (M.T.); (E.M.); (D.B.); (D.S.); (C.B.); (E.V.)
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Raspa F, Vervuert I, Capucchio MT, Colombino E, Bergero D, Forte C, Greppi M, Cavallarin L, Giribaldi M, Antoniazzi S, Cavallini D, Valvassori E, Valle E. A high-starch vs. high-fibre diet: effects on the gut environment of the different intestinal compartments of the horse digestive tract. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:187. [PMID: 35590319 PMCID: PMC9118577 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03289-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Horses are often fed high amounts of starch in their diets despite the well-established benefits of a fibre-based diet to promote gut health and animal welfare. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of two different diets – one based on high amounts of starch (HS) vs. one base on high amounts of fibre (HF) – on specific parameters of the gut environment across different intestinal compartments of the horse digestive tract. To this end differences in the gastrointestinal environment between HS vs. HF fed horses were assessed in terms of dry matter, organic matter and ash content; the particle size distribution and volatile fatty acid composition were also investigated. Results Nineteen Bardigiano horses of 14.3 ± 0.7 months of age and destined to slaughter were divided into two group pens – one fed with high amounts of starch (HS; n = 9; 43% hay plus 57% starch-rich pelleted feed); vs. fed with high amounts of fibre (HF; n = 10; 70% hay plus 30% fibre-rich pelleted feed). Horses fed HS diet presented a higher dry matter content in the right dorsal colon. Moreover, they showed a higher organic matter and ash content in the sternal flexure, pelvic flexure, right dorsal colon and rectum. In these latter intestinal compartments, horses fed a HS diet also showed a higher proportion of particles retained on an 8 mm sieve and a higher proportion of particles that washed through the finest sieve (< 1 mm). Moreover, the total amounts of volatile fatty acids as well as valeric acid were found to be significantly higher in horses fed the HS vs. HF diet. Conclusions A high-starch diet causes significant changes in the horse gut environment. We observed an increase in the dry matter content in the right dorsal colon, as well as reduced particle sizes and an increase in the production of valeric acid in all the gut compartments studied. High-starch diets should be avoided in favour of fibre-based diets with the goal of safeguarding gut health in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Raspa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Ingrid Vervuert
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Elena Colombino
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Domenico Bergero
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Claudio Forte
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Martina Greppi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Laura Cavallarin
- ISPA-CNR, Institute of Sciences of Food Production, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Marzia Giribaldi
- ISPA-CNR, Institute of Sciences of Food Production, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Sara Antoniazzi
- ISPA-CNR, Institute of Sciences of Food Production, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Damiano Cavallini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | | | - Emanuela Valle
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095, Grugliasco, Italy.
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Wang X, Qin T, Xu H, Liu P, Wu Y, Zhang D, Qi Z. Effects of stocking density on growth performance, digestive function and immune performance of Matou goats. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2021.1968772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xinhui Wang
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Tingyang Qin
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongyang Xu
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Peiyao Liu
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dingran Zhang
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhili Qi
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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12
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Cavallini D, Penazzi L, Valle E, Raspa F, Bergero D, Formigoni A, Fusaro I. When changing the hay makes a difference: A series of case reports. J Equine Vet Sci 2022; 113:103940. [PMID: 35341909 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2022.103940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Dry hay (composed of grass, legumes, or a mixture of the two) provides the primary source of alimentary fiber in stabled horses with limited access to fresh pasture. However, hay can also give rise to health problems in the horse, depending on the quality and quantity of its components. Pathologies may be rooted in biological problems, such as inadequate digestion disturbances, or reflect mechanical difficulties - for example, due to the presence of sharp plant parts that irritate the oral mucosa, or due to physical intake problems that inhibit consumption. Unwanted plants in the hay may cause stomatitis and affect the oral mucosa, resulting in inappetence, hemorrhagic drooling, gingival hyperemia, edema, and ulcerative lesions, as reported in case 1 of the present study. Horse dysphagia, defined as a difficult in ingesting feed through the mouth and esophagus, is another important cause of malnutrition in the horse, and identifying the site of its origin is important in order to provide practical advice for nutritional management, as reported in case 2. Free fecal water syndrome (FFWS) is a condition where the horse exhibits two-phase feces expulsion, with an initial solid phase followed by a liquid phase. Although the etiology of FFWS is still unknown, hay quality seems to play a key role, as the outcome of case 3 suggests. This case series highlights the importance of hay quality and of providing an appropriate and adequate fiber intake. Moreover, good hay management becomes crucial when horses are affected by contextual pathologies, such as stomatitis, dysphagia, or FFWS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiano Cavallini
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Livio Penazzi
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2-5, 10095 Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Emanuela Valle
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2-5, 10095 Grugliasco (TO), Italy.
| | - Federica Raspa
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2-5, 10095 Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Domenico Bergero
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2-5, 10095 Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Andrea Formigoni
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Isa Fusaro
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Teramo, SP18 8, 64100 Piano d'Accio (TE), Italy
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13
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Mikuła R, Pruszyńska-Oszmałek E, Pszczola M, Rząsińska J, Sassek M, Nowak KW, Nogowski L, Kołodziejski PA. Changes in metabolic and hormonal profiles during transition period in dairy cattle - the role of spexin. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:359. [PMID: 34798894 PMCID: PMC8605515 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-03069-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to evaluate spexin as a novel blood marker and to describe the relationship of this peptide with selected biochemical metabolites measured during the transition period in dairy cows. Additionally, mRNA expression of the spexin gene as well as spexin receptors - galanin receptor type 2 and galanin receptor type 3, was investigated in several bovine tissues. Blood samples were collected at weekly intervals starting at 21 days before the estimated parturition day until 21 days in milk to determine concentrations of spexin, nonesterified fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyrate acid, total and active ghrelin, progesterone, glucose, insulin, IGF-I, triglycerides, cholesterol, leptin, corticosterone and 17-β-estradiol as well as the activity of aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transferase. RESULTS Spexin concentration decreased from 21 d before parturition to calving day and next it rose during the first 14 d of lactation. The lowest concentration of spexin was recorded on the calving day and it differed from the mean level of this peptide before parturition as well as postpartum. Moreover, differences were observed between mean spexin concentrations before and after calving. Spexin levels were moderately negatively correlated with NEFA (r = - 0.39) and total ghrelin contents (r = - 0.41), weakly correlated with BHBA (r = - 0.35) while they showed a moderate positive relationship with progesterone concentrations (r = 0.42). Moreover, we detected that mRNA expression of GALR2, GALR3 and SPX is present in various bovine tissues (kidney, bowel, rumen, spinal cord, lung, skeletal muscle, liver, heart, fat and spleen). CONCLUSION A negative correlation between spexin concentration and NEFA, BHBA and total ghrelin contents as well as a positive relationship with levels of progesterone, metabolites and hormones, which are key players in the dairy cow transition period, may confirm an important function of this peptide in metabolism regulation. Thus measurement of spexin concentration could provide useful supplementary information for dairy cow herd health monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Mikuła
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 33, 60-637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Ewa Pruszyńska-Oszmałek
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 35, 60 –, 637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Marcin Pszczola
- Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 33, 60-637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Justyna Rząsińska
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 33, 60-637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Maciej Sassek
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 35, 60 –, 637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Krzysztof W. Nowak
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 35, 60 –, 637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Leszek Nogowski
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 35, 60 –, 637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Paweł A. Kołodziejski
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 35, 60 –, 637 Poznań, Poland
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14
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Horses' Use of Lying Halls and Time Budget in Relation to Available Lying Area. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113214. [PMID: 34827946 PMCID: PMC8614411 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Sleep is crucial to horses' wellbeing, and their lying time can vary according to such factors as climate, exercise, bedding, and housing. This study aimed to analyze behavior and time spent in lying halls of various sizes. We examined the influence of housing systems on total lying time and behavior, and how changes to available lying area can affect lying time. Two open barns were used in this study, with lying areas of 8, 15, and 18 m2/horse available in the lying halls. The horses' behavior was video recorded and logged using scan sampling and interval observations. Individual boxes were used as a control. The horses were found to spend longer time in sternal and lateral recumbency in the hall with a lying area of 18 m2/horse than the hall with a lying area of 8 m2/horse. Increasing the area of the lying hall also increased overall time spent there. Consequently, the hypothesis that increasing lying area will increase the horses' use of the lying hall, as well as their total lying time, was accepted.
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15
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Recumbency as an Equine Welfare Indicator in Geriatric Horses and Horses with Chronic Orthopaedic Disease. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113189. [PMID: 34827921 PMCID: PMC8614510 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Recumbency is a prerequisite for horses achieving rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and completing a full sleep cycle. An inability to lie down due to environmental insecurities or pain results in REM sleep deficiency, which can cause substantial impairment of welfare and health. Therefore, the present study used wearable automated sensor technology on 83 horses housed in an animal sanctuary to measure and compare the recumbency, locomotion, and standing time budgets of geriatric horses with and without chronic lameness to younger adult sound and lame horses. Recumbency times ranged from 0 to 319 min per day with an overall mean of 67.4 (±61.9) minutes; the time budget for locomotion was 19.1% (±11.2% s.d.) and for standing 75.6% (±13.1 s.d.). Interestingly, neither age nor lameness due to chronic orthopedic disease had a significant influence on recumbency times in this study. Eight horses showed symptoms of REM deficit. These horses had significantly shorter lying times (7.99 ± 11.4 min) and smaller locomotion time budgets than the other horses enrolled in this study (73.8 ± 61.8 min), indicating a general compromise of well-being. Thus, wearable sensor technology can be used to identify horses with low recumbency times at risk for REM sleep deficiency and to assess and monitor equine welfare objectively.
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16
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Raspa F, Dinardo FR, Vervuert I, Bergero D, Bottero MT, Pattono D, Dalmasso A, Vinassa M, Valvassori E, Bruno E, De Palo P, Valle E. A Fibre- vs. cereal grain-based diet: Which is better for horse welfare? Effects on intestinal permeability, muscle characteristics and oxidative status in horses reared for meat production. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2021; 106:313-326. [PMID: 34553422 PMCID: PMC9292821 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Horses reared for meat production are fed high amounts of cereal grains in comparison with horses raised for other purposes. Such feeding practice may lead to risk of poor welfare consequences. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of two feeding practices on selected metabolic parameters and production aspects. Nineteen Bardigiano horses, 14.3 ± 0.7 months of age, were randomly assigned to two groups-one fed with high amounts of cereal grains (HCG; n = 9; 43% hay plus 57% cereal grain-based pelleted feed) vs. one fed with high amounts of fibre (HFG; n = 10; 70% hay plus 30% pelleted fibrous feed)-for 129 days. At slaught on abattoir, biological and tissue samples were collected to evaluate the microbiological contamination of mesenteric lymph nodes and liver; selected meat quality traits (chemical composition and fatty acid profile of the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle); and the oxidative status of the horse. A linear mixed model was used: dietary treatment and sex were fixed effects and their interaction analysed on production and metabolic parameters as dependent variables. Results showed an increased intestinal permeability in the horses fed HCG compared to HFG, according to the significant increased total mesophilic aerobic bacteria counts in mesenteric lymph nodes (p = 0.04) and liver samples (p = 0.05). Horses in HCG showed increased muscle pH (p = 0.02), lighter muscle colour (L) (p = 0.01), increased intramuscular fat concentrations (p = 0.03), increased muscle glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities (p = 0.01 and p = 0.03, respectively). Moreover, horses in HCG had lower muscle water holding capacity at interaction with sex (p = 0.03, lower in female), lower muscle protein content (p = 0.01), lower concentration of muscle PUFAs (p = 0.05) and lower plasma catalase activities (p = 0.05). Our results showed that feeding a high cereal grains diet can have global effects on horse physiology, and thus represents a threat for their welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Raspa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | | | - Ingrid Vervuert
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Nutrition Diseases and Dietetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Domenico Bergero
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Pattono
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | | | - Marica Vinassa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | | | - Elena Bruno
- Public Veterinary Service, ASL CN2, Alba, Italy
| | - Pasquale De Palo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Emanuela Valle
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
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Kelemen Z, Grimm H, Vogl C, Long M, Cavalleri JMV, Auer U, Jenner F. Equine Activity Time Budgets: The Effect of Housing and Management Conditions on Geriatric Horses and Horses with Chronic Orthopaedic Disease. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11071867. [PMID: 34201584 PMCID: PMC8300227 DOI: 10.3390/ani11071867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Housing and management conditions strongly influence the health, welfare and behaviour of horses. Consequently, objective and quantifiable comparisons between domestic environments and their influence on different equine demographics are needed to establish evidence-based criteria to assess and optimize horse welfare. Therefore, the present study aimed to measure and compare the time budgets (=percentage of time spent on specific activities) of horses with chronic orthopaedic disease and geriatric (≥20 years) horses living in different husbandry systems using an automated tracking device. Horses spent 42% (range 38.3-44.8%) of their day eating, 39% (range 36.87-44.9%) resting, and 19% (range 17-20.4%) in movement, demonstrating that geriatric horses and horses suffering from chronic orthopaedic disease can exhibit behaviour time budgets equivalent to healthy controls. Time budget analysis revealed significant differences between farms, turn-out conditions and time of day, and could identify potential areas for improvement. Horses living in open-air group housing on a paddock had a more uniform temporal distribution of feeding and movement activities with less pronounced peaks compared to horses living in more restricted husbandry systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsofia Kelemen
- Equine Surgery Unit, University Equine Hospital, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Herwig Grimm
- Unit of Ethics and Human-Animal-Studies, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (H.G.); (M.L.)
| | - Claus Vogl
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Mariessa Long
- Unit of Ethics and Human-Animal-Studies, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (H.G.); (M.L.)
| | - Jessika M. V. Cavalleri
- Equine Internal Medicine Unit, University Equine Hospital, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Ulrike Auer
- Anaesthesiology and Perioperative Intensive Care Medicine Unit, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
- Correspondence: (U.A.); (F.J.)
| | - Florien Jenner
- Equine Surgery Unit, University Equine Hospital, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
- Correspondence: (U.A.); (F.J.)
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18
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Auer U, Kelemen Z, Engl V, Jenner F. Activity Time Budgets-A Potential Tool to Monitor Equine Welfare? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030850. [PMID: 33802908 PMCID: PMC8002676 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Horses’ behavior is a good indicator of their welfare status. However, its complexity requires objective, quantifiable, and unambiguous evidence-based assessment criteria. As healthy, stress-free horses exhibit a highly repetitive daily routine, horses’ time budget (amount of time in a 24 h period spent on specific activities) can assist in equine welfare assessment. A systematic review of the literature yielded 12 papers that assessed equine time budgets for eating, resting and movement for a minimum of 24 continuous hours. A total of 144 horses (1–27 years old), 59 semi-feral and 85 domesticated horses, are included in this review. The reported 24 h time budgets for eating ranged from 10% to 66.6%, for resting from 8.1% to 66%, for lying from 2.7% to 27.3%, and for movement from 0.015% to 19.1%. The large variance in time budgets between studies can largely be attributed to differences in age and environmental conditions. Management interventions (free access to food, increased space, decreased population density) in domesticated horses yielded time budgets similar to semi-feral horses. The data support the importance of environmental conditions for horses’ well-being and the ability of time budgets to assist in monitoring horses’ welfare. Abstract Horses’ behavior can provide valuable insight into their subjective state and is thus a good indicator of welfare. However, its complexity requires objective, quantifiable, and unambiguous evidence-based assessment criteria. As healthy, stress-free horses exhibit a highly repetitive daily routine, temporal quantification of their behavioral activities (time budget analysis) can assist in equine welfare assessment. Therefore, the present systematic review aimed to provide an up-to-date analysis of equine time budget studies. A review of the literature yielded 12 papers that fulfilled the inclusion criteria: assessment of equine time budgets for eating, resting and movement for a minimum of 24 continuous hours. A total of 144 horses (1–27 years old), 59 semi-feral and 85 domesticated horses, are included in this review. The 24 h time budgets for foraging or eating (10–6.6%), resting (8.1–66%), lying (2.7–27.3%), and locomotion (0.015–19.1%) showed large variance between studies, which can largely be attributed to differences in age and environmental conditions. Management interventions in domesticated horses (ad libitum access to food, increased space, decreased population density) resulted in time budgets similar to their (semi-)feral conspecifics, emphasizing the importance of environmental conditions and the ability of time budgets to assist in monitoring horses’ welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Auer
- Anaesthesiology and Perioperative Intensive Care Medicine Unit, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
- Correspondence: (U.A.); (F.J.)
| | - Zsofia Kelemen
- Equine Surgery Unit, University Equine Hospital, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Veronika Engl
- Anaesthesiology and Perioperative Intensive Care Medicine Unit, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Florien Jenner
- Equine Surgery Unit, University Equine Hospital, Department of Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
- Correspondence: (U.A.); (F.J.)
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Studying the Shape Variations of the Back, the Neck, and the Mandibular Angle of Horses Depending on Specific Feeding Postures Using Geometric Morphometrics. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030763. [PMID: 33801885 PMCID: PMC7998216 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of specific feeding positions upon the horse's shape variations of the back and neck postures as well as the variations of the mandibular angle have never been objectively studied. For this reason, geometric morphometrics was applied. Six horses, aged 14 ± 8 years (mean ± standard deviation, SD), were video-recorded while using three different feeding positions: on the ground-control position (CP); neck held 15 ± 3° below withers height with low hay net position (LP); neck held 15 ± 3° above withers height with high hay net position (HP). Data were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA), multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), and partial least squares (PLS). A mixed model procedure was applied to evaluate differences in the magnitude of the mandibular angle. Whilst differences between individual horses were confirmed by canonical variate analysis (CVA), PCA analysis showed that a characteristic feeding position could also be identified on a group level. During the HP hay net position, the back and neck postures as well the mandibular angle were different compared to those exhibited by horses feeding from CP. In LP hay net position, the back posture more closely resembled those exhibited while feeding from CP; however, no similarity between LP and CP was found for neck posture and mandibular angle. Since only a few degrees of variation of the feeding position can influence back and neck postures, this aspect should be further investigated. The right compromise between horse welfare, horse safety, and management practices need to be further explored and long-term effects should be investigated.
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