Average Body Condition Score Research Articles

Investigating the impact of biochar on methane gas emissions and its effect on enteric fermentation

This study aims to evaluate the impact of biochar on methane gas emissions and to investigate its effect on enteric fermentation. Methane gas emissions from Naeemi ewes' ruminants were measured, with animals divided into two groups, each containing 14 ewes. The treatment group was fed a combination of biochar and a basal ration, while the control group received the basal ration alone. The results demonstrate that the initial gas emission for both animal groups at day 0 was 1082 ppm, and the inclusion of biochar in the diet significantly (P < 0.05) reduced CH4 gas emissions by 65.58 %–78.39%. Furthermore, feeding Naeemi sheep with biochar and the basal ration led to a significant (P < 0.05) increase in body weight (63.66 kg) and growth rate (length: 79.3 cm, waist: 81.75 cm, and height: 99.76 cm) compared to the control group. Additionally, it raised the average body condition score (BCS) to 3.56, in contrast to the control group's score of 2.83, primarily due to the positive impact of biochar on fat gain. The study revealed that biochar enhances nutrient utilization, improves feed efficiency, and significantly reduces methane gas emissions in livestock. When incorporated into the sheep's diet, biochar can modify digestive processes and promote better nutrient absorption.

55 Establishing grain-based modified protocols for re-feeding malnourished horses

Abstract Increased feed costs, forage availability, and the increasing number of malnourished horses present major challenges to the equine industry. The goal of this project was to test an adapted refeeding protocol using Bermuda hay and two commercial grain products in severely malnourished horses. So, an 8-wk study from January to March 2023 was conducted to evaluate the effects of Total Equine in the refeeding of 10 emaciated horses. Horses were previously destined for slaughter and purchased from an auction with an average body condition score (BCS) of 2.01 (S.D. ± 0.69), then quarantined for 30 d before starting the study following recommended biosecurity protocols. During quarantine, horses were evaluated by a veterinarian and received treatment as needed, vaccinations, deworming, and mares were pregnancy checked. All horses were provided with ad libitum Bermuda hay and water. Upon completion of the quarantine period, horses were blocked into two groups based on age, BCS, pregnancy status, and gender and randomly assigned to a diet. The Control (Ctrl) diet consisted of a commercial grain diet recommended and used by five local West Texas horse rescue groups and the Treatment (Trt) diet consisted of Total Equine. Both diets included ad libitum access to water and Bermuda hay (TDN 56.5) offered twice daily in port-a-grazer tubs to control waste and the amount was adjusted daily to maintain a 3% refusal rate. Grain was offered at a rate of 0.005% BW + 227 kg per the manufacturer’s suggestion, divided into 2 equal feedings with amounts adjusted weekly. Individual horses were weighed weekly using an electronic scale and BCS was evaluated at wk 0, 4, and 8. All horses were allowed a 1-h turnout in a dry-pen per day for 6 d each week. Blood samples were collected at wk 0, 4, and 8 for analysis. Health parameters were measured weekly throughout the study. Samples (grain, hay, hay orts) were collected twice weekly for DM, NDF, ADF, EE, CP, and Ash analysis. Data was analyzed using Proc Mixed in SAS. Overall, there was no significant difference between DMI by diet (Ctrl 8.74 kg/d and Trt 9.44 kg/d). However, a tendency for increased ADG (P = 0.06) for the Trt diet (Ctrl 0.20 kg/d &amp; Trt 1.34 kg/d) was noted. Efficiency calculated as (ADG/DMI) was significantly improved (P = 0.04) indicating an improvement in the efficiency of BW gain for the Trt diet compared with the Ctrl. Improved BW gain and efficiency of gain are of interest when rehabilitating malnourished horses. The establishment of accessible modified feeding protocols may improve efficiency and reduce the cost involved in the rehabilitation of malnourished horses and would be a step forward for the equine industry.

Can 60 days of feeding lead to increased fitness for transport in cull dairy cows?

The welfare of cull cows during transport to slaughter is a current concern in the Canadian dairy industry. Cull cows sold through auction often have a high prevalence of lameness, low BCS, hock lesions, and udder engorgement. To evaluate whether drying off and feeding cull dairy cows before transport can mitigate these challenges, 45 cows designated for culling were randomly assigned to either be fed for 60 d after being dried off (fed group; n = 24) or to serve as controls by being sent directly to slaughter (direct group; n = 21). Two fed group cows were removed for health reasons before completing the feeding period. Both fed group and direct group cows were assessed for locomotion (5-point scale), BCS (5-point scale), hock lesions (3-point scale), udder engorgement (3-point scale), and BW at the time of enrollment. Fed group cows, locomotion, BCS, hock, and udder engorgement scores were assessed weekly until slaughter. Weights of the fed group cows were measured again the day before slaughter. Mixed linear regression models were used to assess continuous outcomes BCS and weight. Mixed logistic regression models were used to assess dichotomous outcomes presence of hock lesions and lameness. Fed group cows gained an average of 116.9 kg over the feeding period (SE ± 8.20). Fed group cows had an average weight at slaughter of 834.2 kg, whereas direct group cows' average weight was 767.3 kg (SE ± 26.8). The fed group cows' average BCS at the start of the trial was 2.4, and at slaughter was 3.6, with an average gain of 1.2 BCS points. At slaughter, the proportion of udders involuted in the fed group was 45.1% (10/22) and in the direct group cows, was 0% (0/21). No differences were found in locomotion or hock lesions between the fed group and direct groups. It is important to weigh potential benefits for the fed group cows with the fact that direct group cows did not endure a drying off procedure, nor were they placed at risk of potential adverse health events. However, despite these potential limitations, due to the improved BCS and udder engorgement scores, cows fed for 60 d may be better prepared for the transportation to slaughter, as well as sell for a higher price due to increased BW and body condition.

133 Effects of supplementing corn silage to fall-calving heifers and cows grazing bermudagrass on cow and calf performance and physiology

Abstract The objective was to test the effect of supplemental feeding of corn silage to cows grazing bermudagrass pastures on cow and calf performance and physiology. In a completely randomized design, multiparous and primiparous Angus-crossbred cows (n = 24) grazed bermudagrass pastures assigned to one of two levels of supplemental feeding (non-supplemented or supplemented at 1% of BW on a DM basis of corn silage) during the growing season. Each replicate (pasture, n = 4 per treatment) was stocked with 3 cows. Cows averaged 155 ± 14 d of gestation at trial initiation. Cows were fed corn silage (38% DM, 7.83% CP DM basis) daily in fenceline bunks, and supplementation rate was adjusted throughout the trial to maintain 1% of BW. Cows were weighed on two consecutive days at both initiation and conclusion of the trial and cows were maintained on similar diets for 4 d prior to collecting weights to minimize variation in ruminal fill. Body weight (BW), body condition score (BCS), hair score (HS), hair length (HL), and rump fat (RF) measurements were collected at initiation (the middle of the second trimester), trial mid-point (beginning of third trimester), and approximately 2 wk before estimated parturition. Cows were removed from experimental pastures upon trial conclusion and relocated to calving pastures consisting of tame grasses (&amp;gt;65% bermudagrass). Data were analyzed as a mixed model with pasture as experimental unit and cows within pasture as subsamples. Cows began the trial at an average BW of 549 ± 22 kg (SEM) and an average BCS of 5.2 ± 0.17 (SEM). Supplementation of second and third trimester pregnant cows on bermudagrass did not influence BW gain, BCS, HS, or HL (P &amp;gt; 0.27). Rump fat tended (P = 0.15) to be increased with supplemental feeding. Supplemental feeding of corn silage on warm season perennial grass during the growing season did not appear to impact late gestation cow performance at the level fed in this study.

Growth and Body Conditions Score of Thin-Tailed Sheep Supplemented with Citrus Peel Powder

The research aims to examine the effect of citrus peel powder supplementation in feed on dry matter intake (DMI) and organic matter intake (OMI), dry matter (DMD) and organic matter digestibility (OMD), average daily gain (ADG) and body condition score (BCS) in sheep. The material used was 21 male thin-tailed sheep. The feed was 4% dry matter (DM) of body weight. The treatment consisted of 70% dried kale (Ipomoea spp), 30% concentrate, citrus peel powder 2.25% DM of basal feed, and citrus peel powder 4.5% of basal feed. The research design used was CRD with 3 treatments; each treatment was repeated 7 times. The treatment composition consisted of R0: dry kale 70% + 30% concentrate, R1: R0 Feed + citrus peel powder 2.25% basal feed, R2: R0 Feed + citrus peel powder 4.5% DM of basal feed. The results of this study showed a significant effect on DMI and OMI. The average DMI was R0 = 0.96 ± 0.07 kg/head/day, R1 = 1.05±0.08 kg/head/day, and R2 = 1.07±0.06 kg/head/ day. The average OMI obtained was R0 = 0.82 ± 0.06 kg/head/day, R1 = 1.90 ± 0.07 kg/head/day, R2 = 0.92±0.05 kg/head/ day. The average DMD obtained in treatments was R0 = 47.36±6%, R1 = 50.91±3%, and R2 = 62.32±6%. The results showed that supplementation with citrus peel powder had a very significant effect (P &lt; 0.01) on ADG, namely R0 (89.65 ± 7.67 g), R1 (117.37 ± 10.25 g), and R2 (95.59 ± 8.05 g ), and had no significant effect P &gt; 0.01 on BCS, namely the final BCS value at R0 (2.93 ± 0.19), R1 (2.93 ± 0.40) and R2 (2.82 ± 0.45). This research concludes that supplementing citrus peel powder at a 2.25% DM of basal feed significantly increases ADG, although it has not impacted the increasing BCS.

Mathematical models to predict the lamb weight at birth and at weaning reared in the tropical warm-climate pasture.

Our objective was to evaluate the productive parameters of ewes and their lambs in relation to ewe age and to develop models for predicting lamb weight at birth and weaning in a tropical warm-climate pasture. Individual data were collected from 273 ewes and 273 lambs, between 2013 and 2021. During this period all animals were kept on pastures of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu All lambs in the experiments were supplemented in creep-feeding. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the PROC SUMMARY procedure in SAS (SAS University Edition, SAS Institute Inc. Cary, CA, USA). Pearson correlation coefficients between variables were estimated using the PROC CORR procedure in SAS (SAS University Edition, SAS Institute Inc. Cary, CA, USA). Model adjustments and variable selection were performed using PROC REG in SAS (SAS University Edition, SAS Institute Inc. Cary, CA, USA). The STEPWISE option and Mallow's C(p) were used to select the variables included in the equations. Outliers were identified by evaluating the studentized residuals based on the predicted values from the equations. Residual analysis was predicted by regression minus observed values and those that fell outside the range of -2.5 to 2.5 were removed. Several statistics were used to assess the predictability of the equations, including the coefficients of determination (r2) and mean standard error (RMSE). The average ewe age at lambing was 3.4 ± 1.7years, with an average weight of 56.9 ± 8,9kg and average body condition score (BCS) of 2,4 ± 0.8 points. The average ewe age at weaning was 51.1 ± 7.9, with average BCS of 1.8 ± 0.8 points. The average lamb at birthing was 3.9 ± 0.9kg. The average lamb at weaning was 21.0 ± 4.9, with daily gain of 0.2 ± 0.1kg/day and total gain of 17.1 ± 4.7kg birth to weaning. The lamb produced by ewe at lambing was 5.3 ± 1.7kg/ewe. The lamb weaned by ewe at weaning was 28.7 ± 10.8kg/ewe. The ratios of lamb produced per ewe at birth and at weaning were 0.1 ± 0.03 and 0.6 ± 0.2, respectively. The lamb's birth weight showed a positive linear relationship with the age of the ewe, increasing by 115g per year of age. The regression equations adjusted for ewe age had maximum points ranging from 4.2 to 5.2, occurring at average age of 4,7years. The other characteristics showed a quadratic tendency. The results suggest the culling of ewes at five years of age to generate lambs with ideal weight at birth and at weaning raised in warm tropical pastures.

Estrous Responses of Kejobong Goat Synchronized using Progesterone Hormone

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of age based on estrous responses. Material used in this study were 36 heads of Kejobong doe, with average body weight 32.21±1.41 kg; average Body Condition Score (BCS) 2.5; black fur color; had given birth, with age ranged 1-1.5 years old (P1, n = 7); 1.5-2 years old (P2, n = 15) and 2.5-3 years old (P3, n = 14). The sample was then put on a vaginal sponge containing 20 mg of Medroxy Progesterone Acetate (MPA) in the reproductive tract for 14 days. Parameter observed were estrous onset; estrous behavior including restlessness, aggressiveness, frequent wagging tail and climbing the feeder tray or other livestock and vulva condition including vulva temperature, swelling vulva and vulva color. Result showed there was no significant difference (P>0.05) between P1, P 2 and P3 on estrous onset, estrous behavior and vulva condition. In conclusion, the estrous response of Kejobong goat which is synchronized to estrous with the hormone progesterone is not affected by the age and have the same estrous response after reaching maturity.

Management of Body Condition Score between Pregnancy Scanning and Lamb Marking Impacts the Survival of Triplet-Bearing Ewes and Their Lambs

This study evaluated the impacts of management of body condition score (BCS) between pregnancy scanning and lamb marking on the mortality of triplet-bearing ewes and their lambs at 19 research sites across Southern Australia. Triplet-bearing ewes of Maternal (crossbred or composite) or Merino breed were randomly allocated to treatment at pregnancy scanning at an average of 97 days from the start of joining: High or Low BCS. The BCS of individual ewes was assessed at pregnancy scanning, pre-lambing (average of 137 days from the start of joining) and marking (average of 165 days from the end of joining), and ewe and lamb mortality to marking, recorded for each mob. The average BCS at pregnancy scanning was 3.4 for Maternal ewes and 3.3 for Merino ewes. There were no breed by BCS treatment effects on the BCS of ewes at pregnancy scanning or lamb marking or on the change in BCS between pregnancy scanning and pre-lambing or between pre-lambing and marking. The change in BCS differed between the High and Low BCS treatments, between pregnancy scanning and pre-lambing (0.12 vs. −0.33; p &lt; 0.001) and between pre-lambing and marking (−0.39 vs. 0.07; p &lt; 0.001) but did not differ between breeds. The average BCS at marking for ewes managed at the High and Low BCS treatments was 3.1 and 3.0 for Maternals and 3.0 and 2.8 for Merinos. Survival of triplet-bearing Merino ewes (p &lt; 0.01) and their lambs (p &lt; 0.001) was greater when ewes were managed at the High BCS compared to the Low BCS. The BCS treatment did not impact the survival of Maternal ewes or their lambs. The survival of Merino but not Maternal lambs was higher when ewes were in greater BCS pre-lambing (p &lt; 0.01) and when ewes gained BCS between pregnancy scanning and pre-lambing (p &lt; 0.01). Ewe mortality was lower when ewes gained BCS between pregnancy scanning and pre-lambing (p &lt; 0.05). Merino ewes were more likely to die than Maternal ewes for a given change in BCS between pregnancy scanning and pre-lambing (p = 0.065). Overall, our findings demonstrate that producers should manage the nutrition of triplet-bearing Merino ewes so that ewes are in greater BCS at lambing and/or to gain BCS between pregnancy scanning and lambing to improve ewe and lamb survival. Triplet-bearing Maternal ewes should be managed to gain BCS between pregnancy scanning and lambing to improve ewe survival.

Evaluation of cortisol, thyroxine (T3) and triiodothyronine (T4) concentrations in preovulatory follicles in jennies.

Reference values of follicular fluid components at different stages of follicular development in jennies are unknown. It is important to estimate such values because the biochemical composition of follicular fluid provides a suitable microenvironment for oocyte development, growth and maturation. The experimental protocol was carried out in the Equine Reproduction Clinic of the FMVZ-UNAM and was approved by an Institutional Sub-committee for the Care and Use of Experimental Animals (SICUAE.MMVZ-2020/4-2). Seven healthy female donkeys “Mexican burro” with average body condition score of 3 on a scale of 1 to 5 (Svendsen et al. The professional Handbook of the Donkey. 2008), were monitored by transrectal ultrasonography through the Veterinary Digital Diagnostic Ultrasound System 5 MHz (Model, DUS 60 VET) with a multi-frequency linear transducer. The ovum pick up (OPU) by transvaginal aspiration (TVA) was performed in a total of 70 preovulatory follicles, 10 for each jenny using a real- time B- mode ultrasound vaginal 6.5 MHz (Sonovet 600) with curvilinear transducer and 12 gauge (12 G) needle. Follicular fluid components were measured and analyzed by Luminex Multiplex Assays at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. The relationship between cortisol, thyroxine (T3) and triiodothyronine (T4) concentrations in preovulatory follicles and follicular size was assessed. The preovulatory follicles are classified in three groups accordingto the diameter: small (27-30 mm), medium (31-35 mm) and large (36-38 mm). Concentrations of cortisol were lower in the large follicles group (18.8 ng/ml) compared with small (721.44 ng/ml) and medium follicles (361 ng/ml). The concentrations of thyroxine were higher in the medium follicle group (49 ng/ml) than in the small (21ng/ml) and large follicle groups (15.9 ng/ml). Finally, the concentration of triiodothyronine was higher in the small follicles group (1043 ng/ml) followed by the medium (545 ng/ml) and the lowest concentration was in the large follicles group (22 ng/ml). It is concluded that thyroxine concentrations are lower than T4 concentrations in preovulatory follicles irrespective of size as reported for human follicular fluid (Wakim. et. al. Fertil Steril 1993; 59(6) 1187–1190). Furthermore, no relationship was found between preovulatory follicular size and thyroxine hormone concentrations. It has been suggested that cortisol and triiodothyronine concentrations are related to preovulatory follicle size. Cortisol concentrations are higher in preovulatory follicles that in subordinate follicles and cortisol is a mediator of apoptosis in granulosa cells, differentiation, development and maturation of tissues, specifically in the oocyte (Acosta & Miyamoto. Anim Reprod Sci 2004; 82:127-140, Scarlett. et al. Dom Anim Endocrinol 2016; 59:11-22). The role of cortisol within the different sizes of preovulatory follicles is unknown.

Comparison of reproductive performance of Gembrong goats and male Boerka goats

&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Objective: &lt;/strong&gt;This study aims to compare the reproductive performance of Boerka goats and Gembrong goats.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods: &lt;/strong&gt;The research was conducted at the Sei Putih Slaughter Goat Research Workshop in Deli Serdang, North Sumatra. In this study, male Boerka (n=3) and Gembrong (n=3) goats, aged 3 years and having the same average Body Condition Score (BCS) of 3.83±0.29, were used. Reproductive performance observed included scrotal circumference, libido score, and semen quality macroscopically (volume, color, odor, and consistency) and microscopically (concentration, motility, viability, and abnormalities). The data collected was tabulated and analyzed by t test.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results: &lt;/strong&gt;Of all the parameters of reproductive performance examined, it is known that only the parameters of semen volume (ml) and sperm concentration (x106 cells/ml) showed a significant difference (P&amp;lt;0.05) between Gembrong goats vs. Boerka goats with values of 0.50±0.0 vs. 1.0±0.20 and 1.557±712 vs. 4.500±317.65, respectively, while the other parameters did not show a significant difference (P&amp;gt;0.05).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; It was concluded that the volume and concentration of Boerka goats were higher than Gembrong goats.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Effects of Nutritional Plane at Breeding on Feed Intake, Body Weight, Condition Score, Mass Indexes, and Chemical Composition, and Reproductive Performance of Hair Sheep.

This study was conducted to assess effects of the nutritional plane before and during breeding on feed intake, body weight (BW) change, reproductive performance, body condition score (BCS), body mass indexes (BMI), and body composition of three breeds of hair sheep. Twenty-five Dorper, 27 Katahdin, and 33 St. Croix ewes were allocated to groups and treatments based on initial BW and age. Supplementation treatments were soybean meal fed at 0.16% BW (LS) and a mixture of 25% soybean meal and 75% ground corn given at 0.8% BW (HS; dry matter basis) for 88 to 102 days including 17 days after breeding. Wheat straw intake (% BW) was greater (p < 0.01) for LS than for HS. Average daily gain and BCS change were similar among breeds, but both were greater for HS vs. LS. Birth rate, litter size, total litter birth weight, gestation length, and number of services were similar among breeds (p > 0.05), although individual lamb birth weight was lower for St. Croix than for Katahdin (p < 0.05). None of these reproductive variables were influenced by treatment or the breed × treatment interaction (p > 0.05). There were no breed differences in whole body concentrations of water, fat, protein, ash, or energy in week 0 or 4, but in 8 week concentrations of water, protein, and ash were greatest among breeds for St. Croix (p < 0.05) and levels of fat and energy were lower for St. Croix than for Dorper (p < 0.05). In week 8, total amounts and concentrations of fat and energy were greater for HS vs. LS and those of water, protein, and ash were less for HS (p < 0.05). There were interactions (p < 0.05) between treatment and period in blood concentrations of cholesterol and non-esterified fatty acids and between breed, treatment, and period in level of triglycerides and total antioxidant capacity. The concentration of cortisol was greater for HS vs. LS (p < 0.05). In conclusion, supplementation did not influence reproductive performance despite differences in BW and BCS change, which may be due to the initial moderate BCS and greater wheat straw intake for the LS treatment.

Effects of graded levels of dietary chromium-yeast on rumen and blood metabolites, feed digestibility, and performance of goats

The study was conducted to determine the effect of dietary supplementation of Chromium-yeast minerals on consumption, feed digestibility, rumen and blood metabolites, Average Daily Gain (ADG) and body condition score (BCS). The research was conducted at Gunung Tugel Farm, Banyumas, Central Java, Indonesia. The material used was 24 male Jawarandu goats with an average initial weight of 25 ± 1.23 kg, individual cages, the feed given consisted of elephant grass silage and concentrate. The treatment feed contains chromium-yeast at levels of 0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 mg/kg. The research method used was experimental using a completely randomized design. There were 4 treatments tested, namely T0 (70% concentrate + 30% elephant grass silage), T1 (70% concentrate + 30% elephant grass silage + 0.5 mg/kg chromium-yeast), T2 (70% concentrate + 30% elephant grass silage + 1 mg/kg chromium-yeast) and T3 (70% concentrate + 30% elephant grass silage + 1.5 mg/kg chromium-yeast). Each treatment was repeated 6 times so there were 24 trials. The further test used is polynomial orthogonal. The variables measured in this study were feed consumption, feed digestibility, rumen metabolite products, daily body weight gain and body condition score. The results of the analysis of variance showed that the treatment had a significant effect on dry matter and organic matter consumption, feed digestibility, rumen volatile fatty acids (VFA), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) and blood glucose 3 h post-feeding, chromium-yeast levels, and had a very significant effect on ADG and BCS. In conclusion, chromium-yeast supplementation was able to improve goat performance with optimal levels ranging from 1.04–1.36 mg/kg of feed.

Evaluation of Megasphaera elsdenii supplementation on rumen fermentation, production performance, carcass traits and health of ruminants: a meta-analysis.

This study was conducted to evaluate the use of Megasphaera elsdenii (M. elsdenii) as a probiotic on rumen fermentation, production performance, carcass traits and health of ruminants by integrating data from various related studies using meta-analysis. A total of 32 studies (consisted of 136 data points) were obtained and integrated into a database. The parameters integrated were fermentation products, rumen microbes, production performance, carcass quality, animal health, blood and urine metabolites. Statistical analysis of the compiled database used a mixed model methodology. Different studies were considered random effects, while M. elsdenii supplementation doses were considered fixed effects. p-values and the Akaike information criterion were employed as model statistics. The model was deemed significant at p<0.05 or had a tendency to be significant when p-value between 0.05〈p〈0.10. Supplementation with M. elsdenii increased (p<0.05) some proportion of fermented rumen products such as propionate, butyrate, isobutyrate, and valerate, and significantly reduced (p<0.05) lactic acid concentration, acetate proportion, total bacterial population and methane emission. Furthermore, the probiotic supplementation enhanced (p<0.05) livestock production performance, especially in the average daily gain and body condition score. Regarding the carcass quality, hot carcass weight and carcass gain were elevated (p<0.05) due to the M. elsdenii supplementation. Animal health also showed improvement as indicated by the lower (p<0.05) diarrhoea and bloat incidences as well as the liver abscess. However, M. elsdenii supplementation had negligible effects on blood and urine metabolites of ruminants. Supplementation of M. elsdenii is capable of decreasing ruminal lactic acid concentration, enhancing rumen health, elevating some favourable rumen fermentation products, and in turn, increasing production performance of ruminants.

Comparative efficacy of three synchronization protocols in anestrous goats (Capra hircus)

The goal of this experiment was to compare the effectiveness of three popular synchronization protocols, viz. ovsynch, double prostaglandin (PGF2? /PG) injections, and MAP (Medroxyprogesterone acetate) sponges, in anestrous goats. Twenty one non pregnant multiparous anestrous goats with an average body condition score (BCS = 2.5) were selected. After the last PG injection, all the goats were exposed to three fertile bucks. They were observed to be in standing estrus. For further confirmation of copulation, a vaginal cytology test was performed for the presence of sperm inside the vaginal smear. Serum estradiol (E2) peaks were also estimated by using radioimmunoassay in estrus goats. MAP sponge efficiency with respect to estrus induction was found to be superior (57%) as compared to the rest (Ovsynch14 and PG 0%) (p&lt; 0.05). Post PG standing estrus time in ovsynch and MAP groups was recorded as 48 h and 44 ± 12 h, respectively. The double PG group totally failed to show standing estrus. E2 peak levels ranging from 11-38 pg/ml in ovsynch and 10–25 pg/ml in the MAP group were observed in estrus goats. This study found the MAP sponge protocol most efficient for inducing estrus in anestrous goats.

PSII-10 The Influence of Synovex-C Growth Implants at Weaning with Different Supplementation Levels on Growth Performance and Antral Follicle Counts in Developing Beef Heifers

Abstract Dormant forage at weaning in Southwestern rangelands may not be nutritionally sufficient to support growth potential of calves administered a growth promoting implant. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the influence of level of supplementation when heifers were administered a Synovex-C implant at weaning on growth and antral follicle counts (AFC). At weaning (8 months old), heifers (n = 17) were stratified by bodyweights (BW) and AFC and assigned to receive one of two levels of supplement (High or Low) and implant (Implant and No Implant; all heifers received a Synovex C implant at 2 months old). Heifers assigned to the Implant group received a second Synovex-C implant at weaning, thus creating four treatment groups: High Implant (n = 4), High No Implant (n = 4), Low Implant (n = 5), and Low No Implant (n = 4). Heifers were utilized in a complete randomized block design with a 2 x 2 factorial. Heifers were individually fed supplement three times a week for 26 weeks with refusals being weighed after each feeding to determine intake. During the receiving phase High and Low heifers were offered 1.94 kg/h/d and 1.17 kg/h/d, respectively, of 20% CP cube for the first 4 weeks of the study. After acclimation High and Low heifers were offered 1.26 kg/h/d and 0.68 kg/h/d, respectively, of 32% CP cube for the remainder of the study. Biweekly BW and monthly body condition scores (BCS) were recorded. Prior to the start of the project and 45 d before the breeding season, AFC were conducted via transrectal ultrasonography. Average daily gain (ADG), BW, and BCS were analyzed as repeated measures in SAS (PROC MIXED). Antral follicle counts were analyzed using MIXED procedures in SAS. Implant, supplement level, implant × supplement level, and implant × supplement level × week did not impact BW or BCS (P ≥ 0.22). Week (P &amp;lt; 0.0001), implant × week (P &amp;lt; 0.0004), and supplement level × week (P &amp;lt; 0.0001) impacted BW. Week (P &amp;lt; 0.0001), implant × week (P = 0.008), and supplement level × week (P = 0.0005) influenced ADG. Implant heifers tended to have increased ADG (P &amp;lt; 0.09) and High Implant heifers tended to have increased ADG compared to the other implant x supplement level treatments (P ≤ 0.09). Body condition score was significantly different across weeks (P &amp;lt; 0.0001). There was no difference between week (P = 0.64) on AFC. Implant (P &amp;gt; 0.22), supplement level (P &amp;gt; 0.43), and implant x supplement level (P &amp;gt; 0.80) did not influence AFC. In conclusion, administration of a second Synovex-C implant at weaning did not impact AFC and feeding implanted heifers at a higher supplementation level tended to improve ADG.

Survey of Pet Owner Attitudes on Diet Choices and Feeding Practices for Their Pets in Portugal.

Simple SummaryNew challenges for veterinarians and the pet food industry arise from emerging trends in pet foods, motivated by changes in pet owner’s beliefs and choices. Despite external influences, pet owners are the ones who ultimately decide on what and how to feed their pets. Therefore, a better understanding of pet food trends can be achieved by investigating motivations and husbandry practices related to feeding and diet. The objective of this study was to identify trends in pet food in Portugal using a preliminary survey. While most pets are fed commercial diets, there is a trend for an increasing interest in alternative diets, especially for organic and natural pet diets. This preference change is likely motivated by a greater interest in ingredients used in pet food, especially supporting a greater use of meat and lower use of carbohydrate sources. Therefore, alternative diets should be the focus of more recognition in research, pet food industry, and veterinarian practice.Feeding practices and perceptions of pet owners determine consumer decisions on pet foods and influence the health of companion animals. The objective of the survey was to study emerging trends on pet food diets in Portugal by conducting a preliminary survey. A survey of 74 pet owners revealed that most fed pets with commercial diets (67.6%) bought in supermarkets (40.3%), spending a monthly average of EUR 30, following healthy practices (e.g., ≥30 min of exercise), which translated to an average self-reported pet body condition score of 3. Information about pet foods mainly originates from the animal’s veterinarian (64.9%), followed by the internet (16.2%). A trend for a growing interest in alternative diets (e.g., natural and organic) was identified, being already the second most consumed diet type (19.0%), perceived as being of a higher quality, and as a topic of interest (38.6%). This interest likely originates from a higher weighting of the ingredient list (31.5%) in consumer choices and beliefs that commercial diets should consist of a higher proportion of meat (29.3%) and less carbohydrates (38.7%). Therefore, more research is needed on the nutritional adequacy of alternative diets and uncommon ingredients, the pet food industry will have to adapt to changing consumer behaviors, and veterinarians should be available to discuss and oversee novel dietary practices in companion animals.

Dietary Chromium Picolinate Supplementation Improves Glucose Utilization in Transition Calf by Ameliorating Insulin Response.

The decrease in insulin sensitivity during the transition of preruminant calves into ruminant animals is the common denominator. Meanwhile, this adaptation predisposes dairy calves towards various health issues and metabolic disorders that occur in later life. Chromium (Cr) has been shown to potentiate insulin functioning and is thereby helpful in reducing the risk of these metabolic disorders. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of Cr supplementation on the insulin sensitivity and health status in Hariana calves during their transition period. A total of 24 preruminant Hariana calves were randomly allocated into four groups (6 calves per group) for a period of 90days. Calves either received a basal diet devoid of supplemental Cr (control; Cr0.0 group) or were supplemented with 0.05mg (Cr0.05 group), 0.10mg (Cr0.10 group), and 0.15mg (Cr0.15 group) of Cr per kg BW0.75 as Cr-picolinate (Cr-Pic). To determine the effect of Cr supplementation on the insulin response, glucose-insulin-non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) kinetics was studied during the intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). A rapid glucose disappearance (p < 0.05) with unaltered insulin kinetics during IVGTT and OLTT indicates greater insulin sensitivity in calves supplemented with 0.10 and 0.15mg of Cr per kg BW0.75. Improved insulin sensitivity in the Cr0.10 and Cr0.15 groups was further confirmed by higher (p < 0.05) values of the insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI), revised quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (RQUICKI), and lower (p < 0.05) values of the homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) during IVGTT. Mean serum non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAm), and insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) levels were the highest (p < 0.05) and cortisol concentrations were the lowest (p < 0.05) in the Cr0.15 groups. Unlike IVGTT, there was no effect of treatment, period, and treatment × period interaction on mean serum glucose and insulin levels during OGTT. However, Cr-supplemented calves had a higher (p < 0.05) glucose clearance rate (gCR). Serum IRS-1 concentrations during OGTT were also higher (p < 0.05) in the Cr0.10 and Cr0.15 groups than in the other groups. Serum Cr levels increased dose dependently and were the highest (p < 0.05) in calves fed a diet supplemented with 0.15mg Cr per kg BW0.75. There was no effect of treatment on average daily gain (ADG) and body condition score (BCS) while frequency and duration of diarrhea were lower and fecal score was better in Cr-supplemented calves. The current findings show that Cr supplementation improved glucose utilization and health status in calves during their transition period by improving insulin sensitivity.

Local treatment for canine anal sacculitis: A retrospective study of 33 dogs.

BackgroundLittle information has been published regarding treatment of canine anal sacculitis (AS).ObjectivesPrimary objective: determine the outcomes of AS local treatment at the referral dermatology service of the authors' institution. Secondary objective: determine signalment, body condition score (BCS), stool quality and comorbidities associated with AS.AnimalsThirty‐three dogs with AS presented to the referral dermatology service between 1 January 2010 and 31 March 2021.Materials and methodsAn electronic medical record search was conducted. Information regarding sex, breed, age at disease onset, weight, BCS, stool quality, comorbidities, treatment and treatment outcome were collected. Treatment outcome was categorised as “resolved clinically”, “clinical signs resolved per owner”, “did not complete treatment” or “failed”. Dogs were excluded if seen by another service, not treated for AS, or if perianal sinuses (fistulae), anal sac masses, or anal sac abscesses were identified.ResultsNineteen dogs were male and 14 female. Twenty‐four breeds were included. Average age at disease onset was 4.4 years. Average BCS was 5.8 of 9. Stool quality was “poor” in seven of 33 and normal in 23 of 33 cases. Atopic dermatitis was the most common comorbidity (12 of 33). Treatment typically consisted of anal sac flushing with saline followed by infusion using a commercially available steroid/antibiotic/antifungal ointment. Treatment was repeated on average 2.9 times. Resolution of AS was obtained in 24 of 33 cases, clinical signs resolved per owner in four of 33, five of 33 cases did not complete treatment, and no cases failed treatment.Conclusions and clinical relevanceLocal treatment with flushing and infusion is effective for treating AS in dogs.

MICROSTRUCTURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE Longissimus dorsi MUSCLE IN BRAHMAN CROSS CATTLE

This study aimed to analyze the muscle microstructure of longissimus dorsi Brahman cross (BX) cattle slaughtered at the slaughterhouse of North Aceh District. The meat samples for the study were taken from three male BX cattle aged 18-30 months with body weights ranging from 400 kg to 500 kg and the average body condition scores (BCS) of 3-4. The muscle used was the longissimus dorsi muscle. The mean (±SE) diameter and cross-sectional area (CSA) of muscle fibers and the percentage of fast fibers in the longissimus dorsi BX muscle were 71.69±1.23 µm, 4263.43±305.69 µm2 , and 48.17±8.81%, respectively. This study concluded that the longissimus dorsi muscle of the BX has relatively large muscle fibers, some of which in each fascicle are composed of fast muscle (fast fiber/type II).

Prevalence and associated factors of gastrointestinal helminthiasis of lactating cow and effect of strategic deworming on milk quantity, fat, and protein in Kucha, Ethiopia

BackgroundGastrointestinal helminthiasis poses economic impacts on the dairy sector by reducing milk production. This study aimed at estimating the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthiasis, the burden of helminths, and appraising potential factors associated with the prevalence in lactating cows. The study was also designed to elucidate the effects of anthelmintic treatment on milk yield, milk fat, and protein content in the Kucha district.MethodsA cross-sectional and field clinical trial study designs were used. Standard parasitological techniques (floatation and sedimentation) were employed to detect cows’ infection status. McMaster and Stoll’s egg counting methods were used to estimate helminths' burden. All putative factors that might have been linked with infection were recorded by field observations and farmers' interviews. Sixty cows tested positive for the parasitic infection in the cross-sectional study design were randomly assigned into one of the two groups (dewormed Vs control). Milk yield, milk fat and protein contents were recorded in both groups on day zero and then on weekly basis. Descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression, and repeated measure ANOVA were used to analyze the data.ResultsOverall, of 422 examined cows, 150 (35.5%, 95% CI; 30.9-40.3%) were infected with at least one of the gastrointestinal helminth parasites. Strongyle nematode was the predominant type accounting for 52% of the total record. Analysis of fecal egg count (FEC) in infected cows depicts the highest record of Parampistomum egg, accounting 457.14 ± 275.45 Egg per gram (EPG) of feces. The prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthiasis in cow that had an average body condition score of 1.7 was over two fold higher (OR = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.17–4.17, P = 0.016) than in cows with 6.3 body condition score. A significant improvement in milk yield, milk fat, and milk protein was observed in dewormed cows over 28 days period.ConclusionGastrointestinal helminthiasis is threatening the welfare of lactating cows in Kucha, Ethiopia given its negative association with the body condition score. Gastrointestinal helminths are responsible for the reduction of milk yield and loss of milk fat and protein. However, an improvement in milk yield, milk fat, and milk protein after deworming using Tetrox® (Tetramisole and Oxyclozanide combination), a new drug to the area/ a drug used by relatively few farmers in the study area, proves the effectiveness of strategic deworming.