Spanish Goats Research Articles

Differential gene expression analysis using RNA-seq in the blood of goats exposed to transportation stress

Transportation stress causes significant changes in physiological responses in goats; however, studies exploring the transcriptome of stress are very limited. The objective of this study was to determine the differential gene expressions and related pathways in the blood samples using RNA-seq procedure in Spanish goats subjected to different durations of transportation stress. Fifty-four male Spanish goats (8-mo old; BW = 29.7 ± 2.03 kg) were randomly subjected to one of three treatments (TRT; n = 18 goats/treatment): (1) transported for 180 min, (2) transported for 30 min, or (3) held in pens (control). Blood samples were collected before and after treatment for stress hormone, metabolite, and transcriptomic analysis. RNA-seq technology was used to obtain the transcriptome profiles of blood. Analysis of physiological data using SAS showed that plasma cortisol concentrations were higher (P < 0.01) in 180 min and 30 min groups compared to the control group. Enrichment analysis of DEGs related to transportation stress through Gene Ontology and KEGG databases revealed that the differentially expressed genes related to inflammatory pathways, caspases, and apoptosis such as IL1R2, CASP14, CD14, TLR4, and MAPK14 were highly enriched in the transported group of goats compared to non-transported goats. Stress in goats leads to a sequence of events at cellular and molecular levels that causes inflammation and apoptosis.

Selecting goats for juniper consumption did not improve their liver Phase I detoxification.

A sodium pentobarbital-induced sleep time study was conducted on 15 adult intact male Boer × Spanish goats selected for high (J+, n = 7) or low (J-, n = 8) juniper consumption (estimated breeding values of 13.1 ± 1.0 and -14.3 ± 0.8, respectively; mean ± standard deviation). Pentobarbital sleep time is an in vivo assay of Phase I hepatic metabolism that can be induced by exposure to barbiturates and monoterpenes. Monoterpenes and pentobarbital are initially oxidized by this pathway; thus, we hypothesized that J+ goats would have shorter sleep times than J- goats. Time to the righting reflex after pentobarbital-induced sleep was measured in all goats following a minimum period of 21 d on three different diets: 1) grazing juniper-infested rangeland (JIR), 2) forage diet with no monoterpenes (M0), and 3) forage diet with 8 g/kg added monoterpenes from camphor, sabinene, and α-pinene in a w/w ratio of 5:4:1 (M+). Fecal samples from the JIR diet were analyzed with near-infrared spectroscopy for the percentage of juniper in the diet. Fecal samples from the JIR and M+ diets were analyzed for camphor and sabinene concentrations. The percentage of juniper in the diet of J+ goats grazing rangelands was greater (P = 0.001) than J- goats (31.1% and 18.6%, respectively). Sleep time did not differ between selection lines (P = 0.36). However, the sleep time of the goats fed M+ diet was 26 min shorter (P < 0.001) than JIR or M0 diets, which were equal. The concentration of camphor and sabinene in the feces was higher (P < 0.001) for goats on the M+ diet than on the JIR diet. There were no differences between selection lines in the serum enzymes indicative of liver disease (aspartate aminotransferase, bilirubin, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and glutamate dehydrogenase; P > 0.12), and all treatment means were within the reference interval. Selecting goats for juniper consumption did not affect the Phase I detoxification system, and several alternative hypotheses for differences in juniper consumption between J+ and J- goats are discussed.

Goats Naturally Infected with the Spanish Goat Encephalitis Virus (SGEV): Pathological Features and An Outbreak

In autumn 2011, a disease outbreak caused by Spanish goat encephalitis virus (SGEV) was reported in a herd of goats from Asturias (north-western Spain), expanding the known geographic distribution of tick-borne encephalitis in Europe. The virus was classified as a new subtype (subspecies) within the Louping-ill virus species of the mammalian tick-borne flavivirus group. The aims of the present study were to describe the pathology in goats naturally infected with SGEV, as well as discuss the pathogenesis of the disease in that outbreak. A total of 22/85 (25.88%) goats (20 adults and 2 kids) died between October 2011 and June 2012, showing neurological clinical signs. Over three years, the mortality rate in the herd reached 100%. Neuropathological lesions caused by SGEV were severe and widespread throughout the central nervous system but were more severe and numerous in the proximal cervical spinal cord, medulla oblongata, pons and cerebellar cortex. They consisted of neuron necrosis, neuronophagia, mononuclear inflammatory cell perivascular cuffs (lymphocytes, plasma cells and macrophages) and gliosis. The distribution of viral antigens was restricted to the cytoplasm of neurons in several brain areas but not associated with inflammatory foci nor inflammatory cells. SGEV should be considered a significant pathogen of goats that results in severe neurological clinical disease and high mortality.

RNA-Seq exploration of the influence of stress on meat quality in Spanish goats

Studies exploring the transcriptome of stress and its effects on meat quality are very limited, particularly in goats. Fifty-four male Spanish goats (8-mo old; BW = 29.7 ± 2.03 kg) were randomly subjected to one of three treatments (TRT; n = 18 goats/treatment): (1) transported for 180 min, (2) transported for 30 min, or (3) held in pens (control) to analyze the transcriptome of stress and meat quality in goats using RNA-seq technology. Blood samples were collected before and after treatment, and meat samples were collected after humane slaughter for stress hormone, meat quality (Longissimus dorsi), and transcriptomic analysis. Plasma epinephrine concentrations were higher (P < 0.01) in 180 min and 30 min groups compared to the control group; however, norepinephrine concentrations were not affected by the treatment. Muscle glycogen concentrations (15 min postmortem) were lower (P < 0.01) in both 30 min and 180 min groups compared to the control group. Calpastatin levels were higher (P < 0.01) in 180 min and 30 min groups than the control group. Warner–Bratzler shear force values of loin chops were the highest in the 180 min group (4 ± 0.15, kg), lowest in the control group (3.51 ± 0.10, kg), and intermediate in the 30 min group (3.78 ± 0.09, kg; P < 0.01) both at day 1 and day 6 aging time. Additionally, desmin levels of day 6 samples were lowest in the control group, highest in 180 min group, and intermediate in 30 min group (P < 0.05). RNA-seq results showed that a total of 10,633 genes were differentially expressed (5194 up regulated; 5439 down regulated) among all comparisons (blood and day 1 and day 6 muscle samples). Among these differentially expressed genes (DEGs), KLF9, AMPK, FOXO3, PTX3, GADD45, PTPN1, CASP7, MAPK4, HSPA12A, and JAK-STAT were probably associated with the effects of stress on skeletal muscle proteins and involved in biological process such as cellular response to corticosteroid stimulus, endoplasmic reticulum stress, insulin resistance, DNA repair, apoptosis, MAPK cascade and regulation of proteolysis. The KEGG analysis revealed that AMPK and JAK-SAT signaling pathways and autophagy were among the top 20 enriched pathways in our treatment comparisons. The results provide an understanding of the genes and pathways involved in stress responses and related changes in postmortem muscle metabolism and meat quality characteristics in goats.

Metabolomic exploration of the effects of habituation to livestock trailer and extended transportation in goats.

Goats raised for meat production are often transported long distances. Twelve-month-old male Spanish goats were used to determine the effects of habituation to trailers on plasma metabolomic profiles when transported for extended periods. In a split-plot design, 168 goats were separated into two treatment (TRT; whole plot) groups and maintained on two different paddocks. Concentrate supplement was fed to one group inside two livestock trailers (habituated group, H), while the other group received the same quantity of concentrate, but not inside the trailers (non-habituated, NH). Goats were subjected to a 10-h transportation stress in 4 replicates (n = 21 goats/replicate/TRT) after 4 weeks of habituation period. Blood samples were collected prior to loading, 20min after loading (0h), and at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10h of transportation (Time; subplot). A targeted quantitative metabolomics approach was employed to analyze the samples. The data were analyzed using R software and MIXED procedures in SAS. Several amino acids (alanine, serine, glycine, histidine, glutamate, trans-hydroxyproline, asparagine, threonine, methylhistidine, ornithine, proline, leucine, tryptophan) were higher (p < 0.05) in the H group compared to the NH group. Six long-chain acylcarnitines were higher (p < 0.05), while free (C0) and short-chain (C3, C5) carnitines were lower (p < 0.05) in the NH goats compared to the H goats. In general, amino acid concentrations decreased and long-chain acylcarnitine (>C10) levels increased with transportation time (p < 0.05). Butyric acid, α-ketoglutaric acid, and α-aminoadipic acid concentrations were lower (p < 0.05) and β-hydroxybutyric acid concentrations were higher in the NH goats compared to the H goats. Plasma glucose, non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and urea nitrogen concentrations were significantly influenced by Time (p < 0.01). Plasma NEFA concentrations were significantly lower (p < 0.01) in the H group than the NH group. Habituation to trailers can be beneficial in enhancing stress coping abilities in goats due to higher concentrations of metabolites such as butyrate and certain amino acids that support antioxidant activities and immune function. Plasma long-chain acylcarnitines may be good indicators of stress during long-distance transportation in goats.

372 Selecting Goats for Juniper Consumption Increases Pentobarbital-Induced Sleep Time

Abstract A sodium pentobarbital-induced sleep time (ST) study was conducted on intact males, Boer x Spanish goats (n = 30), selected for high (J+) or low juniper (J-) consumption with the objective to compare the Phase I detoxification system of the genetic divergent lines (EBV of 13.1 ± 0.2 and -14.2 ± 0.3, respectively). The ST study was conducted following a minimum period of 21 days on three different diets: grazing juniper infested rangeland (JIR), forage diet with no monoterpenes (M0), and forage diet with 8 g/kg added camphor, sabinene, and α-pinene monoterpenes in a ratio of 5:4:1 (M+). Fecal samples from goats on the JIR and M+ diets were analyzed for camphor and sabinene, and, when on the JIR diet, analyzed for percentage juniper in the diet using previously developed NIRS calibrations. Data were submitted to ANOVA analysis with repeated measures, assuming as significant when alpha was less than 10% (P &amp;lt; 0.10) by the F test. Percentage of juniper in the diet of J+ goats on JIP (38.6 ± 3.4%) was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.001) than J- goats (28.0 ± 3.8%). The J+ goats slept 15.1 (P = 0.02), 14.3 (P = 0.06), and 15.8 (P = 0.06) minutes longer than J- goats on JIR, M0, and M+ diets, respectively. There was no difference in ST between diets, and there was no interaction line × diet. Goats from the J+ line had higher concentrations of camphor in their feces on the JIR (P = 0.07) and M+ (P = 0.09) diets, while sabinene concentration was similar. Goats selected for juniper consumption had longer ST than J- goats which indicates a less efficient Phase I detoxification system, probably because there were less monoterpenes in the blood to be metabolized in the liver by the cytochromes P450 enzymes.

PSI-11 Effect of Garlic Barrier on Fecal egg Count and Protein Secretion in Goats

Abstract The present study was carried out to determine the effect of garlic on egg counts and secretion of Galectins (Gals) in goat blood. Garlic (Allium sativum) has been used as medicinal herb since time immemorial in almost every known civilization. It has antibiotic, anti-helminthic and anti-inflammatory properties. Galectins (Gals) are a family of β-galactosidase binding proteins that have a conserved carbohydrate recognition domain. They are involved in cell adhesion, migration, activation, proliferation, apoptosis and modulate pathological processes such as inflammation. Twelve (N=12) adult female clinically healthy Boer x Spanish goats were divided into two treatment groups (N=6 each) used. Treatment group 1 was drenched with 10 ml of Garlic barrier as recommended by the manufacturer (Garlic Barrier, Glendale, CA) and Treatment group 2 was drenched with water over a four-week period. Fecal and blood samples were collected weekly. Eggs per gram was evaluated using Modified McMaster method and the total plasma protein concentration was assessed using the BCA assay (Pierce). All variables were assessed using a t-test (SAS analysis software version 9.0 at p≤0.05). Garlic treatment affected the fecal egg count and plasma protein concentration when compared to untreated controls. The fecal egg count was reduced in animals treated with garlic. The effect varied over time. Garlic EPG in weeks 1 (p&amp;lt;0.004) and 3 (p&amp;lt;0.027) of treatment. A significant increase in total protein concentration (p&amp;lt;0.004) was observed. Garlic treatment has an effect on GIN levels and the inflammatory response. The time dependent effects may indicate parasite, infection stage specific targets and need further study.

PSVIII-21 Modulation of Goat Plasma Proteins Using Different Preparations of Garlic

Abstract The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different garlic preparations on plasma protein concentration and Galectin secretion in goat blood. Inflammatory diseases caused by pathogens including gastrointestinal parasites impact goat gut health and productivity. Changes in plasma protein concentration are indicators of health status with application in inflammatory disease diagnosis and prognosis. Galectins (Gals) are small soluble proteins that contain one or two carbohydrate recognition domains (CRDS). ‘Prototype’ galectin-1, -2, -7, contain one CRD, Galectin 3 is chimeric, and galectin-4, -8, -9 and -12, are tandem repeat galectins with two CRDs. Galectins regulate biologic functions, immunity and disease pathogenesis and can serve as biomarkers. Garlic (Allium sativum) is a medicinal herb that has anti-parasitic and immuno-modulatory effects. Six (N=6) adult female clinically healthy Boer x Spanish goats were used. Blood was collected from the jugular vein and treated with different concentrations of fresh garlic, allicin, garlic barrier, or aged garlic (Sigma aldich). Total plasma protein secretion was evaluated using the BCA assay. Secretion of Gals 1(Prototype), Gal 3 (chimera type) and Gal 9 (tandem-repeat type) determined using commercial ELISA kits as recommended by the manufacturer. All variables were assessed using SAS analysis software (version 9.0, Sas Institute Cary, p≤0.05). Garlic treatment had a dose dependent effect on total plasma protein and Gals secretion. The protein secretion was affected by different types of garlic. Allicin (72.86μg/ml) reduced the concentration of plasma proteins. No change was observed with fresh garlic (156.334μg/ml) and garlic barrier (160.73μg/ml). Garlic barrier treatment increased protein secretion (6.3%) in goat blood. All Gals were detected (Gals 1 &amp;gt;9 &amp;gt;3), with a variable response to Garlic preparation (Garlic barrier &amp;gt; fresh garlic Gals secretion). Garlic modulates protein secretion. Studies are needed to determine the effect of different preparations on leukocytes and molecular targets in goat blood.

PSIII-A-7 Conditioning of Goats to Livestock Trailer: Effects on Physiological Stress Responses During Long-Distance Transportation

Abstract Meat goats are often transported long distances under commercial situations in the US. In a split-plot design, 168 twelve-month-old male Spanish goats were used to determine the effects of habituation to trailers on behavior and stress responses when transported for long periods. Animals were separated into two treatment (TRT) groups and maintained on two different paddocks. Concentrate supplement was fed to one group inside two livestock trailers (5.0 × 2.3 m each; habituated group, H), while the other group received the same quantity of concentrate, but not inside the trailers (non-habituated, NH). After 4 weeks of habituation period, goats were subjected to a 10-hour transportation stress in 4 replicates (n = 21 goats/replicate/TRT). Blood samples were collected prior to loading (Preload), 20 min after loading (0 h), and at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 h of transportation (Time). Behaviors of goats after loading were not affected by treatment. Plasma cortisol, glucose, and urea nitrogen concentrations and creatine kinase (CK) activities were significantly influenced by Time (P &amp;lt; 0.01). Plasma cortisol was not affected by TRT; however, glucose and CK in the H group tended to be lower than the NH group. Plasma non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations were significantly lower (P &amp;lt; 0.01) in the H group than the NH group, likely in response to epinephrine release. There was a TRT × Time effect (P &amp;lt; 0.05) on CK activities, with the values increasing in the NH group and decreasing in the H group during the first two hours of transportation. Lymphocyte to neutrophil ratio also increased (P &amp;lt; 0.01) over transportation time. Habituation to trailer may be beneficial during long distance transportation of goats as indicated by certain physiological stress responses. Habituation may also facilitate the loading process, based on behavioral observations.

PSIII-A-5 Blood Catecholamine Profiling of Transportation Stress in Goats Previously Habituated to Livestock Trailer

Abstract Long distance transportation can cause significant physiological changes in goats that can impact their wellbeing. This experiment was conducted to determine the effects of habituation to livestock trailer on plasma catecholamine profile in goats transported for long periods. A total of 168 intact male Spanish goats were separated into two treatment (TRT) groups and maintained on two different paddocks in a split-plot design. Concentrate supplement was fed to one group inside two livestock trailers (5.0 × 2.3 m each; habituated group, H), while the other group received the concentrate supplement, but not inside the trailers (non-habituated, NH). After 4 weeks of habituation period, goats were subjected to a 10-hour transportation stress in 4 replicates (n = 21 goats/replicate/TRT). Blood samples were collected prior to loading (Preload), 20 min after loading (0 h), and at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 h of transportation (Time) for catecholamine analysis using a sensitive, high-throughput GC-MS/MS method. Habituation did not have any significant effect on dopamine, norepinephrine, and normetanephrine concentrations, while there was a tendency for TRT effect (P &amp;lt; 0.1) on epinephrine, tyramine, and metanephrine concentrations. Phenyethylamine and 5-methoxytryptamine concentrations were significantly higher (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in the H group compared to the NH group, which may enhance emotional wellbeing and energy levels. While both dopamine and 5-methoxytryptamine concentrations decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) with transportation time, dopamine concentrations increased again at 10 h. Plasma metanephrine concentrations were 0.86, 0.85, 4.22, 3.68, 2.30, 2.05, 2.14 (SEM = 0.327) nM, respectively at Preload, 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 h, indicating that stress peaked during the initial hours and decreased thereafter. Interaction effects were not significant. Habituation to trailer may be beneficial in mood and energy stabilization in goats during long-distance transportation. Metanephrine concentrations may more accurately reflect stress levels in goats.

PSIII-A-1 Acute Stress Effects on Physiological Responses and Meat Quality Changes in Goats

Abstract Duration of stress prior to processing can significantly affect physiological status and meat quality in goats. This experiment was conducted to determine the effects of duration of preslaughter stress on physiological responses and meat quality in goats. In a Randomized Complete Block Design, fifty-four uncastrated male Spanish goats (8-mo old; BW 29.7 ± 2.03 kg) were randomly subjected to one of three treatments (n = 18 goats/treatment): (i) transported for 3 h, (ii) transported for 30 min, or (iii) or held in pens (control) on two different days. Blood samples were collected before and after transport for assessment of stress responses. Goats were slaughtered, using humane procedures, for meat quality analysis. The data were analyzed using MIXED procedures in SAS with treatment and day as fixed variables. Cortisol concentrations were higher (P &amp;lt; 0.01) in both 3 h (117.7 ± 7.96 ng/mL) and 30 min (130.1 ± 8.05 ng/mL) transported groups compared to the control group (27.5 ± 7.59 ng/mL). A similar treatment effect was noticed in plasma non-esterified fatty acid (P &amp;lt; 0.05) concentrations. Glucose concentrations were highest in 180-min, lowest in control, and intermediate in 30-min group (P &amp;lt; 0.01). There were significant positive correlations among muscle desmin concentration after 6 days of aging and 24 h pH (P &amp;lt; 0.05) and calpastatin activity (P &amp;lt; 0.05), suggesting that desmin degradation plays a role in determining the tenderness of aged meat from goats subjected to preslaughter stress. Warner-Bratzler shear force values of loin chops were highest in 180-min, lowest in control, and intermediate in 30-min groups; however, treatment did not influence the color values or cooking loss of loin chops. The results indicate that acute stress prior to processing can affect both physiological responses and meat quality in a duration-dependent manner in goats.

PSVIII-B-8 Effects of Habituation to Livestock Trailer and Extended Transportation on Plasma Metabolomic Profiles in Goats

Abstract Goats raised for meat production are often transported long distances. Twelve-month-old male Spanish goats were used to determine the effects of habituation to trailers on plasma metabolomic profiles when transported for long periods. In a split-plot design, 168 goats were separated into two treatment (TRT; whole plot) groups and maintained on two different paddocks. Concentrate supplement was fed to one group inside two livestock trailers (habituated group, H), while the other group received the same quantity of concentrate, but not inside the trailers (non-habituated, NH). Goats were subjected to a 10-hour transportation stress in 4 replicates (n = 21 goats/replicate/TRT) after 4 weeks of habituation period. Blood samples were collected prior to loading (Preload), 20 min after loading (0 h), and at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 h of transportation (Time; subplot). A targeted quantitative metabolomics approach was employed to analyze the samples using a combination of direct injection mass spectrometry with a reverse-phase LC–MS/MS custom assay. The data were analyzed using R software. Several amino acids (alanine, serine, glycine, histidine, glutamate, trans-hydroxyproline, asparagine, threonine, methylhistidine, ornithine, proline, leucine, tryptophan) were higher (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in the H group compared to the NH group. Five diacylphosphotidyl cholines, 10 lysophosphotidyl cholines, and several other sphingomyelins were higher (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in the NH group compared to the H group. Butyric acid, propionic acid, alpha-ketoglutaric acid, and beta-hydroxybutyric acid concentrations were lower (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in the NH goats compared to the H goats. In general, amino acid concentrations decreased and acylcarnitine levels increased with transportation time (P&amp;lt;0.05). Habituation to trailers can be beneficial in enhancing stress coping abilities in goats due to higher concentrations of metabolites that support energy homeostasis and antioxidant activities. Fatty acid metabolism may be the main energy pathway in goats during long-distance transportation.

Influence of Excitability Rate on Physiological Responses to Stress in Goats.

Simple SummaryIndividual differences in excitable temperament and its effects on physiological stress responses are not adequately studied in goats. This experiment was conducted to determine if the temperament of goats affects their physiological responses when exposed to stress. Intact male Spanish goats were rated for excitability based on a three-point scoring system with a higher score (excitability score, ES) representing a more excitable temperament. Goats were then subjected to one of three treatments (TRT) for 90 min: (i) isolated in an open pen with metal grill panels, (ii) isolated in a pen with side panels covered using tarp sheets, or (iii) maintained as controls with no isolation. Overall plasma cortisol concentrations were the highest in goats with ES 3. Goats with ES 1 had the lowest plasma glucose and non-esterified fatty acid concentrations. Neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio was also the highest in the ES 3 goats. There is evidence that calm goats had lower physiological stress responses compared to goats with excitable temperament.This study was conducted to determine if excitability score (ES) in goats can influence their physiological responses when subjected to stress. Thirty-six intact male Spanish goats (8-mo-old) were individually weighed and scored for excitability: 1 for calm (13 goats), 2 for moderately excitable (11 goats), and 3 for highly excitable (12 goats). To impose stress, goats were assigned to one of three treatments (TRT) for 90 min: (i) isolation in an open pen with metal grill panels, (ii) isolation in a pen with side panels covered using tarp sheets, and (iii) no isolation (control). Blood samples were collected at 0, 30, 60, and 90 min of isolation and physiological data were analyzed using MIXED procedures in SAS. The data from the two isolation treatments were pooled and compared with that of the control group. Plasma cortisol and non-esterified fatty acid concentrations were the lowest in goats with ES 1 (p < 0.05). Neutrophil–lymphocyte ratios were also the lowest in goats with a calm temperament (p < 0.01). Application of full quadratic model using response surface methodology (PROC RSREG) in SAS revealed that the influence of ES on physiological stress responses over time was not the same between the TRT groups. The results indicate that physiological stress responses are greater in goats with an excitable temperament compared to goats with a calm temperament.

Determining the efficacy of Red Cell® in combination with anthelmintics against gastrointestinal nematode parasitism in sheep and goats

Small ruminants are highly susceptible to infection with gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), particularly Haemonchus contortus, a blood-feeder that can cause severe anemia and death losses in untreated animals. Anecdotal evidence has suggested that short-term treatment of heavily infected animals with Red Cell®, a vitamin and mineral supplement, in combination with anthelmintic drugs may reduce morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of Red Cell® on GIN infection in small ruminants. Four experiments were conducted and comprised of a two-week trial using mixed-sex naturally parasitized hair sheep lambs or intact male Spanish goat kids housed on pasture. The treatments consisted of 30 mL Red Cell® with or without albendazole (Exp. 1, lambs), levamisole (Exp. 2, lambs and Exp. 3, goats), or moxidectin (Exp. 4, goats), the anthelmintic alone, or water only (control). Fecal and blood samples were collected from individual animals on Day 0, 7, and 14. Fecal egg counts and blood packed cell volume analyses were conducted. Overall, though anthelmintic treatments did influence FEC and PCV, there was no effect of Red Cell® treatment.

Spanish goats

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Evaluation of diazepam as a drug treatment for water hemlock (Cicuta species) poisoning in Spanish goats

Water hemlocks (Cicuta spp.) are toxic members of the Apiaceae plant family. The best drug treatment for the convulsions associated with acute water hemlock poisoning in livestock and humans has not been determined experimentally. This work compared the therapeutic actions of benzodiazepines (diazepam) and barbiturates (phenobarbital) on water hemlock poisoning in a goat model. C. maculata tubers were orally dosed to goats. Experimental groups consisted of; control saline; 20 mg/kg phenobarbital; 1.0 mg/kg diazepam; 10 mg/kg diazepam; and 1.0 mg/kg diazepam administered as needed to moderate convulsions by intravenous (i.v.) infusion. Diazepam provided nearly instant control of convulsions. Clinical signs of poisoning were completely controlled for the duration of the experiment in the goats that received the 10 mg/kg diazepam dose. These results suggest that diazepam is effective at managing the clinical signs of water hemlock poisoning in goats. We speculate that diazepam can be used as a potential treatment for water hemlock poisoning in other livestock species and humans.

Influence of the Use of Milk Replacers on Carcass Characteristics of Suckling Kids from Eight Spanish Goat Breeds.

Simple SummaryGoats are important species due to their contributions to the development of rural areas. Spain has one of the largest goat populations in Europe; however, literature on goat carcasses is very scarce and, therefore, it is crucial to study the specific productive potential of each breed. Previous studies by our team on other Spanish goat breeds have shown some interactions between breed and rearing systems and, consequently, further analysis is necessary. This paper aims to contribute to the general knowledge on the subject.Since goat milk has a higher value than kid meat in Europe, some farmers rear kids with milk replacers, although some studies have stated that kids raised on natural milk yield higher-quality carcasses. Our previous studies showed some interactions between breed and rearing system on carcass and meat quality. This study evaluated the influence of the use of milk replacers on several carcass characteristics of suckling kids from eight Spanish goat breeds (Florida, Cabra del Guadarrama, Majorera, Palmera, Payoya, Retinta, Tinerfeña, and Verata). A total of 246 kids fed milk replacer (MR) or natural milk (NM) were evaluated. Carcass, head, viscera, and kidney fat weights, as well as several carcass measurements (round perimeter, forelimb width, carcass length, forelimb length, and carcass compactness index), were registered. Forelimbs were dissected to study tissue composition. For all studied variables, interactions were found between rearing system and breed. In general, the MR rearing system increased the head and visceral weights, as well as the length measurements and muscle percentages. Conversely, the NM rearing system increased carcass compactness and resulted in higher fat contents, independent of the deposit. The choice of one or another rearing system should be made according to the needs of the target market.

PSXIV-18 Genetic improvement for resistance to gastrointestinal parasitism in growing meat goats and hair sheep through a centralized performance test in the southcentral USA

Abstract Progress from selecting meat goats and hair sheep from different farms in the southcentral United States for resistance to internal parasitism during three consecutive central performance tests was evaluated. Tests entailed 7–10 wk of data collection after artificial infection of growing males with Haemonchus contortus larvae. There were 44, 50, and 50 Boer, Kiko, and Spanish goats and 54, 55, 34, and 47 Dorper, Katahdin-farm-A, Katahdin-farm-B, and St. Croix sheep, respectively. In year 1, males were randomly selected and in years 2 and 3 were progeny of sires and females classified as highly and moderately resistant. Criteria for males was average daily gain and residual feed intake during the performance test and means of fecal egg count (FEC) and packed cell volume after artificial infection and for females was FEC and FAMACHA on-farm. There were interactions in FEC of breed×year (P &amp;lt; 0.001) for both species (1,046; 1,134; and 2,630 for Boer; 3,781; 1,239; and 1,216 for Kiko; 1,303; 1,357; and 1,464 for Spanish; 3,288; 1,956; and 1,315 for Dorper; 1,528; 1,759; and 2,241 for Katahdin-A, 2,414; 3,874; and 1,793 for Katahdin-B; and 1,371; 1,160; and 1,175 eggs/g for St. Croix in years 1, 2, and 3, respectively) and year×resistance group (RG; P = 0.005) for goats (1,359; 610, and 552 for high; 1,951; 1,268; and 1,440 for moderate; 2,821; 1,852; and 3,118 eggs/g for low RG in years 1, 2, and 3, respectively) but not for sheep (P = 0.639). In conclusion, resistance appeared greatest for Spanish and St. Croix within species and was increased by selection of Kiko and Dorper. For highly resistant goats, lower FEC in year 2 and 3 vs. 1, compared with no year differences for moderate and low RG, indicates selection progress, and the lack of similar differences for sheep may reflect their relatively greater resistance.

PSXII-30 Genetic and phenotypic correlations for growth and resistance to gastrointestinal parasitism in meat goats and hair sheep

Abstract Genetic and phenotypic correlations for growth and response to parasite infection traits were estimated for growing male meat goats and hair sheep from different farms in the southcentral United States during three consecutive central performance tests (CPT). Data were collected for 7–10 wk after artificial infection with Haemonchus contortus, which included average daily gain (ADG), fecal egg count (FEC), packed cell volume (PCV), and immunoglobin (Ig) levels. Animals evaluated were selected randomly in year 1 and in years 2 and 3 progeny of CPT sires classified as highly or moderately resistant and included 46, 50, and 51 Boer, Kiko, and Spanish goats and 59, 61, 34, and 46 Dorper, Katahdin-farm A, Katahdin-farm B, and St. Croix sheep, respectively. Females were classified accordingly on-farm based on FEC and FAMACHA. Pedigree records included 4 and 10 full-sibs and 97 and 149 half-sibs for goats and sheep, respectively. Variance components and correlations were estimated by AIREML using WOMBAT with a multivariate animal model. The additive genetic correlation between FEC and PCV was negative for goats (r=-041, P &amp;lt; 0.001) but positive for sheep (r=0.21, P = 0.004), whereas the phenotypic correlation between FEC and PCV was nonsignificant for goats but negative for sheep (r=-0.252, P &amp;lt; 0.001). The genetic correlation between FEC and IgA was positive (r=0.39, P &amp;lt; 0.001) for goats but nonsignificant (P = 0.439) for sheep, whereas those of FEC with IgM and IgG were both negative (r=-0.369 and -0.732 with IgM and r=-0.284 and -0.702 for goats and sheep, respectively; P &amp;lt; 0.001). Genetic and phenotypic correlations between ADG and FEC were nonsignificant for both species. In conclusion, different relationships of FEC and PCV between species require careful attention during selection and the lack of relationship between ADG and FEC suggests that selection of growing male meat goats and hair sheep for resistance to internal parasitism will not adversely affect growth performance.

High-Condensed Tannin Diet and Transportation Stress in Goats: Effects on Physiological Responses, Gut Microbial Counts and Meat Quality.

Simple SummaryPreslaughter management of goats can affect their welfare and productivity, as well as the resultant product quality. Inclusion of high-condensed tannin ingredients in the diet and minimizing stress can improve meat quality and safety in goats. This study was conducted to determine the effects of transportation stress and sericea lespedeza hay diet on physiological responses, gastrointestinal microbial populations, and meat quality in Spanish goats. Although transportation stress influenced physiological responses, it did not influence muscle pH, which is an important variable that affects the eating quality of meat. Sericea improved anti-inflammatory property and decreased microbial counts in the rumen and rectum of goats. There is evidence that feeding high-condensed tannin diet could be beneficial in meat goat production.Feeding condensed tannin (CT)-containing diets such as sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata) and reducing stress have been reported to improve meat quality and food safety in goats. In a completely randomized design with split-plot, thirty-six uncastrated male Spanish goats were assigned to 3 dietary treatments (n = 12/treatment): ground ‘Serala’ sericea lespedeza hay (SER), bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) hay (BG), or bermudagrass hay—dewormed goats (BG-DW; Control) at 75% of intake, with a corn-based supplementation (25%) for 8 weeks. Prior to slaughter, goats were either transported for 90 min to impose stress or held in pens. Basophil counts were lower (p < 0.01) in the SER group compared to BG or BG-DW groups suggesting a better anti-inflammatory capacity due to polyphenols in the SER diet. Compared to BG-DW group, cortisol level was higher (p < 0.05) and norepinephrine was lower (p < 0.05) in the SER group. The SER group had the lowest aerobic plate counts (APC) in both rumen and rectum (p < 0.01). Longissimus dorsi muscle initial pH was not affected by diet or stress. Feeding sericea hay to goats may have beneficial effects, such as enhanced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties during stress and reduced gut microbial counts, without changing meat quality characteristics.