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Cybulski P, Woźniak A, Larska M, Jabłoński A, Stadejek T. Gastric ulcers in finishing pigs: the evaluation of selected non-dietary risk factors and impact on production performance. Porcine Health Manag 2024; 10:11. [PMID: 38409105 PMCID: PMC10898001 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-024-00362-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The complex aetiology of gastric lesions in pigs remains largely unknown and effective preventive measures and pharmaceutical treatment of the disease have not been developed yet. Regardless of the fact that the overwhelming majority of previous research works dealing with gastric ulceration in pigs focused on the role of the nutritional determinants, including chemical composition of feeds, cereal type, finely ground pelleted diets, and feed additives, conclusions presented therein remain highly ambiguous. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of the disease on production performance, and investigate the influence of selected non-dietary risk factors on the prevalence of gastric alterations in finishing pigs reared under conditions of 11 modern farms located in Poland. RESULTS A total number of 26,043 finishing pigs was examined. 15,228 (58.47%) had gastric ulcers. Intact stomachs were detected in 6176 animals (23.71%). Parakeratosis and erosion were observed in 2551 (9.80%) and 2088 (8.02%), respectively. Among eight continuous variables two were found to be significantly associated with prevalence of the gastric ulcer: the growing number of animals in the herd, which was negatively correlated (P = 0.002; ρ = -0.37), and the growing average entry weight of animals transported to the finisher farm (P = 0.047; ρ = 0.24), which increased the risk of gastric ulcers prevalence. Among 12 nominal variables, problems with the quality of farm management (P = 0.041), and usage of straw as a bedding material (P = 0.002) were identified as determinants significantly associated with occurrence of the analysed health problem. CONCLUSIONS Among 20 non-nutritional variables analysed in our study only few factors were found to be associated with the prevalence of the disease. The impact of broadly understood management issues on gastric health in finishing pigs deserves further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Cybulski
- Goodvalley Agro S.A, Dworcowa 25, 77-320, Przechlewo, Poland.
| | - Aleksandra Woźniak
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences - SGGW, Nowoursynowska 159C, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Larska
- Department of Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Partyzantów 57, 24-100, Puławy, Poland
| | - Artur Jabłoński
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences - SGGW, Nowoursynowska 159C, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Stadejek
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences - SGGW, Nowoursynowska 159C, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland.
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2
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Opgenorth J, Mayorga EJ, Abeyta MA, Goetz BM, Rodriguez-Jimenez S, Freestone A, Stahl CH, Baumgard LH. Calcium trafficking and gastrointestinal physiology following an acute lipopolysaccharide challenge in pigs. J Anim Sci 2024; 102:skae073. [PMID: 38483214 PMCID: PMC11034434 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skae073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The influence of systemic immune activation on whole-body calcium (Ca) trafficking and gastrointestinal tract (GIT) physiology is not clear. Thus, the study objectives were to characterize the effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on Ca pools and GIT dynamics to increase understanding of immune-induced hypocalcemia, ileus, and stomach hemorrhaging. Twelve crossbred pigs [44 ± 3 kg body weight (BW)] were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 intramuscular treatments: (1) control (CON; 2 mL saline; n = 6) or (2) LPS (40 µg LPS/kg BW; n = 6). Pigs were housed in metabolism stalls to collect total urine and feces for 6 h after treatment administration, at which point they were euthanized, and various tissues, organs, fluids, and digesta were weighed, and analyzed for Ca content. Data were analyzed with the MIXED procedure in SAS 9.4. Rectal temperature and respiration rate increased in LPS relative to CON pigs (1.4 °C and 32%, respectively; P ≤ 0.05). Inflammatory biomarkers such as circulating alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total bilirubin increased in LPS compared with CON pigs whereas albumin decreased (P ≤ 0.02). Plasma glucose and urea nitrogen decreased and increased, respectively, after LPS (43% and 80%, respectively; P < 0.01). Pigs administered LPS had reduced circulating ionized calcium (iCa) compared to CON (15%; P < 0.01). Considering estimations of total blood volume, LPS caused an iCa deficit of 23 mg relative to CON (P < 0.01). Adipose tissue and urine from LPS pigs had reduced Ca compared to CON (39% and 77%, respectively; P ≤ 0.05). There did not appear to be increased Ca efflux into GIT contents and no detectable increases in other organ or tissue Ca concentrations were identified. Thus, while LPS caused hypocalcemia, we were unable to determine where circulating Ca was trafficked. LPS administration markedly altered GIT dynamics including stomach hemorrhaging, diarrhea (increased fecal output and moisture), and reduced small intestine and fecal pH (P ≤ 0.06). Taken together, changes in GIT physiology suggested dyshomeostasis and alimentary pathology. Future research is required to fully elucidate the etiology of immune activation-induced hypocalcemia and GIT pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Opgenorth
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Edith J Mayorga
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Megan A Abeyta
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Brady M Goetz
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | | | - Alyssa D Freestone
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Chad H Stahl
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Lance H Baumgard
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
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Peralvo-Vidal JM, Weber NR, Nielsen JP, Bache JK, Haugegaard S, Pedersen AØ. Feeding behavior in nursery pigs affected with gastric ulcers. Livest Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2021.104745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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4
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Dunlop H, Timmer J, McOrist S. Impact of gastric ulceration on weight gain in finisher pigs. Livest Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2021.104527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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5
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Vitali M, Nannoni E, Sardi L, Martelli G. Knowledge and Perspectives on the Welfare of Italian Heavy Pigs on Farms. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061690. [PMID: 34204037 PMCID: PMC8227195 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061690] [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: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Italian heavy pigs are characterized by much higher body weights and age at slaughter (approximately 160–170 kg, and over 9 months of age) than the majority of pigs reared in Europe. This results in peculiar behavioral and rearing-related needs compared to smaller pigs. However, there is a limited body of research dealing with the welfare of this productive category. The aim of this review is to collect the most significant available information on welfare issues of heavy pigs on farms and to highlight recent findings and areas needing additional research. It is hoped that these findings will, in the future, serve as a basis for the development of specific policies aimed at enhancing the ethical attributes of this renowned production. Abstract This review aims to give an overview of the most significant available information on welfare issues of Italian heavy pigs on farms. These animals, whose meat is used to produce typical products, are characterized by much higher body weights and age at slaughter (approximately 160–170 kg, and 9 months of age) than most pigs reared in Europe, resulting in peculiar behavioral and rearing-related needs. To highlight the main findings and the areas in which additional research is needed, the paper was organized by allocating the studies on the basis of the Welfare Quality four principles framework, i.e., good feeding, good housing, good health, and appropriate behavior. The results indicate the possibility of improvement with regard to the management of feeding, watering, and some environmental parameters (light, thermal comfort, enrichments) and a lack of knowledge on the actual space requirements (and a corresponding regulatory gap). Moreover, deficiencies concerning the prevalence of injuries and disease and the relationship between lesions observed post-mortem and rearing conditions needs to be addressed. Lastly, the absence of research concerning the evaluation of the emotional state of animals has been highlighted. It is hoped that these findings will, in the future, serve as a basis for the development of specific policies for these animals in order to increase the ethical value of the entire production chain, in accordance with consumers’ demand and expectation for high animal welfare standards.
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Sudden death associated with bleeding into digestive system of finishing pigs – a review. ACTA VET BRNO 2021. [DOI: 10.2754/avb202190010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Sudden deaths of finishing pigs in modern pig herds cause economic losses and therefore draw constant attention worldwide. In the case of peracute mortality associated with gastrointestinal bleeding, pigs usually die during a short period without clinical manifestations. Necropsy can detect bleeding into various parts of the digestive system. Determining the exact aetiology of the sudden death can be difficult in many cases. Diseases and conditions such as gastric ulcers, abdominal torsion, haemorrhagic bowel syndrome and infectious diseases should be taken into account in the differential diagnosis. Because some of these diseases still have an unclear aetiology and pathogenesis, the aim of our work was to provide a summary of existing knowledge as well as to describe related pathognomonic pathological changes.
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Helke KL, Meyerholz DK, Beck AP, Burrough ER, Derscheid RJ, Löhr C, McInnes EF, Scudamore CL, Brayton CF. Research Relevant Background Lesions and Conditions: Ferrets, Dogs, Swine, Sheep, and Goats. ILAR J 2021; 62:133-168. [PMID: 33712827 DOI: 10.1093/ilar/ilab005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal models provide a valuable tool and resource for biomedical researchers as they investigate biological processes, disease pathogenesis, novel therapies, and toxicologic studies. Interpretation of animal model data requires knowledge not only of the processes/diseases being studied but also awareness of spontaneous conditions and background lesions in the model that can influence or even confound the study results. Species, breed/stock, sex, age, anatomy, physiology, diseases (noninfectious and infectious), and neoplastic processes are model features that can impact the results as well as study interpretation. Here, we review these features in several common laboratory animal species, including ferret, dog (beagle), pig, sheep, and goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi L Helke
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - David K Meyerholz
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Amanda P Beck
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Eric R Burrough
- Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine Department, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Rachel J Derscheid
- Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine Department, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Christiane Löhr
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Elizabeth F McInnes
- Toxicologic Pathology, Toxicology Section, Human Safety at Syngenta, in Jealott's Hill, Bracknell, United Kingdom
| | - Cheryl L Scudamore
- ExePathology, Pathologist at ExePathology, Exmouth, Devon, United Kingdom
| | - Cory F Brayton
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Peralvo-Vidal JM, Weber NR, Nielsen JP, Denwood M, Haugegaard S, Pedersen AØ. Association between gastric content fluidity and pars oesophageal ulcers in nursery pigs: a cross-sectional study of high-risk Danish herds using commercial feed. Porcine Health Manag 2021; 7:19. [PMID: 33622395 PMCID: PMC7901203 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-021-00199-x] [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: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The objective of this cross-sectional study was to assess the within-herd prevalence of pars oesophageal ulcers (POU) in high-risk Danish herds using commercial diets. Furthermore, we aimed to estimate the association between gastric content fluidity and POU using a generalised additive model (GAM). The study included 200 clinically healthy nursery pigs randomly selected from ten farms (20 pigs from each farm). The 10 farms were selected based on a suspected high prevalence of gastric ulcers. Post-mortem gastric ulcer assessment was based on macroscopic lesions, and gastric content fluidity was assessed based on the solid particle sedimentation percentage (solid phase). Results We observed an overall prevalence of 35.5% for POU in nursery pigs. Within-herd prevalence varied considerably among farms, with values ranging from 0% in Farm 1 to 84% in Farm 4. Our model showed strong associations between POU and gastric content fluidity (P < 0.001), as well as between POU and farm of origin (P < 0.001). In addition, we observed that the risk of POU decreased non-linearly as the gastric content solid phase percentage increased, i.e. as the gastric content became more solid. Conclusion We have demonstrated that pars oesophageal ulcers are present in Danish herds with nursery pigs fed commercial diets. Furthermore, we have established that gastric content fluidity is strongly associated with POU in nursery pigs. Even so, we cannot conclude that gastric content fluidity is solely responsible for POU. Future research should look into the association between pars oesophageal ulcers and both farm management activities and individual pig factors. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40813-021-00199-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Miguel Peralvo-Vidal
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Section for Production, Nutrition and Health, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Nicolai Rosager Weber
- SEGES Danish Pig Research Centre, Danish Agriculture and Food Council, Axeltorv 3, 1609, Copenhagen V, Denmark
| | - Jens Peter Nielsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Section for Production, Nutrition and Health, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Matthew Denwood
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Section for Animal Welfare and Disease Control, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 8, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Svend Haugegaard
- Laboratory for Pig Diseases, SEGES Danish Pig Research Centre, Danish Agriculture and Food Council, Vinkelvej 13, 8620, Kjellerup, Denmark
| | - Anni Øyan Pedersen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Section for Production, Nutrition and Health, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
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Holinger M, Früh B, Stoll P, Kreuzer M, Hillmann E. Grass silage for growing-finishing pigs in addition to straw bedding: Effects on behaviour and gastric health. Livest Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2018.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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10
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Mushonga B, Yabaragiye B, Kandiwa E, Habarugira G, Samkange A. A 3-year prospective study of the incidence of gastric ulcers in pigs slaughtered at Base Abattoir in Rwanda. Vet World 2017; 10:873-879. [PMID: 28919676 PMCID: PMC5591472 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2017.873-879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Determination of the incidence of gastric ulcers in pigs slaughtered at Base Abattoir in Rwanda. MATERIALS AND METHODS Stomachs from all 5040 pigs that were slaughtered at Base Abattoir in Rwanda from August 2012 to August 2015 were examined for the presence and location of gastric ulcers. The results of the inspections were recorded and analyzed. Statistical analysis for Chi-square values was performed using the Software Package for Social Sciences version 16.0. The Z test for comparison of proportions was used and p<0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS Overall as well as per district, significantly more male pigs than female pigs were slaughtered (p<0.05). The incidence of gastric ulcers in slaughter pigs was 12.86%. The incidence of gastric ulcers in males (13.36%) was not significantly different (p>0.05) from that in female pigs (12.84%) in all three districts. A significantly greater proportion of these ulcers (69.03%) was located in the esophageal region than in the glandular region of the stomach (30.97%) in slaughtered males (p<0.05). A significantly greater proportion of these ulcers (79.59%) was located in the esophageal region than in the glandular region of the stomach (20.41%) in slaughtered females (p<0.05). The overall incidence of esophageal ulcers (9.44%) in the slaughtered pigs was significantly (p<0.05) higher than that of glandular region ulcers (3.41%). Pigs with carcass weight over 60 kg showed a significantly (p<0.05) higher (44.44%) incidence of ulcers than those between 40 and 60 kg (33.33%) and those below 40 kg (22.22%). CONCLUSIONS It was concluded that the incidence of gastric ulceration in slaughter pigs at Base Abattoir was not associated with source (district) or sex of pigs but was associated with the carcass weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borden Mushonga
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Namibia, P. Bag 13301, Pioneerspark, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Bernard Yabaragiye
- School of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Rwanda, P. O. Box 57 Nyagatare, Rwanda
| | - Erick Kandiwa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Namibia, P. Bag 13301, Pioneerspark, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Gervais Habarugira
- School of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Rwanda, P. O. Box 57 Nyagatare, Rwanda
| | - Alaster Samkange
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Namibia, P. Bag 13301, Pioneerspark, Windhoek, Namibia
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Jensen KH, Jørgensen L, Haugegaard S, Herskin MS, Jensen MB, Pedersen LJ, Canibe N. The dose-response relationship between the amount of straw provided on the floor and gastric ulceration of pars oesophagea in growing pigs. Res Vet Sci 2017; 112:66-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2017.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Abstract
Oesophago-gastric ulcers (OGU) are a production and welfare problem in pigs. Stomach condition was scored for 22 551 pigs in 228 batches over a 7-month period at an abattoir in Italy processing heavy pigs for ham production. Mild or severe ulceration was observed in 20.7% of pigs, of which 13% had scar tissue. Variation between batches was high (0% to 36% prevalence of severe ulcers) and showed a significant effect of farm of origin (P<0.001). Overnight lairage increased the prevalence of mild ulcers (P<0.001), but not severe or scarred ulcers. Scarred ulcers increased in the hottest summer months. Prevalence of ulcers showed only few and weak correlations at batch level with pathologies of the pleura, lungs and liver, but a strong correlation with on-farm mortality of the batch. Analysis of farm risk factors for OGU was assessed by questionnaire with a response rate of 17% of farms. Risk factors retained in a multivariable model included a protective effect of anthelmintic treatment (risk ratio (RR)=5.1, P=0.03), increased risk in farms using Mycoplasma vaccination (RR=5.6, P=0.04) and a tendency for association with type of flooring (P=0.06). Univariable analyses also highlighted possible influences of other stress-inducing factors including lack of enrichment objects and mixing of pigs during fattening, suggesting that the role of on-farm stressors merits further investigation. It is concluded that abattoir screening of OGU in future programmes for the assessment of well-being on farm should encompass only severe lesions and scarring, and results be returned to farmers to facilitate improvement of production and welfare.
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13
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Effects of sorghum particle size on milling characteristics and growth performance in finishing pigs. Anim Feed Sci Technol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2015.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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14
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Paulk CB, Hancock JD, Fahrenholz AC, Wilson JM, McKinney LJ, Benhke KC, Nietfeld JC. Effects of feeding cracked corn to nursery and finishing pigs. J Anim Sci 2015; 93:1710-20. [PMID: 26020193 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2014-8600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Four experiments were conducted to determine the effects of supplementing cracked corn in nursery and finishing pig diets (PIC TR4 × 1050). In Exp. 1, 144 pigs (7.5 kg BW) were used in a 28-d experiment with 6 pigs per pen and 6 pens per treatment. Treatments were corn-soybean meal based in the form of mash, pellets (PCD), and pellets with 100% of the corn ground (PGr; 618 mm) or cracked (PCr; 3444 mm) and blended into the diet after the rest of the formulation had been pelleted. For d 0 to 28, pigs fed mash had increased (P = 0.042) ADFI compared with those fed the PCD diet. Pigs fed PCD had increased (P < 0.05) ADG and G:F compared with pigs fed PGr and PCr. Pigs fed PCr had decreased (P = 0.004) G:F compared with those fed PGr. For Exp. 2, 224 nursery pigs (7.4 kg BW) were used in a 28-d study with 7 pigs per pen and 8 pens per treatment. Treatments were similar to Exp. 1, with 50% of the corn either ground (445 mm) or cracked (2142 mm). For d 0 to 28, pigs fed mash had greater (P < 0.05) ADFI and G:F than pigs fed the PCD diet. Pigs fed the PCD diet had decreased (P = 0.001) ADFI and increased (P = 0.001) G:F compared to those fed PGr and PCr. For Exp. 3, 208 pigs (62.6 kg BW) were used in a 63-d experiment with 13 pigs per pen and 4 pens per treatment. Treatments were corn-soybean meal based with 0, 10, 20, and 40% cracked corn (3549 µm). All treatments were fed in mash form. For d 0 to 63, increasing cracked corn tended to decrease (linear, P = 0.093) G:F and decreased (linear, P = 0.047) carcass yield. Adding up to 40% of cracked corn to a mash diet decreased (P < 0.05) scores for keratinization and ulcers. For Exp. 4, 252 finishing pigs (40 kg BW) were used with 7 pigs per pen and 9 pens per treatment. The treatments were the same as described in Exp. 2. For the 80-d experiment, pigs fed mash had decreased (P < 0.05) ADG, stomach keratinization, and ulcer scores and increased (P < 0.05) yield and loin depth compared with pigs fed the PCD diet. Pigs fed PCD had increased (P < 0.05) ADG and G:F and decreased (P = 0.026) loin depth compared with pigs fed PGr and PCr diets. Pigs fed PCr had increased (P = 0.023) ADG and decreased (P = 0.001) yield compared with pigs fed PGr. Pigs fed PCr had decreased (P < 0.05) stomach keratinization and ulcer scores compared with pigs fed the PCD and PGr diets. In conclusion, pigs fed PCD had the greatest G:F, and PGr and PCr treatments had negative effects on G:F of pigs. Scores for stomach lesions were lowest for pigs fed PCr.
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15
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Swaby H, Gregory NG. A note on the frequency of gastric ulcers detected during post-mortem examination at a pig abattoir. Meat Sci 2011; 90:269-71. [PMID: 21733635 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2011.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2011] [Revised: 06/04/2011] [Accepted: 06/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
There is growing interest in using findings from post-mortem meat inspection as indicators of on-farm and preslaughter animal welfare. This study considered whether oesophago-gastric ulcers might be a useful feature in pigs. The stomachs of 9827 finishing pigs from 60 farms were examined to provide an estimate of the frequency of oesophago-gastric ulcers in England. Stomachs were graded using a four-point scale ranging from normal, hyperkeratotic, eroded or ulcerated with or without stenosis. Over 79% of stomachs had either an oesophago-gastric ulcer or visible pre-ulcerative changes, including hyperkeratosis of the epithelium lining the pars oesophagea. The frequency of severe ulceration (Grade 3) was 6%, and mild ulcers (Grades 1 and 2) 73%. There was a significantly higher frequency of oesophago-gastric lesions in the groups of pigs that were held at the abattoir overnight, compared with those slaughtered on the day of arrival. This could have been due to the combined effect of overnight fasting plus stress in an unfamiliar environment. However, the exact fasting times of the animals were unknown and so it was not possible to provide a precise assessment of the effect of feed withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Swaby
- Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, United Kingdom
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17
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Pluske JR, Pethick DW, Hopwood DE, Hampson DJ. Nutritional influences on some major enteric bacterial diseases of pig. Nutr Res Rev 2009; 15:333-71. [PMID: 19087411 DOI: 10.1079/nrr200242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
There are several enteric bacterial diseases and conditions of pigs that require control to prevent overt disease, to reduce morbidity and mortality, and to improve the efficiency of production. Traditionally, veterinarians, feed manufacturers and producers have relied upon antibiotics and minerals (for example, ZnO, CuSO4) in diets for a large part of this control. However, recent trends, particularly in Europe, are to reduce antimicrobial use and seek alternative or replacement strategies for controlling enteric bacterial diseases. The majority of these strategies rely on 'nutrition', taken in its broadest sense, to reduce the susceptibility of pigs to these diseases. Evidence to date suggests that specific dietary interventions, for example feeding very highly-digestible diets based on cooked white rice, can reduce the proliferation of a number of specific enteric bacterial infections, such as post-weaning colibacillosis. No simple and universal way to reduce susceptibility to pathogens in the gastrointestinal tract has been identified, and the underlying basis for many of the reported positive effects of 'nutrition' on controlling enteric infections lacks robust, scientific understanding. This makes it difficult to recommend dietary guidelines to prevent or reduce enteric bacterial diseases. Furthermore, some diseases, such as porcine intestinal spirochaetosis caused by Brachyspira pilosicoli, are sometimes associated with other pathogens (co-infections). In such cases, each pathogen might have different nutrient requirements, ecological niches and patterns of metabolism for which a variety of dietary interventions are needed to ameliorate the disease. Greater understanding of how 'nutrition' influences gut epithelial biology and immunobiology, and their interactions with both commensal and pathogenic bacteria, holds promise as a means of tackling enteric disease without antimicrobial agents. In addition, it is important to consider the overall system (i.e. management, housing, welfare) of pig production in the context of controlling enteric bacterial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Pluske
- Division of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia.
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Bolhuis JE, Schouten WG, Schrama JW, Wiegant VM. Effects of rearing and housing environment on behaviour and performance of pigs with different coping characteristics. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2006.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Cole JT, Argenzio RA, Eisemann JH. Physiological responses in swine treated with water containing sodium bicarbonate as a prophylactic for gastric ulcers. J Anim Sci 2004; 82:2757-63. [PMID: 15446492 DOI: 10.2527/2004.8292757x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of gastric pH above 4.0 aids the prevention of bile acid-mediated ulcerative damage to the pars esophageal tissue in pigs. One means of doing so is the addition of buffering compounds, such as sodium bicarbonate, to the water supply; however, any potential physiological effect of buffer consumption has yet to be determined. Experiment 1 tested the acute effects of buffer addition to the water supply on systemic acid-base and electrolyte balance in swine (BW 40.7 +/- 3.0 kg). Consumption of water calculated to a 200 mOsm solution with sodium bicarbonate for 24 h increased (P < 0.05) blood Na+, HCO3(-), and pCO2, although these effects were all within physiologically tolerable levels. Urine pH and Na+ excretion increased (P < 0.001) following the consumption of NaHCO3, with Na+ concentration almost threefold higher in treated pigs compared with controls. Experiment 2 determined the chronic systemic effects of buffer consumption by measuring blood and urine variables, with pigs consuming NaHCO3-treated water throughout. Water consumption increased (P < 0.001) during buffer consumption, although intake levels remained within normal ranges. Blood pH levels were not affected by long-term consumption of dietary buffer; however, blood HCO3(-) (P < 0.05), Na+, and pCO2 (P < 0.01) increased. Urine pH and urine Na+ concentration increased (P < 0.01) in buffer-treated compared with control animals. Results indicate that sodium bicarbonate can safely be added to the water supply for pigs, with no clinically relevant alterations in acid-base balance because the animals readily compensate for buffer intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- J T Cole
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh 27695, USA
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Cole JT, Gookin JL, Gayle JM, Eisemann JH, Argenzio RA, Blikslager AT. Endoscopy via a gastric cannula to monitor the development of ulcers in the pars esophagea in pigs after consumption of a finely ground feed combined with a period of withholding of feed. Am J Vet Res 2002; 63:1076-82. [PMID: 12171157 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.2002.63.1076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop an endoscopic technique for use in monitoring devlopment of gastric ulcers via a gastric cannula during withholding of feed and administration of a finely ground diet to pigs. ANIMALS 6 pigs weighing between 60 and 70 kg. PROCEDURE A gastric cannula was surgically inserted adjacent to the pars esophagea in each pig. Pigs were fed a finely ground diet for two 7-day periods that were separated by a 48-hour period during which feed was withheld. Endoscopic examination via the gastric cannula was used to monitor development of ulcers in the pars esophageal region of the pigs during the 48-hour period of feed withhold and subsequent 7-day feeding period. An ulcer score was assigned during each endoscopic examination. A final examination was performed during necropsy and compared with results for the final endoscopic examination. RESULTS Consumption of a finely ground diet for 7 days resulted in progressive erosive damage to the pars esophageal region of the stomach. Further significant increases in ulcerative damage were detected after 24 and 48 hours of withholding of feed. Final examination during necropsy did not reveal significant differences from results obtained during the final endoscopic examination. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Endoscopic examination via a gastric cannula was an effective means of monitoring ulcer development in the pars esophagea of pigs. Feeding a finely ground diet and withholding of feed induced endoscopically observable ulcers in the stratified squamous epithelial region of the stomach. Direct visual examination during necropsy confirmed the accuracy of endoscopic examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey T Cole
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, North Carolina State University, Raleigh 27606, USA
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Robertson ID, Accioly JM, Moore KM, Driesen SJ, Pethick DW, Hampson DJ. Risk factors for gastric ulcers in Australian pigs at slaughter. Prev Vet Med 2002; 53:293-303. [PMID: 11937236 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-5877(01)00286-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The stomachs of pigs (n=15,741) originating from 136 herds from the Australian states of Queensland, Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales were examined at slaughter for the presence of oesophago-gastric ulcers (OGUs). Stomachs were categorised as being normal, hyperkeratotic, eroded, ulcerated, or having strictures. A questionnaire was distributed to piggery owners to identify factors associated with an above-average herd prevalence of OGU. Thirty percent of all pigs examined had OGU (median within-herd prevalence of 17%). The median within-herd prevalence in Victoria (53%) was significantly higher than in Western Australia (30%) or Queensland (7%). The prevalence of OGU in culled breeding animals was significantly higher than in porkers or baconers from the same herds. There was no difference between the prevalence of OGU in male and female pigs sampled from the same Western Australian herds. The relationship between OGU and herd and pig risk factors was assessed by random effects logistic-regression analysis. Herds with a high prevalence of OGU were more likely to feed ad libitum (OR=13.7), use automated feeding systems (OR=7.8), feed a pelleted ration (OR=384) and get water from a dam rather than from a bore or river (OR=3.8). Furthermore, for every change in the ration formulation for finisher pigs, the risk of OGU increased 1.5 times.
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Affiliation(s)
- I D Robertson
- Division of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Perth, Australia.
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Eisemann JH, Morrow WEM, See MT, Davies PR, Zering K. Effect of feed withdrawal prior to slaughter on prevalence of gastric ulcers in pigs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002; 220:503-6. [PMID: 11862983 DOI: 10.2460/javma.2002.220.503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether withdrawing feed from pigs prior to slaughter had any effects on prevalence or severity of gastric ulcers. DESIGN Split-plot design. ANIMALS 873 pigs. PROCEDURES At the finishing barn, pigs were assigned to 30 pens. Feed withdrawal times (0, 12, or 24 hours) were assigned to pens at random, and pigs in each pen were marketed in 3 groups over a period of 4 weeks. The first marketing group consisted of the 10 heaviest pigs in each pen, the second consisted of the next 10 heaviest, and the third consisted of all remaining pigs. Feed was withheld from all pigs in each pen prior to removal of each marketing group. Thus, feed was withheld once, twice, or 3 times for pigs in the first, second, and third marketing groups, respectively. RESULTS Feed withdrawal time was not significantly associated with ulcer score at the time of slaughter. Ulcer scores and prevalence of chronic damage were higher in the third marketing group, regardless of feed withdrawal time. Prevalence of severe damage, prevalence of chronic damage, and prevalence of esophageal constriction increased as carcass weight decreased. No pigs died of gastric ulceration. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggest that withdrawal of feed from pigs prior to slaughter does not increase damage to the stomach and that repeated feed withdrawal does not result in fatal gastric ulceration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan H Eisemann
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh 27695-7621, USA
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Abstract
Ulceration of the pars esophagea in swine develops from a complex interaction of dietary particle size, gastric fluidity, dietary carbohydrate content, and presence of certain species of commensal gastric organisms capable of fermenting dietary carbohydrates. Unlike in humans, the significance of the role of Helicobacter sp. in development of porcine gastric ulcers is yet undefined. Management practices that limit the incidence and severity of gastric ulceration without interfering with growth performance appear to be the best option for control.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Doster
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, USA
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