Large Animal Review

The Tier 2 predictive model is useful for estimating enteric methane emissions from dairy cattle at farm level in Spain

2024-10-09T16:39:41+02:00

Globally, animal agriculture is a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Various institutions such as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), estimate that livestock accounts for 17% of global anthropogenic GHG emissions. In Spain, livestock farming, including enteric methane production, accounted for 9.1% of total greenhouse gas emissions in 2020. There are strategies to reduce their impact, such as improving the feeding and management of ruminants. When estimating GHGs, there are many methods to choose from, each aimed at getting accurate and precise results for the emissions of each livestock breeding. These methods improved over time, moving towards more advanced approaches. The selection of the methodology falls into two types: 1) methods based on observed emissions data; and 2) methods based on calculation procedures that include emission factors (EF). Indirect methods are the most suitable for measuring enteric methane emissions under on-farm conditions and with large numbers of animals. In this context and from a clinical point of view, the predictive equations developed by the International Panel of Climate Change (IPCC) in its various updates are emerging. The IPCC guidelines highlight the use of the Tier 2 approach focusing on the methane conversion factor (Ym, %) and gross energy (GE) of the ration for the calculation. There is a lack of studies on this subject in Spain, however, investigations using this view have been carried out in many countries. Consequently, it is not possible to determine how much enteric methane is produced by cattle and what possible corrective measures are adequate, according to the particularities of the Spanish agricultural sector.

This review aims to help veterinarians working on livestock farms assess enteric methane emissions, in close collaboration with nutritionists based on data provided by the IPCC. Only then will it be possible to identify the positive and negative aspects of each farm and look for nutritional options to reduce emissions without compromising farm productivity, while addressing environmental concerns.

Evaluation of mastitis risk through tank milk somatic cell count by the classification tree method in farms reared Brown Swiss breed cattle

2024-10-09T16:39:42+02:00

Mastitis is a serious disease that causes significant economic losses in dairy farming, negatively affecting milk yield and quality. This disease not only threatens the health of dairy cows but also reduces the economic efficiency of farms. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of various factors on tank milk somatic cell count (TMSCC) and assess the associated mastitis risk. The research was designed to encompass a total of 170 farms, from which 680 tank milk (TM) samples were collected. The Classification Tree (CT) method was used to examine how factors such as season, milking type, and breeding conditions categorized by districts affected mastitis risk. Additionally, the effects of variables like barn type and udder cleaning practices on TMSCC were evaluated. One notable finding of the study was the statistically significant effect of seasonal variations on the TMSCC value. The season in which the milk samples were collected played an important role in determining the somatic cell count. The research results indicated that factors such as season, milking type, and breeding conditions had a significant impact on mastitis risk. However, certain variables, such as barn type and udder cleaning practices, were found to have no significant effects in this context. Additionally, analyses were conducted to compare the quantitative differences in factors that did not demonstrate statistically significant effects on TMSCC. The study reported an arithmetic mean of 228,997 cells/mL and a geometric mean of 107,094 cells/mL for TMSCC. These values were found to be compliant with the upper limits set by the European Union (EU) and Turkish Food Codex for somatic cell counts in milk. Therefore, from the standpoint of public health, the consumption of milk and dairy products originating from these farms was deemed safe and unlikely to pose any issues. The findings of this study suggest that efforts should be increased to reduce the somatic cell count values in milk produced in the region to below 100,000 cells/mL. This proactive measure would further enhance the safety and quality of dairy products, benefiting both consumers and producers in the long run. Future research and interventions should develop strategies to achieve these goals.

Investigating the effects of fish oil supplementation as an omega-3 fatty acid source during late gestation: milk yield and composition of does and growth performance of their offspring

2024-10-09T16:39:43+02:00

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of fish oil as an Omega-3 source during late pregnancy of does on pregnancy and lactation performance, as well as on the growth performance of kids. Thirty German Fawn x Hair crossbreed does were used. On the 76th day of pregnancy, the does were separated into two groups and fed a total mixed ration (TMR) including 2.8% (as-fed) fish oil (n = 17) or protected fat (n = 13) until kidding. The does and kids were subjected to a standard feeding regimen between kidding and 60 days of lactation. Feed intake was monitored on a weekly basis. Milk production was recorded every two weeks, with samples analyzed for total solids, fat, protein, casein, lactose, and urea levels. Additionally, the feed intake and individual body weights of the kids were measured biweekly. The use of fish oil in the diet during the last period of pregnancy did not affect live weight except on the 128th day of pregnancy. Similarly, the duration of pregnancy, milk yield, and milk composition were not affected by fish oil. However, feed intake increased during pregnancy, while it caused a decline during the lactation period. The kids born to does fed with fish oil TMRs consumed less feed. In conclusion, the use of 2.8% fish oil in the rations of does in late pregnancy did not affect the live weight of the dam and offspring. Fish oil increased feed intake during pregnancy. In lactation, feed intake decreased in dams and kids of dams receiving fish oil during pregnancy. The length of pregnancy and the protein and casein levels in the milk may also be influenced by the type of delivery. These findings suggest that while fish oil supplementation can alter feed intake patterns, it does not adversely affect key performance metrics such as live weight and milk production. Further research could explore the underlying mechanisms and long-term effects of fish oil supplementation in the diets of pregnant does.

Indagine sulla proprietà responsabile di equini sportivi in Italia /  A survey of responsible sport horses ownership in Italy

2024-10-09T16:39:43+02:00

Horse management involves multiple factors that directly or indirectly affect the animal’s health and well-being. This study investigates the management practices of sport horses in Italy, with particular focus on the awareness and responsibilities of horse owners and facility managers. A national survey was conducted using an online questionnaire developed by the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise, in collaboration with other key partners including the Ministry of Health Office2, FISE, IZSLT, IZSLER. The questionnaire was designed to cover various thematic areas, including the socio-demographic profiles of the respondents, logistical arrangements within horse facilities, familiarity with relevant legislation, knowledge of health practices, and the concept of responsible ownership, including the management of horses after their competitive careers. The survey aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of management of sport horses in Italy. Participants from different backgrounds contributed to the study anonymously, allowing for 855 responses to be obtained. The comprehensive structure of the questionnaire enabled a detailed examination of both the facilities where horses are kept and the practices used by those responsible for their care. One of the main objectives of the study was to obtain information about the level of knowledge and understanding that horse owners and facility managers have regarding the best management practices for horses. The purpose of this article is to report on the most significant data obtained.
However, despite the good number of replies, some disciplines and sectors were not statistically well represented. It is hoped that the shortcomings identified by this survey, such as the lack of statistically significant coverage in some areas, will be addressed with subsequent surveys using different dissemination methodologies.
In conclusion, the study indicates the level of awareness expressed by respondents and provides information on thematic areas that could benefit from further in-depth studies in the future, or suggest thematic areas that require continuing training and information dissemination to ensure that all individuals involved in the management of sport horses are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills.

A case of Bovine Erythropoietic Protorphyria in a female limousin calf

2024-10-09T16:39:42+02:00

Bovine erythropoietic protoporphyria (BCEPP) is a rare genetic disorder predominantly affecting Limousin and, sporadically, Blonde Aquitaine cattle. It arises from diminished or absent ferrochelatase activity, causing the toxic buildup of protoporphyrin in tissues. This accumulation leads to photosensitivity and seizures upon exposure to sunlight.

Here, we report a case of a female Limousin calf exhibiting BCEPP signs, including photosensitivity, skin lesions, ataxia, and seizure. Clinical examination and ancillary tests ruled out photosensitivity related to direct ingestion or hepatogenous toxics. Photosensitivity due to aberrant porphyrin accumulation, specifically BCEPP and Congenital Erythropoietic Porphyria (CEP), emerged as the primary differential diagnoses. Notably, the absence of characteristic signs such as "pink tooth" and anaemia, which are indicative of CEP, distinguished BCEPP. A homozygous autosomal recessive mutation in the ferrochelatase gene (FECH) confirmed the BCEPP diagnosis by genetic testing. The animal's welfare led to euthanasia and subsequent farm control strategies aimed at preventing further genetic transmission. To eliminate the chance of transmitting the genetic mutation, the decision was made to switch to a pure Aberdeen Angus bull. In conclusion, this case emphasises the significance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach. The farm history, clinical examination, and ancillary testing helped to narrow down other differential diagnoses further. The distinction between BCEPP and CEP rested on observable clinical indicators and breed specificity. The targeted genetic testing confirmed BCEPP paving the way for the correct herd health approach.

Bilateral hydronephrosis during pregnancy in a Korean native cow

2024-10-09T16:39:42+02:00

Hydronephrosis in cattle refers to the dilatation of the renal calices and is congenital in nature or acquired by urinary obstruction. It has been a major cause of hydronephrosis due to obstruction of the upper urinary tract by urolithiasis or neoplasm, especially in adult cattle. A 43-month-old Hanwoo cow at 4 months gestation was admitted for anorexia, depression, and urine dribbling. Rectal ultrasonography revealed a large pregnant uterus, absent urinary bladder, and dilated calices observed in the caudal pole of the left kidney. Percutaneous ultrasonographic images showed dilated calices in the right kidney. The serum biochemical profile showed azotemia (blood urea nitrogen, 90.11 mg/dL; creatinine, 7.28 mg/dL). Blood gas analysis indicated electrolyte abnormalities, including hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, hypochloremia, and hyperphosphatemia. Urinalysis showed a urine specific gravity of 1.020, pH of 7.5, leukocyte count of 70 cells/mL, nitrates negative, and protein negative. White blood cells or struvite crystals were not detected on the urine sediment microscopy. To detect Histophilus somni, Escherichia coli, and Corynebacterium renale, polymerase chain reaction was performed. The alpha-hemolysin gene of uropathogenic E. coli was detected in the left kidney and urinary bladder. The left kidney measured 20 ´ 10 cm and was filled with urine, whereas the urinary bladder was small, and the bladder wall was not thickened. No characteristic histopathological findings were noted in the bladder and kidney; however, macrophages were present. Therefore, the cow was diagnosed with bilateral hydronephrosis due to urinary tract obstruction by the pregnant uterus. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of hydronephrosis caused by a pregnant uterus in cattle. It was also the first report that severe azotemia and electrolyte abnormalities could be caused by hydronephrosis induced by a pregnant uterus in cattle. This provides the veterinarian with a new differential diagnosis for hydronephrosis in pregnant cows.

Large Animal Review

The Tier 2 predictive model is useful for estimating enteric methane emissions from dairy cattle at farm level in Spain

Evaluation of mastitis risk through tank milk somatic cell count by the classification tree method in farms reared Brown Swiss breed cattle

Investigating the effects of fish oil supplementation as an omega-3 fatty acid source during late gestation: milk yield and composition of does and growth performance of their offspring

Indagine sulla proprietà responsabile di equini sportivi in Italia / A survey of responsible sport horses ownership in Italy

A case of Bovine Erythropoietic Protorphyria in a female limousin calf

Bilateral hydronephrosis during pregnancy in a Korean native cow

Indagine sulla proprietà responsabile di equini sportivi in Italia /  A survey of responsible sport horses ownership in Italy