Pathological findings in spontaneously dead and euthanized sows – a descriptive study

• DOI: 10.1186/s40813-019-0132-y
• Publication Date: 2019-11-20T00:05:41Z
• Authors: Eve Ala-Kurikka; Camilla Munsterhjelm; Paula Bergman; Taina Laine; Henna Pekkarinen; Olli Peltoniemi; Anna Valros; Mari Heinonen
• Keywords: Dental and periodontal disease; IMPACT; Lameness; Veterinary medicine; PATHOGENESIS; HERD; Post-mortem examination; SF1-1100; On-farm death; Veterinary science; SF600-1100; Mortality; FEMALE PIGS; OSTEOCHONDROSIS; 2. Zero hunger; LESIONS; Euthanasia; MORTALITY; Research; PERIODONTAL-DISEASE; 0402 animal and dairy science; 04 agricultural and veterinary sciences; Animal culture; PREGNANT SOWS; Sow; LAMENESS; Locomotor disorder; Degenerative joint disease

Abstract Background A high rate of euthanized and spontaneously dead sows causes production losses likely indicates underlying welfare problems. Identification predisposing factors to on-farm deaths requires a thorough understanding the causes. Post-mortem examination is needed for proper diagnosis. The aims this descriptive study were determine spontaneous euthanasia in convenience sample Finnish herds describe pathological findings locomotor system teeth gums. Results This described post-mortem 65 found or on 15 farms. All but one presented with two more findings. majority primary pathologic-anatomic diagnoses (PAD-1) inflammatory. most prevalent arthritis peritonitis (9% each). was body part commonly affected by lesions. Findings unassociated death present 85% animals, additionally 29% PAD-1 s concerned system. prevalence both degenerative joint disease tooth wear 71%. Farmers had noted clinical signs within 30 days every sow half ones. farmer’s impression cause agreed at least partly 44% cases. Conclusion Multiple pathologies norm animals. may indicate an extended course illness therefore also unnecessary delay medical treatment euthanasia. relevance common disorders, including wear, need be elucidated.