The effect of method of tail docking on tail-biting behaviour and welfare of pigs.

摘要: The objective of this study was to explore the effects tail docking and biting on pig welfare through an assessment physiology behaviour. In experiment 1, piglets were either docked using hot cautery iron (CAUT), blunt trauma cutters (BT), or their tails left intact (CON). Blood samples taken from pigs at 3 7 weeks age measure C-reactive protein (CRP). Tail-biting lesions scored 3, 5, age. Behaviour recorded for 72 h when observed in 7-week old pigs. lesion scores similar among treatments 5 age, however greater CON compared with CAUT BT Bodyweights lower CRP elevated 2, a length 2 cm (Short) (Long). every until end finishing. Long Short Compromised tail-bitten indicated by severity lesion, level CRP, reduced bodyweights. More research is needed into understanding causative factors behind pigs, so that preventative measures can be adopted farms prevent