The aim was to clarify effects of ad libitum and restricted feeding with Ca:P ratios on foot welfare in blue foxes. Experiment was started at weaning on August 6 th and finished at pelting on November 26 th , 2013. Treatments were: 1) restricted feeding, Ca:P ratio 1.5:1; 2) restricted feeding, Ca:P ratio 2.9:1; 3) restricted feeding Ca:P ratio control level; 4) ad libitum feeding, Ca:P ratio 1.5:1; 5) ad libitum feeding, Ca:P-ratio 2.9:1; 6) ad libitum feeding Ca:P ratio control level. Body growth variables, feed intake and welfare variables were measured. The behaviour was video recorded. Foreleg carpal joint angle as an indicator of leg weakness and the fox's ability to move were evaluated. During weeks 32-35 and 37-47 animals from restricted groups ate 60%-65% and 67%-68% of the given feed, respectively. Body weight gain was faster in foxes fed ad libitum than with a restricted diet (P < 0.001). At pelting, waistline and neck circumference were significantly (P < 0.001) larger in ad libitum groups compared to restricted ones. The body condition score was significantly (P < 0.001) larger for ad libitum animals. Body length was greater for ad libitum than for restricted groups (P < 0.05). Significant differences were not found in body size variables between Ca:P ratios. During the course of experiment, bending of carpal joints increased in each group (P < 0.001). Most bended joints were found at final scoring. Significant differences were noted in the angle of joint between ad libitum and restricted groups (P < 0.05). Pronounced difficulties in locomotor activity were not found. Differences between the groups were slight in stick, floorball and capture tests. No pain reaction was evident during sensitivity test. Foot welfare problems were multi-factorial problems.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
hi@scite.ai
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.