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Molar malocclusions in pine voles (Microtus pinetorum).
Stephen B Harvey1, Leanne C Alworth, Uriel Blas-Machado
1Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia; University Research Animal Resources, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia. sbharvey@uga.edu
Summary
Molar malocclusions in pine voles (Microtus pinetorum) caused mastication difficulties and poor body condition. Adding hardwood sticks as an enrichment tool successfully resolved this colony health issue.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Zoology
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Pine voles (Microtus pinetorum) are used in behavioral endocrinology studies.
- This species has aradicular hypsodont molars, meaning they grow continuously.
- Molar malocclusions can significantly impact an animal's health and welfare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe cases of molar malocclusion in a colony of pine voles.
- To investigate the cause and consequences of these dental abnormalities.
- To identify an effective intervention to prevent recurrence.
Main Methods:
- Observation of five adult pine voles exhibiting signs of poor body condition.
- Postmortem examination of oral cavities to assess molar morphology and wear.
- Implementation of an environmental enrichment strategy.
Main Results:
- Five cases of molar malocclusion were identified, characterized by elongated mandibular and maxillary molars with abnormal occlusal wear.
- The malocclusions led to apparent difficulty in mastication and poor body condition, necessitating euthanasia in affected individuals.
- The addition of autoclaved hardwood sticks to cages was implemented as an enrichment tool.
Conclusions:
- Molar malocclusion is a significant health concern in captive pine voles, impacting their ability to masticate and maintain body condition.
- Environmental enrichment, specifically providing hardwood sticks, effectively addressed and prevented this dental health problem in the colony.
- This intervention highlights the importance of appropriate environmental enrichment for maintaining the health of small rodent models in research settings.
