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Degenerative joint disease in captive waterfowl
L A Degernes1, P S Lynch, H L Shivaprasad
1College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA. laurel_degernes@ncsu.edu
Avian Pathology : Journal of the W.V.P.A
|February 19, 2011
Summary
Degenerative joint disease (DJD) affected nearly half of captive waterfowl at a zoo, with no link to age or sex. Exhibit environment, specifically rough surfaces, may increase DJD risk.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Zoological Medicine
- Avian Health
Background:
- Degenerative joint disease (DJD) is a concern in captive animals.
- Limited data exists on DJD prevalence and risk factors in captive waterfowl.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the prevalence of DJD in captive waterfowl at a zoological collection.
- To identify potential risk factors associated with DJD in this population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of waterfowl mortality/euthanasia cases (2001-2005).
- Gross, histologic, and radiographic examination of stifle, hock, and toe joints.
- Analysis of age, sex, and housing exhibit as potential risk factors.
Main Results:
- 48% (16/33) of waterfowl exhibited DJD in appendicular joints.
- DJD was not observed in wing joints; no infectious agents were isolated.
- Waterfowl in the Rainforest exhibit had higher DJD rates than those in the duck pond exhibit.
- Age and sex were not significantly associated with DJD presence.
Conclusions:
- Captive waterfowl are susceptible to DJD, particularly in lower limb joints.
- Exhibit flooring, such as rough concrete, may be a contributing environmental risk factor for DJD.
- Further research with larger sample sizes across multiple institutions is needed to confirm risk factors.
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