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Abomasal ulcers in slaughtered cattle in Austria
Alexandra Hund1, Theresa Beer, Thomas Wittek
1Alexandra Hund, Universitätsklinik für Wiederkäuer, Veterinärmedizinische Universität Wien, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Wien, Österreich,
Summary
Over half of Austrian cattle examined had minor abomasal ulcers, suggesting cattle management practices may contribute. Faecal occult blood tests were ineffective for diagnosis in this preliminary study.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Animal Health
Background:
- Abomasal ulcers are a concern in cattle health.
- Previous research on abomasal ulcer prevalence and contributing factors in Austria is limited.
- Understanding the etiology is crucial for improving herd management and animal welfare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of abomasal ulcers in Austrian cattle.
- To investigate potential management-related factors associated with abomasal ulcer formation.
- To evaluate the efficacy of faecal occult blood tests for diagnosing abomasal ulcers.
Main Methods:
- Post-slaughter examination of 91 calves, 33 cows, and 91 bulls for abomasal ulcers.
- Measurement of abomasal content pH and faecal occult blood testing.
- Voluntary owner questionnaires on health, management, and feeding practices.
Main Results:
- Over 50% of examined cattle presented with abomasal ulcers, predominantly minor lesions.
- Median abomasal pH levels were 3.0 (calves), 3.6 (bulls), and 3.9 (cows).
- Faecal occult blood tests were unsuitable for detecting these ulcers; questionnaire data yielded no clear causative factors.
Conclusions:
- Austrian cattle management systems likely contribute to the development of low-grade abomasal ulcers.
- Further research is needed due to the lack of a suitable in vivo model and unclear influencing factors.
- Prospective trials are recommended to validate these preliminary findings and explore economic/welfare impacts.
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