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Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders in Donkeys
Francisco J Mendoza1, Ramiro E Toribio2, Alejandro Perez-Ecija1
1Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Cordoba, Campus Rabanales, Road Madrid-Cadiz km 396, Cordoba 14014, Spain.
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Equine Practice
|October 8, 2019
Summary
Donkeys possess unique energy-efficient traits due to arid evolution, predisposing them to metabolic issues like obesity and insulin dysregulation. Species-specific diagnostic approaches are crucial for accurate treatment.
Area of Science:
- Comparative endocrinology
- Equine metabolic disease research
- Animal physiology
Background:
- Donkeys evolved unique energy-efficiency traits in harsh, arid environments.
- These traits predispose donkeys to metabolic diseases such as obesity, dyslipidemias, and insulin dysregulation.
- Conditions like pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction and endocrinopathic laminitis are also linked to these predispositions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the unique endocrine and metabolic disease profiles in donkeys.
- To emphasize the necessity of species-specific diagnostic approaches for donkeys.
- To prevent misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatments, and associated costs in equine veterinary medicine.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on donkey and horse endocrinology.
- Comparative analysis of hormone dynamics and diagnostic testing protocols.
- Identification of key physiological differences between donkeys and horses regarding metabolic health.
Main Results:
- Donkeys exhibit distinct hormone dynamics compared to horses.
- Standard diagnostic protocols used for horses may be inadequate or misleading for donkeys.
- Significant differences necessitate tailored approaches for diagnosing metabolic and endocrine disorders in donkeys.
Conclusions:
- A species-specific approach is essential for diagnosing and managing endocrine and metabolic diseases in donkeys.
- Recognizing donkey-specific physiological traits prevents misdiagnosis and ensures effective treatment.
- Implementing tailored protocols improves animal welfare and reduces veterinary costs.
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