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Related Concept Videos

Cognitive Learning01:21

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Cognitive learning is based on purposive behavior, incidental learning, and insight learning.
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Assessing the motivation to learn in cattle.

Rebecca K Meagher1,2, Emma Strazhnik3, Marina A G von Keyserlingk3

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Holstein heifers show motivation for learning tasks, indicating cognitive challenges can enhance animal welfare. These learning opportunities, beyond just the task, appear to be rewarding for livestock.

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Area of Science:

  • Animal Welfare Science
  • Cognitive Ethology
  • Livestock Management

Background:

  • Cognitive challenges are recognized as enrichment for captive animals, improving welfare.
  • While primates and dolphins engage in learning tasks, research on livestock motivation is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the motivation of Holstein heifers to engage in learning opportunities.
  • To assess if cognitive tasks serve as a rewarding experience for livestock.

Main Methods:

  • A yoked design was used with 10 pairs of Holstein heifers.
  • Heifers were trained on an operant response (nose touch) and a discrimination learning task.
  • Control heifers received rewards without choice or task association.

Main Results:

  • Learning heifers approached the task initiation faster (p=0.024), suggesting higher motivation.
  • Learning heifers tended to perform more operant responses (p=0.08), indicating stronger engagement.
  • No significant difference was found in the frequency of voluntary participation between groups.

Conclusions:

  • Holstein heifers demonstrate motivation to participate in cognitive learning tasks.
  • Factors beyond the specific discrimination learning, such as environmental control, appear rewarding.
  • Cognitive challenges and environmental control opportunities can positively impact livestock welfare.