Effect of transportation on the performance and carcass traits of halothane sensitive pigs
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Date
1997
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Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy
Abstract
A study to assess the effect of transportation on the performance
and carcass traits of halothane sensitive pigs was carried out. Twenty four
weaner piglets were selected after screening for halothane sensitivity. Twelve
piglets, six from halothane positive and six from halothane negative were
transported. The halothane negative pigs showed more aggressive behaviour
during transport, and the loss in body weight was significantly (P < 0.01)
higher for the halothane negative pigs. A transportation for 150 km (Five
hours) did not affect the further growth performance, average fortnightly gain
and feed conversion efficiency.
At 210 days of age the transported group was subjected to a
second transportation of 150 km and were slaughtered and carcass
characteristic were studied. Shrinkage was more for halothane negative
group.
The live weight at slaughter, carcass length dressing percentage,
loin eye area, backfat thickness and organ weights did not show any
significant difference. The meat pH was lower for halothane positive pigs and
transported group indicative of pale soft exudative (PSE) condition. The crude
fat content of liver and kidney did not differ between any of the groups.
Packed cell volume and blood pH did not vary between the
groups. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate was significantly (P < 0.05) higher for
transported halothane positive group. There was no significant difference in
serum lactate dehydrogenase content. But serum creatine phosphokinase
was higher for halothane positive pigs and the values increased on
transportation.
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PG
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Citation
171251