Abstract
Assessing sickness in animals, by which we refer to non-specific states involving both physical discomfort and negative emotional states, is a real challenge. In this review, we demonstrate the need for clear and simple indicators of sickness in horses, a species in which suffering is largely underestimated. We provide a critical review of existing tools available to assess sickness in equids, which include composite pain scales and scores and welfare assessment scoring. Many such scales and scoring systems involve subjective assessments and lack of clear definitions. We discuss possible objective, visible indicators (qualitative and quantitative behavioural modifications and some postures) associated with sickness in horses, highlighting the two predominant modalities of expression (becoming unresponsive to environmental stimuli and “lethargic”, or becoming aggressive and hostile). Much work is still needed before an agreement can be achieved on the indicators of sickness in horses; there are however signs that, even if non-specific, should attract the owners’ attention on the horses’ welfare states.
DOI
10.1016/j.applanim.2015.09.005
Publication Date
2016-02-01
Publication Title
Applied Animal Behaviour Science
Volume
175
Publisher
Elsevier BV
ISSN
0168-1591
Embargo Period
2024-11-22
First Page
41
Last Page
49
Recommended Citation
Hausberger, M., Fureix, C., & Lesimple, C. (2016) 'Detecting horses’ sickness: In search of visible signs', Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 175, pp. 41-49. Elsevier BV: Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2015.09.005
