Quantification of stress sensitive markers in single fecal samples do not accurately predict excretion of these in the pig.
All feces produced during 24 h were collected from five pigs and cortisol and immunoreactive cortisol metabolites (CICM), and IgA were quantified. Within pigs, the concentrations of CICM and IgA varied extensively between random samples obtained from a single fecal dropping, and deviated in most cases significantly from the true concentration measured in total fecal output (CV 6.7-130%). The CICM and IgA contents varied considerably (CV 8.1-114%) within and between individual fecal droppings from the same pig compared to the total fecal excretion. In conclusion, single random samples could not be used to reliably quantify the total fecal concentration or excretion of CICM or IgA in pigs. Analyses of all feces collected during shorter periods than 24 h did not provide an accurate estimate of the daily excretion of CICM. Thus, the concentration of stress sensitive molecules in random single fecal samples as an indicator of animal welfare should be interpreted with prudence.
Carlsson
Hans-Erik
HE
Department of Neuroscience, Division of Comparative Medicine, Uppsala University, BMC Box 572, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden. hans-erik.carlsson@neuro.uu.se
Lyberg
Karin
K
Royo
Felix
F
Hau
Jann
J
D000818:Animals; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis / Q000378:metabolism; D005243:Feces / Q000737:chemistry*; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000032:analysis* / Q000378:metabolism*; D007070:Immunoglobulin A / Q000032:analysis*; D008297:Male; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D013047:Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms; D013312:Stress, Physiological / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013552:Swine; D013997:Time Factors
D015415:Biomarkers; D007070:Immunoglobulin A; D006854:Hydrocortisone