Stabling causes a significant increase in the pH of the equine airway.
Regulation of pH homeostasis in the equine lung is poorly understood. Measurement of exhaled breath condensate (EBC) pH provided a simple, highly repeatable and noninvasive method for the longitudinal investigation of changes in airway pH in response to environmental changes. Stabling of horses was found to lead to a small (approximately 100-200 parts/billion) but significant (P < 0.001) increase in ambient ammonia concentration when compared to pasture. This increase in exposure to ambient ammonia concentration was associated with significant (P = 0.002) increases in EBC pH and exhaled ammonia (P = 0.013). Stable feed/bedding management type had no effect on EBC pH or exhaled ammonia concentration, while ambient ammonia concentration was influenced by stable management type.
Whittaker
A G
AG
Weipers Centre for Equine Welfare, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK.
Love
S
S
Parkin
T D H
TD
Duz
M
M
Hughes
K J
KJ
D000641:Ammonia / Q000009:adverse effects; D000822:Animal Husbandry; D000818:Animals; D001944:Breath Tests / Q000379:methods; D006706:Homeostasis; D006736:Horses; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D012143:Respiratory Physiological Phenomena; D012137:Respiratory System / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000187:drug effects
D000641:Ammonia