Comfort

Question 1

what is the second freedom

Answer 1

-freedom from discomfort- by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and comfortable resting area

Question 2

how can we assess the animal’s comfort

Answer 2

-‘ask’ the animal ie. preference test animals can vote with their feet or operant conditioning learn a task ‘what will they work for?’

Question 3

what are some things to consider when making a preference test

Answer 3

-cognition: can they differentiate
-welfare: what do they want
-assumption- we assume animals will make choices that result in better welfare
-choices will increase comfort, contentment, or reduce suffering
-but will they result in better health or greater productivity
-and what is practical/what is the cost

Question 4

what can a preference test be used to determine

Answer 4

flooring, housing, space, feeds, flavours, temprature, etc

Question 5

real preference tests

Answer 5

-early preference tests were too simple
-preference vary with conditions
-therefore: consider multiple factors/perform multiple studies (eg seasonal differences)
-consider the previous experience of the subject (prefer what is familiar)

Question 6

weak or strong preferences

Answer 6

-if weak is it still important? maybe?
-how do we determine the strength of a preference
-test willingness to pay
-using operant test (trained button/lever) or physical effort (push gate)

Question 7

in conclusion to determine animal preferences we must:

Answer 7

-ask appropriate questions (stocking D, temp, etc)
-match tests to animals behavioural and cognitive abilities
-include physiological and performance measures
-consider practical aspects