Pain and Injury Flashcards
What is the definition of pain?
An unpleasant sensory or emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage
Pain is often assessed through subjective self-report in humans but is more challenging in animals.
Define nociception.
The neural mechanisms that result in pain
Nociception can be observed and is described from a third-person perspective.
What are the four processes of nociception?
- Reception
- Transmission
- Perception
- Response
What types of pain are identified?
- Deep pain
- Visceral pain
- Cutaneous pain
- Acute pain
- Chronic pain
How is pain assessed in animals?
Through behavioral measures, response to analgesics, and physiological measurements
‘Sickness behaviour’ is a term used to describe chronic pain responses.
What is the role of anaesthesia?
Loss of sensation/feeling
Anaesthesia can be local (specific area) or general (induction/excitement).
What are the types of analgesics?
- Opioids
- NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
What painful procedures are commonly performed on cattle?
- Dehorning
- Castration
- Branding
- Tail-docking
What is the main reason for castration in pigs?
To prevent boar taint, an unpleasant smell and taste in the meat
Boar taint is due to elevated skatole and androstenone levels.
What are the methods for disbudding calves?
- Electrical or butane iron
- Caustic paste
- Gouging
What is the Beef Code requirement for dehorning?
Use of pain control is required after horn bud attachment
Competent personnel must perform the procedure.
What are the signs of lameness in animals?
- Gait scoring
- Observer ranking
- Accelerometers
- Kinematics
- Force plate measurements
What is the significance of lameness in poultry?
A major welfare issue that can lead to reduced performance and chronic pain
Genetic selection and better flooring/bedding can help reduce lameness.
What is the definition of euthanasia?
Good death
Euthanasia methods must prioritize human safety and animal welfare.
What are some common methods of euthanasia?
- Gunshot
- Captive bolt gun
- Blunt force trauma
- Anesthetic overdose
What is the importance of immediate confirmation of death in euthanasia?
To ensure zero returns to sensibility
Follow-up procedures may include bleeding or pithing.
