Effect of ‘combing’ on intramuscular sedation in pigs in a clinical setting—A randomised trial
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pigs pose distinct challenges to the anaesthetist due to their temperament, the limitations of manual restraint and species-specific anatomical features. Despite the importance of minimising stress during clinical procedures, gentle handling techniques tailored for pigs in a clinical setting have yet to be clearly described or systematically investigated. METHODS: Sixteen healthy domesticated pigs were prospectively enrolled in a clinical study evaluating 'combing' with a fork as a gentle tactile handling technique in a hospital setting and randomly assigned to either a combing or a control group. Responses were evaluated by a non-blinded, single observer using a seven-domain sedation scale and a dichotomous response scale. RESULTS: Sedation scores were significantly higher for combing than control. The onset of peak sedation time was significantly faster for combing than control (5 vs. 10 minutes). Fewer (12.5%) pigs in the combing group moved away from the injection compared to 75% of control pigs. LIMITATIONS: Limitations included the injectable drug protocol used, the lack of blinding with a single observer aware of group allocation, and more than one individual performing the 'combing' protocol. CONCLUSIONS: 'Combing', a gentle handling technique performed prior to intramuscular sedation, resulted in pigs being less reactive to the injection, and faster sedation onset.
Source: Veterinary Record
DOI: 10.1002/vetr.6124
Language: English
Subfield: Small Animals
Field: Veterinary
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,980
OpenAlex ID: W4416945472