Analysis of Behaviors Observed During Mechanical Nociceptive Threshold Testing in Donkeys and Horses

Abstract

The aims of the study were to analyze and compare behaviors in horses and donkeys observed during nociceptive threshold tests with a mechanical stimulus applied to the limb. The purpose was to identify end point behaviors suggesting the animals had perceived the stimulus to be noxious. Six male castrated horses (aged 3–4 years, weighing 415–503 kg) and eight castrated male donkeys (aged 4–9 years, weighing 152.5–170.5 kg) were studied. Video data recorded during mechanical nociceptive threshold test were analyzed by a single observer. Behaviors were classified into short-duration event behaviors and longer duration activity/state behaviors. Frequency of behaviors within a test (event behavio..