Antimicrobial use for selected diseases in cats in Switzerland.

BACKGROUND: Antibiotic use in human and veterinary medicine is considered a main driver of antimicrobial resistance. Although guidelines to promote appropriate use of antimicrobials in veterinary patients have been developed, antibiotic overprescription is assumed to be a common problem. The goal of this study was to investigate antimicrobial use in cats in Switzerland with acute upper respiratory tract disease (aURTD), feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) and abscesses, and to assess compliance of prescription with consensus guidelines. A total of 776 cases (aURTD, n = 227; FLUTD, n = 333; abscesses, n = 216) presented to two university hospitals and 14 private veterinary practices in Switzerland during 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. Clinical history, diagnostic work-up and antimicrobial prescription (class, dosage, duration) were assessed. RESULTS: A total of 77% (aURTD), 60% (FLUTD) and 96% (abscesses) of the cases received antibiotic therapy; 13-24% received combination or serial therapy. The cats were treated for a median of 7 (abscesses) and 10 days (aURTD, FLUTD). Treatments with potentiated aminopenicillins (40-64%), third generation cephalosporins (25-28%), aminopenicillins (12-24%) and fluoroquinolones (3-13%) were most common. Prescriptions were judged in complete accordance with consensus guidelines in 22% (aURTD), 24% (FLUTD) and 17% (abscesses) of the cases. Antibiotics were prescribed although not indicated in 34% (aURTD), 14% (FLUTD) and 29% (abscesses) of the cases. The presence of lethargy, anorexia or fever in cats with aURTD, and the detection of bacteriuria in cats with FLUTD were significantly associated with antibiotic therapy. Although diagnostic work-up was significantly more common (aURTD: university hospitals, 58%; private practices, 1%; FLUTD: university hospitals, 92%; private practices, 27%) and the use of critically important antibiotics significantly less common at the university hospitals (aURTD, 10%; FLUTD, 14%) compared to private practices (aURTD, 38%; FLUTD, 54%), the frequency of antibiotic treatment was not different between the university hospitals and private practices. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that overprescription of antibiotics in cats in Switzerland is common and accordance with guidelines is poor. The study highlights the need to promote antimicrobial stewardship in small animal medicine.

Short communication: Risk factors for sonographically detectable udder edema in overbagged cows at dairy shows.

At dairy cow shows, the appearance of the udder is very important. To show cows at their best, udders are often presented in an overbagged state by extending milking intervals before the show. This practice represents an animal welfare issue because it is associated with behavior changes (e.g., excessive abduction and decreased eating time) and may affect the health of the animal. The aim of the current study was to determine the association between various parameters (e.g., milk yield, days in milk, milking procedures, or administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, or diuretics) and the sonographically detectable udder edema score. Data were collected from the show catalogs, by interviewing the exhibitors, by analyzing official veterinary treatment protocols and official milking data, via laboratory analysis of blood samples, and by sonographic examinations of the udders at the show. For sonographically detectable udder edema scoring, 3 scans were taken, 1 on each fore quarter and 1 incorporating both rear quarters at the level of the median suspensory ligament. For grading the scans, a scoring system of 4 grades (score 0 = no edema, 1 = slight edema, 2 = moderate edema, 3 = severe edema) was used. Data from 321 cows of different breeds were collected at 4 highly competitive Swiss dairy shows (shows A-D) between January and September 2017. To determine risk factors for sonographically detectable udder edema, data were analyzed with 2 different logistic regression models. In model 1, the odds ratios were 3.33 (milking intervals of ≥16 h vs. <14 h), 3.84 (show A vs. show C), and 7.39 (dairy breeds vs. dual-purpose breeds). Milking intervals of dairy breeds were significantly higher than those of dual-purpose breeds. In model 2, milking interval was the only significant risk factor with an odds ratio of 9.00 for milking intervals of ≥16 h. Only the milking intervals represented a relevant risk factor in both models; therefore, we concluded that the previously described sonographic udder edema scoring is a useful technique for detecting overbagged udders at dairy shows. Its routine implementation may improve cow welfare at dairy shows.

[Study on the current situation in farm animal medicine]. / Studie zur Versorgungslage in der Schweizer Nutztiermedizin.

INTRODUCTION: For a long time there has been a debate in Switzerland as to whether the veterinary farm animal service is still sufficiently guaranteed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the supply and demand of veterinary services for cattle and pigs through a representative survey of veterinarians and farmers. The results revealed that the veterinary farm animal service was rated by the majority of both, farmers and veterinarians, to be good or very good. Veterinary service shortages exist partly in mountain and peripheral regions, in small areas in otherwise well-served regions and in the canton of Ticino. By contrast, about one third of farm animal practices are rather underutilized and would prefer to increase livestock numbers. The emergency service is currently very well guaranteed. Ninety-five percent of veterinarians and farmers stated that on-site emergency service is provided within an hour or less. The quality of veterinary services were also assessed positively by the farmers. While a third of respondents said veterinary care improved compared to five years ago, only two percent felt that veterinary care had deteriorated. Almost all veterinarians stated that vacancies in farm animal practices were difficult to fill adequately. The majority of practice owners do not receive enough applications from suitable candidates. In addition, the majority of applicants were not trained in Switzerland. The security of farm animal veterinary service is currently mostly good to very well guaranteed. However, there is a lack of veterinarians trained to meet the future needs of farm animal veterinarians.

INTRODUCTION: On discute depuis longtemps pour savoir si l'offre de prestations vétérinaires pour les animaux de rente est encore suffisante en Suisse. Le but de la présente étude était de relever l'offre et la demande en matière de prestations vétérinaires pour les bovins et les porcs par le biais d'une enquête représentative auprès de vétérinaires et d'agriculteurs. Les résultats démontrent que l'approvisionnement en soins vétérinaires pour les animaux de rente est considéré, tant par les agriculteurs que par les vétérinaires, comme majoritairement bon à très bon. Il existe des carences en la matière dans les régions de montagnes et les régions périphériques, dans certains endroits de zones autrement bien desservies et dans le canton du Tessin. A l'opposé, environ un tiers des pratiques pour animaux de rente s'estiment sous-occupées et seraient prêtes à s'occuper de plus d'exploitations. Le service d'urgences est actuellement très bien assuré. Cinquante-cinq pour cent des vétérinaires et des agriculteurs ont indiqué qu'il fallait au maximum une heure pour que, en cas d'urgence, le vétérinaire soit sur place. La qualité des prestations vétérinaires a également été jugée de façon positive par les agriculteurs. Un tiers des sondés sont d'avis que la capacité professionnelle s'est améliorée dans les cinq dernières années contre seulement deux pour cent qui estiment qu'elle s'est détériorée. Presque tous les vétérinaires considèrent qu'il est difficile de repourvoir de façon adéquate les places vacantes dans le secteur de la médecine des animaux de rente. Une majorité des propriétaires de cabinets ne reçoit pas assez de postulation venant de candidats appropriés. Les propriétaires de cabinets déclarent également que la majorité des candidats n'ont pas fait leur formation en Suisse. La sécurité de l'approvisionnement en matière de médecine des animaux de rente est actuellement en grande majorité bonne à très bonne. Toutefois la Suisse ne forme actuellement pas assez de vétérinaires pour couvrir les besoins futurs en matière de praticiens ruraux.

Evaluation of anaesthesia and analgesia quality during disbudding of goat kids by certified Swiss farmers.

BACKGROUND: Certified Swiss farmers are allowed to disbud their goat kids using a standard intramuscularly administered anaesthetic mixture. This mixture, containing xylazine and ketamine, is officially distributed with the goal to provide a painless disbudding. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of analgesia and anaesthesia achieved during disbudding, when performed by Swiss farmers. To assess this, 174 goat kids at 31 different farms were observed and filmed during cautery disbudding. RESULTS: The standard anaesthetic mixture (0.05 mg/kg xylazine and 20 mg/kg ketamine) was used only in 71 goat kids. Fifty-eight goat kids were anaesthetised with different dosages of xylazine (median 0.18 mg/kg) and ketamine (median 10 mg/kg), 22 with xylazine only (median 0.61 mg/kg), 20 with xylazine (median 1.84 mg/kg) and perineural lidocaine (median 1.23 mg/kg), three with acepromazine (dosage unknown) and ketamine (10 mg/kg). Based on vocalisation, limb movement and head lifting during disbudding, a general reaction score was attributed to 168 goat kids (six were excluded due to firm restraint): 56.5% were scored zero (no limb movement, no vocalisation), 7.7% one, 17.3% two and 18.5% three (strong movements, vocalisation). Significant risk factors for higher reaction scores were the type of anaesthetic protocol and manipulation by the farmer during induction. Significant risk factors for longer recoveries were use of xylazine alone or xylazine in combination with perineural lidocaine, breed, younger age and recovery underneath heat lamp. CONCLUSIONS: The present study indicates that anaesthesia and analgesia of goat kids disbudded by Swiss farmers is inadequate, as 35.8% of the animals showed moderate to strong behavioural reactions during the procedure. Unexpectedly, only 40.8% of the goat kids were anaesthetised with the standard anaesthetic mixture and several other protocols were used. A refinement of the recommended protocol is urgently needed to guarantee animal welfare.

[Deer farming in Switzerland - Current epidemiological situation with focus on husbandry, management and nutrition]. / Gehegewild in der Schweiz ­ Aktuelle epidemiologische Situation mit Schwerpunkt Haltung, Management und Fütterung.

INTRODUCTION: Between September 2016 and February 2017 a survey in Swiss deer farms were conducted to gain information about their husbandry. Questions about the business, feeding, management, health and deworming strategies were asked. 98 (19%) out of 527 registered farms (2016) participated in the survey. The farms were often run on a sideline business, had an average used agricultural area of 7.3 ha with an average of 38 deer. Pasture access was the preferred feeding strategy followed by offering first and second cut hay. Between 2013-2015 the most common causes of death were sudden death and injuries. Parasites were classified as no or rather small problem by 91 out of 102 deer owner. Fecal parasitological examinations of fecal samples were conducted in 36 (35%) of the responding farms. Gastrointestinal roundworms (Trichostrongylidae) were identified as the most common pathogens (in 42-59% of sampled farms), in addition large lungworms (Dictyocaulus sp.) and coccidia were detected. 45% of the participating farmers conducted at least one treatment against parasites between 2013 and 2015.

INTRODUCTION: Dans le but d'avoir une vue d'ensemble sur la détention du gibier d'élevage en Suisse, une enquête a été menée entre septembre 2016 et février 2017, comprenant des questions relatives à l'exploitation, à l'alimentation, à la situation sanitaire et aux stratégies en matière de vermifugation. 98 des 527 exploitations annoncées en 2016 (19%) ont participé à cette étude. Ces exploitations, qui constituent fréquemment un gain accessoire, avaient une surface agricole d'en moyenne 7,3 ha avec 38 cervidés. En matière d'alimentation, c'est le foin et le regain qui étaient le plus souvent utilisés en complément du pâturage. Les causes de pertes dans les troupeaux entre 2013 et 2015 étaient principalement les cas de mort subite ainsi que les blessures. 91 de 102 détenteurs de cervidés considéraient les parasites comme n'étant pas un problème ou n'étant qu'un faible problème. Des échantillons de selles, prélevés dans 36 (35%) des exploitations ayant répondu au questionnaire, montraient que les nématodes gastro-intestinaux (Trichostrongylidae) étaient les plus fréquents (présents dans 42-59% des exploitations testées); des vers pulmonaires (Dictyocaulus sp.) et des coccidies ont également été trouvés. Environ 45 % des détenteurs de cervidés ayant participé à l'enquête avaient effectué, dans la période comprise entre 2013 et 2015 au moins un traitement antiparasitaire.

Optimization of analgesia for piglet castration under isoflurane anaesthesia with parenteral butorphanol, meloxicam or intratesticular lidocaine.

INTRODUCTION: This blinded prospective study investigated analgesic effects of intramuscular (IM) butorphanol, meloxicam or intratesticular (IT) lidocaine for castration of 7-14 days old piglets under isoflurane anaesthesia. 66 piglets were randomly injected with: meloxicam IM (0.4 mg/kg; group M), butorphanol IM (0.2 mg/kg; group B), or both (group BM) 20 minutes prior to castration, or lidocaine IT (4 mg/kg (group ML4) or 8 mg/kg (group ML8)) together with meloxicam IM (0.4 mg/kg) under anaesthesia with 1.8% end-tidal isoflurane. Heart rate, respiratory rate, mean arterial blood pressure and end-tidal carbon dioxide were recorded. Anaesthesia quality was scored and postoperative behaviour assessed. As butorphanol caused unacceptable side effects, its use was stopped. Group M showed worse anaesthesia quality than ML4 and ML8 (higher incidence of movements: 11/17, 3/18 and 4/17, respectively). There were no significant differences between groups regarding parameters measured during castration. Postoperative behaviour did not differ between groups. For castration of 7-14 days old piglets under isoflurane anaesthesia, IT lidocaine provides an additional side effect free analgesia.

INTRODUCTION: Cette étude prospective en aveugle étudie l'effet analgésique de l'injection intramusculaire (IM) de butorphanol et de méloxicam ou de l'injection intra-testiculaire (IT) de lidocaïne pour la castration, sous anesthésie à l'isoflurane, de porcelets âgés de 7 à 14 jours. Soixante-six porcelets ont reçu de manière aléatoire soit du méloxicam IM (0.4 mg/kg; groupe M), soit du butorphanol IM (0.2 mg/kg; groupe B), soit les deux substances (groupe MB) 20 minutes avant la castration, soit de la lidocaïne IT (4 mg/kg (groupe ML4) ou 8 mg/kg (groupe ML8)) ainsi que du méloxicam IM (0.4 mg/kg), avec une anesthésie à l'isoflurane à 1.8% en fin d'expiration. Les fréquences cardiaques et respiratoires, la pression artérielle moyenne et le CO2 en fin d'expiration ont été documentés. La qualité de l'anesthésie a été estimée et le comportement post-opératoire observé. Le butorphanol a causé des effets secondaires inacceptables et son usage a été stoppé. Le groupe M montrait une plus mauvaise qualité d'anesthésie que les groupes ML4 et ML8 (plus grande incidence de mouvements : 11/17, 3/18 et 4/17). Les autres paramètres intra opératoires ne présentaient pas de différences significatives et on a pas constaté de différences entre les groupes dans la phase postopératoire. Pour la castrations de porcelets âgés de 7 à 14 jours sous anesthésie à l'isoflurane, l'utilisation intra testiculaire de lidocaïne représente une analgésie supplémentaire dépourvue d'effets secondaires.

[AntibioticScout.ch: Decision support for the prudent use of antimicrobials: Application in cattle]. / AntibioticScout.ch: Entscheidungshilfe für den umsichtigen Einsatz von antimikrobiellen Wirkstoffen: Anwendung beim Rind.

INTRODUCTION: The administration of antibiotics in livestock has been criticized for many years, in particular because of an inappropriate use and the appearance of antibiotic residues in the environment, which can promote the emergence and spread of resistant bacteria. However, antibiotics are essential for the successful and sustainable control of bacterial pathogens. With the aim of optimizing the use of antibiotics in food animals and minimizing the prevalence of resistant bacteria, AntibioticScout. ch provides a decision aid for the prudent use of antimicrobial drugs. This approach emphasizes the importance of supportive therapy and the hallmarks of preventive concepts. Procedures to improve animal health and animal welfare in accordance with the principles of good veterinary practice are primary and effective tools to reduce the use of antimicrobial drugs. The necessary reduction in the use of antibiotics must, therefore, be accompanied by appropriate management strategies in animal husbandry. In particular, hygiene, animal welfare and biosecurity measures are crucial to ensure an optimal health status in farm animals.

INTRODUCTION: On discute depuis des années de l'usage des antibiotiques dans l'élevage des animaux de rente, en particulier en ce qui concerne leur utilisation incorrecte et la charge environnementale liée à des résidus d'antibiotiques susceptibles de favoriser l'apparition et la propagation de résistances. Toutefois les antibiotiques sont essentiels pour assurer une lutte efficace et durable contre les maladies d'origine bactérienne. Dans le but d'optimiser l'usage des antibiotiques dans l'élevage des animaux de rente et, par conséquence, de réduire le développement de résistances, AntibioticScout.ch propose une aide à la décision pour un usage prudent de ces substances ("prudent use"). Parallèlement, on attire l'attention sur les traitements adjuvants et sur les mesures de prévention. Des mesures visant à améliorer la santé et le bien-être des animaux en tenant compte des fondements d'une bonne pratique vétérinaire sont des instruments efficaces pour réduire l'usage des antibiotiques. Cette réduction indispensable doit donc être combinée avec des mesures de gestion adéquates dans les élevages. Ce sont en particulier l'hygiène et les conditions d'élevage correctes ainsi que la mise en place de mesures de biosécurité qui sont décisives pour l'optimisation de la santé des troupeaux.

Influence of border disease virus (BDV) on serological surveillance within the bovine virus diarrhea (BVD) eradication program in Switzerland.

BACKGROUND: In 2008, a program to eradicate bovine virus diarrhea (BVD) in cattle in Switzerland was initiated. After targeted elimination of persistently infected animals that represent the main virus reservoir, the absence of BVD is surveilled serologically since 2012. In view of steadily decreasing pestivirus seroprevalence in the cattle population, the susceptibility for (re-) infection by border disease (BD) virus mainly from small ruminants increases. Due to serological cross-reactivity of pestiviruses, serological surveillance of BVD by ELISA does not distinguish between BVD and BD virus as source of infection. RESULTS: In this work the cross-serum neutralisation test (SNT) procedure was adapted to the epidemiological situation in Switzerland by the use of three pestiviruses, i.e., strains representing the subgenotype BVDV-1a, BVDV-1h and BDSwiss-a, for adequate differentiation between BVDV and BDV. Thereby the BDV-seroprevalence in seropositive cattle in Switzerland was determined for the first time. Out of 1,555 seropositive blood samples taken from cattle in the frame of the surveillance program, a total of 104 samples (6.7%) reacted with significantly higher titers against BDV than BVDV. These samples originated from 65 farms and encompassed 15 different cantons with the highest BDV-seroprevalence found in Central Switzerland. On the base of epidemiological information collected by questionnaire in case- and control farms, common housing of cattle and sheep was identified as the most significant risk factor for BDV infection in cattle by logistic regression. CONCLUSION: This indicates that pestiviruses from sheep should be considered as a source of infection of domestic cattle and might well impede serological BVD surveillance.

Technical note: Effects of attachment of hind teats before cleaning and attachment of front teats on milking characteristics in automatic milking systems.

Milking characteristics differ between the 4 quarters of a dairy cow udder. In particular, milking time is mostly prolonged in hind quarters compared with front quarters because of the usually higher amount of stored milk. The standard milking routine (STDMR) in both conventional and automatic milking systems (AMS) consists of teat preparation of all 4 quarters, followed by attachment of the 4 teat cups, regardless of the distribution of milk between quarters. In the current study, an alternative teat preparation and milking routine (ALTMR) in AMS was tested, which consisted of cleaning and starting the milking of hind teats before cleaning and attachment of front teats. The hypothesis was based on the fact that hind quarters have usually a longer milking time than front quarters. Starting the milking of hind quarters while the front teats are being cleaned may reduce the difference in the end of milking between front and hind quarters and thus reduce total milking time. Both routines were tested on 5 Swedish dairy farms equipped with AMS in a 4-wk experiment in which treatments were alternated weekly. Total milk yield did not differ between treatments. Machine-on time (MOT) was longer in ALTMR than in STDMR because the difference in milking time between hind and front quarters was less than the time needed to prepare the front teats. However, the longer MOT in ALTMR was compensated by a shorter total preparation time, including the attachment of the first teat cup, as only the hind teats (instead of all 4 teats) were cleaned before milking was started. This resulted in a similar total milking time from start of cleaning of the first quarter until the end of milking of the last quarter in both treatments. Because of the prolonged MOT, average milk flow rate was lower in ALTMR than STDMR. Peak flow rate was higher in ALTMR than STDMR, but only in teat cups 1 (first attached, hind quarter) and 3 (third attached, front quarter), whereas main milk flow was higher in ALTMR than STDMR in both front quarters. In conclusion, splitting teat cleaning and the start of milking between hind and front quarters does not prolong total milking time, including teat cleaning. The partially positive effect on peak and main milk flow indicates that the ALTMR is a suitable milking routine in AMS. In herds with a greater difference of milk stored in hind compared with front quarters, a reduced total milking time can be expected for ALTMR.

Locomotion characteristics of dairy cows walking on pasture and the effect of artificial flooring systems on locomotion comfort.

The locomotion comfort of dairy cows depends on the floor of the walking alleys. Optimal locomotion comfort is given when cows walk on pasture, allowing freedom from discomfort and pain and the expression of normal behavior. This study examined the characteristics of locomotion behavior on pasture (gold standard with optimal locomotion comfort) and compared it with behaviors of cows walking on mastic asphalt or solid rubber mats before and after a routine claw trimming session. Our hypotheses were (1) that gait variables were different on pasture versus mastic asphalt and on mastic asphalt versus rubber, and (2) that claw trimming had an effect on gait variables of cows walking on mastic asphalt. Twenty-four dairy cows kept in a tiestall facility were enrolled in this experimental trial. The pedogram was measured using 2 standalone 3-dimensional accelerometers (400 Hz), attached to the metatarsus of both hind limbs. The extracted pedogram variables included temporal events (kinematic outcome = gait cycle and stance-phase and swing-phase durations) and peaks (kinetic outcome = foot load, toe-off). The cows were further video-recorded to calculate walking speed and stride length. Locomotion score was performed on mastic asphalt to enroll only nonlame cows (locomotion score <3). For comparison between different floor types, repeated-measures ANOVA was performed with the cow as a subject variable, session time of measurement as within-subject variable, and flooring type as a fixed effect. Three separate analyses were performed: pasture versus mastic asphalt (analysis I), solid rubber versus mastic asphalt (analysis II), and the effect of claw trimming on the kinematic and kinetic variables on mastic asphalt (analysis III). All tested gait variables were significantly different between pasture and mastic asphalt floor. The optimal characteristics of locomotion comfort on pasture included shorter duration of gait cycle, longer stance-phase duration, shorter swing-phase duration, higher walking speed, longer stride length, and higher peaks of foot load and toe-off. However, gait variables of cows walking on rubber mats did not show any significant difference compared with the mastic asphalt floor; only stride length tended to be longer on rubber mats. In addition, the stance- and swing-phase durations significantly improved shortly after trimming. The left-right differences of the stance- and swing-phase durations tended to decrease after claw trimming when cows walked on asphalt floor. The results of this study show that solid rubber flooring does not result in significant improvement of the evaluated variables of locomotion comfort compared with mastic asphalt.

[AntibioticScout.ch: A decision supporting tool for antimicrobial stewardship: application to companion animal medicine]. / AntibioticScout.ch: Eine Entscheidungshilfe für den umsichtigen Einsatz von antimikrobiellen Wirkstoffen: Anwendung in der Kleintiermedizin.

INTRODUCTION: Bacterial resistances to antimicrobial drugs pose serious public health challenges. The observed increase of resistances is attributed to the uncontrolled, massive and often unnecessary administration of antibiotics both in human and veterinary medicine. To support the responsible use of antimicrobials in animals and help veterinarians selecting the most suitable antimicrobial drugs, we developed the AntibioticScout.ch as a comprehensive decision supporting tool providing online access to the current knowledge of rational antibiotic prescription practices. User-friendly search functions allow for the fast and efficient retrieval of information that is structured in this database by animal species, organ systems and therapeutic indications. In addition, an online form allows to report treatment failures in order to identify problematic cases as well as ensuing risks and take appropriate mitigation measures. The present report describes the workflow of this decision support system applied to the prudent use of antimicrobials in companion animal medicine.

INTRODUCTION: Les résistances bactériennes face aux substances antimicrobiennes placent le système de santé face à de grands défis. L'augmentation des résistances est attribuée à une utilisation mal dirigée, massive et souvent inutile d'antibiotiques tant en médecine humaine qu'en médecine vétérinaire. Afin d'encourager une utilisation responsable des substances antimicrobiennes en médecine vétérinaire et pour soutenir les vétérinaires lors du choix de l'antibiotique adapté, on a créé, avec AntibioticScout. ch, une aide à la décision de grande envergure qui permet de recourir à chaque instant aux principes de prescription reconnus de la médecine fondée sur les faits (Evidence Based Medicine). La banque de données est structurée par espèces animales, systèmes d'organes et indications et un moteur de recherche intuitif garantit de trouver rapidement et efficacement les informations. D'autre part un formulaire en ligne pour l'annonce d'une inefficacité est proposé afin de reconnaitre les cas à problèmes et les risques en vue d'améliorer l'aide au diagnostic. La présente contribution pour but de démontrer l'utilisation d'AntibioticScout pour un usage prudent des antibiotiques en médecine des petits animaux.

[Impact of entry age and veterinary care on health and performance of veal calves. I. Mortality and antimicrobial use]. / Einfluss des Einstallalters und der tierärztlichen Betreuung auf die Gesundheit und Leistung von Mastkälbern. I. Mortalität und Antibiotikaeinsatz.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this field study was to describe the impact of the entry age and intensive veterinary care on mortality and antimicrobial use of veal calves in Switzerland. From July until October 2012, a total of 316 young calves (aged ø 10.8 days) and from November 2012 until May 2013 a total of 425 market calves (aged ø 39.5 days) were housed on a welcome-farm, where they obtained daily veterinary care during the first 6 weeks of the production cycle. As a 3rd category 2 groups of 34 and 31 old calves (aged ø 61.5 days), respectively, were housed on a commercial farm. From entry to slaughter the daily doses of antibiotics on group level averaged 35.6 in young calves, 26.2 in commercial calves, and 21.0 in old calves. On the welcome-farm 45.9% and 48.5% of the young and market calves, respectively, were individually treated, and in the finishing period of the production cycle 10.4% and 3.3% of the young and market calves, respectively. Of the old calves 16.9% were individually treated. Mortality was 6.7% in young calves, 8.2% in commercial calves, and 4.6% in old calves. Intensive veterinary care guaranteed early recognition of disease and euthanasia of terminally morbid calves. The different entry ages did not lead to any reduction in mortality or in antimicrobial use compared to previous studies.

INTRODUCTION: Le but de cette étude pratique était de décrire l'effet de l'âge de mise en lot et d'un suivi vétérinaire intensif sur la mortalité et l'usage d'antibiotiques chez des veaux d'engraissement suisses. Pour cela on a mis en lot chaque mois, de juillet à octobre 2012, de jeunes veaux (au total 316 animaux d'un âge moyen de 10.8 jours) puis, de novembre 2012 à mai 2013 au total 425 veaux d'âge usuel pour le marché (âge moyen 39.5 jours). Ces deux catégories d'âges ont passé les 6 premières semaines d'engraissement dans l'exploitation d'accueil et ont été contrôlés journellement du point de vue vétérinaire. Le troisième groupe était composé de 65 veaux plus âgés (âge moyen 61.5 jours) et a été mis en lot sur une exploitation d'engraissement conventionnelle. Les doses quotidiennes d'antibiotiques au niveau du groupe depuis la mise en lot jusqu'à l'abattage s'élevaient chez les jeunes veaux à 35.6, chez les veaux d'âge de marché usuel à 26.2 et chez les veaux plus âgés à 21.0. Sur l'exploitation d'accueil, 45.9% des jeunes veaux et 48.5% des veaux en âge de marché ont reçu un traitement antibiotique individuel, sur les exploitations d'engraissement 10.4% respectivement 3.3%. 16.9% des veaux plus âgés ont reçu un traitement individuel. La mortalité s'est élevée chez les jeunes veaux à 6.7%, chez les veaux en âge de marché usuel à 8.2% et chez les veaux plus âgés à 4.6%. Le suivi vétérinaire intensif a permis la reconnaissance précoce de maladies et la mise à mort des veaux avec un mauvais pronostic. Toutefois la modification de l'âge de mise en lot n'a pas permis de réduire la mortalité et l'emploi d'antibiotiques en comparaison avec des études antérieures.

[Impact of the entry age and veterinary care on the health and performance of veal calves. II. Blood values, performance and carcass quality]. / Einfluss des Einstallalters und der tierärztlichen Betreuung auf die Gesundheit und Leistung von Mastkälbern. II. Blutwerte, Leistungsparameter und Schlachtkörperqualität.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this field study was to investigate the impact of the entry age and of veterinary care on blood values, performance and carcass quality of veal calves in Switzerland. From July 2012 until May 2013 a total of 316 young calves (aged ø 10.8 days), 425 market calves (aged ø 39.5 days), and 65 old calves (aged ø 61.5 days) were observed during the production cycle. As control calves 9'019 veal calves fattened at the same time as the market calves were available. At time of entry the average hemoglobin value of 88.2 g/l in market calves was significantly (p < 0.001) lower than in young (96.2 g/l), old (95.0 g/l) and control calves (95.0 g/l). At time of slaughter the hemoglobin of control calves was 101.2 g/l and significantly (p < 0.001) lower than in young (129.6 g/l) and market calves (131.6 g/l). The average daily weight gain reached 1.21 kg in young calves, 1.28 kg in market calves, 1.29 kg in old calves and 1.30 kg in control calves. The premature slaughter rate was 3.4% in control calves, 8.1% young (p < 0.001), 3.4% in commercial and 0% in old calves (p = 0.17). The percentage of the favorite carcass quality was 53.8% in control calves and differed significantly (p < 0.001) from young (43.5%) and market calves (42.8%), but not from old calves (50.8%, p = 0.9). The carcass color with the average photometric L-value of 41.5 in young and 41.6 in market calves differed significantly (p < 0.001) from old (44.4) and control calves (45.4). The intensive veterinary care and the different entry ages had no positive effect on performance and carcass quality. The iron supply resulted in increased hemoglobin values and in reddish carcass color in more than 50% of the investigated calves.

INTRODUCTION: Le but de la présente étude était d'étudier les effets de l'âge de la mise en lot et d'un suivi vétérinaire intensif sur les valeurs sanguines, les performances et la qualité des carcasses de veaux d'engraissement suisses. Entre juillet 2012 et mai 2013, on a suivi de la mise en lot jusqu'à l'abattage 316 jeunes veaux (âge moyen 10.8 jours), 425 veaux en âge usuel de marché (âge moyen 39.5 jours) et 65 veaux plus âgés (âge moyen 61.5 jours). On disposait comme groupe de contrôle de 9019 veaux engraissés conventionnellement, qui avaient été mis en lot au même moment que les veaux en âge usuel de marché. Au début de l'engraissement, la valeur moyenne d'hémoglobine chez les veaux en âge usuel de marché était, avec 88.2 g/l, significativement différente (p.

[AntibioticScout: Online tool for antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary medicine]. / AntibioticScout: Online-Entscheidungshilfe für den umsichtigen Einsatz von antimikrobiellen Wirkstoffen.

INTRODUCTION: Resistances to antimicrobials pose serious public health challenges. This issue concerns both human and veterinary medicine and can only be solved by a multidisciplinary approach. A comprehensive concept is, therefore, being worked out within the StAR (strategy antibiotic resistance) program in order to preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for humans as well as animals. In this context, the AntibioticScout (www.AntibioticScout. ch) offers a new online tool for the prudent use of antibiotics in veterinary medicine. By involving all stakeholders, the guidelines included in the AntibioticScout will result in a nationwide accepted standard for the treatment of bacterial infections in animals. An additional system for the rapid reporting of cases of suspected lack of efficacy of antimicrobials is integrated to allow early detection of emerging resistance and the immediate launch of risk mitigation measures. A first version of the AntibioticScout for the treatment of dogs, cats and horses is available by the end of 2016. All stakeholders are now invited to contribute to the development of the AntibioticScout decision support.

INTRODUCTION: Les résistances face aux substances antimicrobiennes placent le système de santé face à de grands défis. Ce problème touche aussi bien la médecine humaine que vétérinaire et ne peut être réglé que de façon transversale. C'est pour cette raison qu'a été développé, avec le programme StAR (Strategie Antibiotikaresistenzen), un concept global pour assurer à long terme l'efficacité des antibiotiques aussi bien chez les hommes que chez les animaux. Dans ce contexte, nous mettons à disposition, avec le développement d'AntibioticScout (www.AntibioticScout. ch), un nouvel outil en ligne pour soutenir un usage responsable des antibiotiques en médecine vétérinaire. Avec le concours de représentants de tous les milieux intéressés, il s'agit de développer les lignes directrices d'un standard accepté au plan national pour le traitement des infections bactériennes chez les animaux et de le mettre à disposition dans AntibioticScout. En outre un système d'annonce immédiate en cas d'inefficacité sera mis en place, afin de repérer précocement les risques et de prendre les mesures correspondantes. Une première version d'AntibioticScout pour le traitement des chiens, chats et chevaux est disponible dès fin 2016. Tous les cercles intéressés sont dès maintenant invités à contribuer au développement d'Antibiotic Scout.

Development and validation of a novel pedometer algorithm to quantify extended characteristics of the locomotor behavior of dairy cows.

Behavior is one of the most important indicators for assessing cattle health and well-being. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a novel algorithm to monitor locomotor behavior of loose-housed dairy cows based on the output of the RumiWatch pedometer (ITIN+HOCH GmbH, Fütterungstechnik, Liestal, Switzerland). Data of locomotion were acquired by simultaneous pedometer measurements at a sampling rate of 10 Hz and video recordings for manual observation later. The study consisted of 3 independent experiments. Experiment 1 was carried out to develop and validate the algorithm for lying behavior, experiment 2 for walking and standing behavior, and experiment 3 for stride duration and stride length. The final version was validated, using the raw data, collected from cows not included in the development of the algorithm. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated between accelerometer variables and respective data derived from the video recordings (gold standard). Dichotomous data were expressed as the proportion of correctly detected events, and the overall difference for continuous data was expressed as the relative measurement error. The proportions for correctly detected events or bouts were 1 for stand ups, lie downs, standing bouts, and lying bouts and 0.99 for walking bouts. The relative measurement error and Spearman correlation coefficient for lying time were 0.09% and 1; for standing time, 4.7% and 0.96; for walking time, 17.12% and 0.96; for number of strides, 6.23% and 0.98; for stride duration, 6.65% and 0.75; and for stride length, 11.92% and 0.81, respectively. The strong to very high correlations of the variables between visual observation and converted pedometer data indicate that the novel RumiWatch algorithm may markedly improve automated livestock management systems for efficient health monitoring of dairy cows.

Risk assessment for the design of a risk-based surveillance programme for fish farms in Switzerland (in accordance with Council Directive 2006/88/EC of the European Union).

Swiss aquaculture farms were assessed according to their risk of acquiring or spreading viral haemorrhagic septicaemia (VHS) and infectious haematopoietic necrosis (IHN). Risk factors for the introduction and spread of VHS and IHN were defined and assessed using published data and expert opinions. Among the 357 aquaculture farms identified in Switzerland, 49.3% were categorised as high risk, 49.0% as medium risk and 1.7% as low risk. According to the new Directive 2006/88/EC for aquaculture of the European Union, the frequency of farm inspections must be derived from their risk levels. A sensitivity analysis showed that water supply and fish movements were highly influential on the output of the risk assessment regarding the introduction of VHS and IHN. Fish movements were also highly influential on the risk assessment output regarding the spread of these diseases.

Illegal import of bushmeat and other meat products into Switzerland on commercial passenger flights.

Illegal imports of meat can present substantial risks to public and animal health. Several European countries have reported considerable quantities of meat imported on commercial passenger flights. The objective of this study was to estimate the quantity of meat illegally imported into Switzerland, with a separate estimation for bushmeat. Data were obtained by participation in intervention exercises at Swiss international airports and by analysing data on seizures during the four-year period 2008 to 2011. The study revealed that a wide array of animal species was imported into Switzerland. From the database, the average annual weight of meat seized during the period analysed was 5.5 tonnes, of which 1.4% was bushmeat. However, in a stochastic model the total annual inflow of illegal meat imports was estimated at 1,013 tonnes (95% CI 226 to 4,192) for meat and 8.6 tonnes (95% CI 0.8 to 68.8) for bushmeat. Thus, even for a small European country such as Switzerland the quantities of illegally imported meat and meat products are substantial and the consequences for public and animal health could be high. To reduce the risk, it is essential that surveillance at European airports is harmonised and that passenger information campaigns clarify the consequences of the illegal import of meat, particularly bushmeat.

Effects of different types of solid feeds on health status and performance of Swiss veal calves. I. Basic feeding with milk by-products.

The objective of this study was to identify a suitable alternative to the current practice of complementing the feeding of milk by-products with straw. The influence of 5 different types of solid feeds on health and performance of Swiss veal calves was investigated in 2 production cycles of 200 veal calves each with a mean initial age of 40 days (d). The calves were housed in groups of 40 in stalls with outside pen. Liquid feeding consisted of a milk by-product combined with an additional skim milk powder ad libitum. Groups were assigned to 1 of the 5 following experimental solid feeds provided ad libitum: mix (composition: soy flakes, corn, barley, wheat, oat, barley middling, plant oil, molasses), whole plant corn pellets, corn silage, hay, and wheat straw as control. Daily dry matter intake per calf averaged 2.25 kg of the liquid food, 0.16 kg of straw, 0.33 kg of mix, 0.47 kg of corn silage, 0.38 kg of corn pellets, and 0.39 kg of hay. No significant differences (P > 0.05) among groups were found in calf losses that amounted to 4.8 % (68 % because of gastrointestinal disorders). Four percent of the calves were slaughtered prematurely. Daily doses of antibiotics were higher in the mix (36.9 d, P < 0.01) and in the corn silage groups (35 d, P < 0.01) compared to control. Compared to the 4 other groups, calves of the straw group showed the highest prevalence of abnormal ruminal content (73 %, P < 0.05), of abnormal ruminal papillae (42 %, P < 0.05), of abomasal fundic lesions (13.5 %, P < 0.1), and the lowest number of chewing movements per bolus (45, P < 0.05). The hemoglobin concentration averaged 85 g/l at the beginning and 99 g/l at the end of the fattening period with no significant differences among groups (P > 0.1). The duration of the fattening period averaged 114 d, slaughter age 157 d, and carcass weight 122 kg. The average daily weight gain (ADG) was highest in the control group straw (1.35 kg), and lowest in the hay group (1.22 kg, P < 0.01). The number of carcasses classified as C, H, and T (very high to medium quality) was lower in the hay group compared to straw (P < 0.01). No significant differences between groups were found in meat color (P > 0.1): 73 % of the carcasses were assessed as pale (267/364), 18 % as pink (66/364), and 9 % (31/364) as red. The results reveal that whole-plant corn pellets are most consistent with an optimal result combining the calves' health and fattening performance. Therefore, it can be recommended as an additional solid feed for veal calves under Swiss conditions.

Le but de cette étude était de trouver une alternative adéquate à l'affouragement complémentaire de paille chez les veaux d'engraissement. Au cours de 2 périodes d'engraissement avec chaque fois 200 veaux débutant leur engraissement à l'âge de 40 jours, on a étudié l'influence de 5 fourrages grossiers différents sur la santé et la productivité. Les veaux étaient détenus par groupe de 40 avec un accès libre à un enclos extérieur. Le fourrage liquide se composait d'un sous-produit lacté complété par la poudre de lait et offert ad libitum. On a offert à chaque groupe un des fourrages expérimentaux suivant : mix (composition : flocons de soya, maïs orges, blé, avoine, farine d'orge, huile végétale, mélasse), cubes de mais plante entière, silo de mais, foin et paille de blé pour le groupe de contrôle. La consommation journalière en poids de matière sèche s'élevait en moyenne par veau à 2.25 kg pour l'aliment liquide, 0.16 kg pour la paille, 0.33 kg pour le mix, 0.47 kg pour le silo de mais, 0.38 kg pour les cubes de mais et 0.39 kg pour le foin. Il y avait pas de différence significative entre les groupe quant aux pertes qui atteignaient un total 4.8 % (68 % pour des problèmes gastro-intestinaux). 4 % des veaux ont du être abattu précocement. Les veaux des groupes mix et silo de mais ont été traités plus longtemps avec un antibiotique que le groupe de contrôle paille (groupe mix : 36.9 jours, P < 0.01, groupe silo de mais 35 jours, P < 0.01). En comparaison avec les 4 autres groupes, les veaux du groupe paille présentaient plus de contenu anormal de la panse (73 %, P < 0.05), ils avaient plus fréquemment des villosités de la panse anormales (42 %, P < 0.05), plus fréquemment des lésions de la caillette (13.5 %, P < 0.01) et ils montraient la moins bonne rumination (45 coups par bolus, P < 0.05). La concentration moyenne en hémoglobine était de 85g/l au début et 99 g/l à la fin de l'engraissement sans différence significative entre les groupes (P > 0.01). La durée moyenne d'engraissement était de 180 jours, l'âge moyen d'abattage de 157 jours et le poids moyen à l'abattage de 122 kg. La prise de poids moyenne journalière était la plus importante chez les veaux du groupe paille (1.35 Kg) et la plus faible chez les veaux du groupe foin (1.22 kg, P < 0.01) Le nombre de carcasses classées bonnes à très bonnes était plus faible dans le groupe foins que dans le groupe paille. Pour ce qui est de la couleur de la viande, on ne pouvait pas constater de différence significative entre les groupes (P > 0.1): 73 % des carcasses était classées comme claires (267/364), 18 % comme roses (66/364) und 9 % comme rouges (31/364). Les présents résultats montrent que les cubes de mais plante entière correspondent le mieux aux besoins en matière de santé et productivité des veaux d'engraissement. Ils peuvent être donc recommandés comme alternative à l'affouragement de paille chez les veaux en Suisse.

Effects of different types of solid feeds on health status and performance of Swiss veal calves. II. Basic feeding with whole milk.

The objective of this study was to identify a suitable alternative to the current practice of complementing the feeding of whole milk with straw. The influence of 3 different solid supplements on the health and performance of Swiss veal calves was investigated during 3 production cycles of 90 veal calves each with a mean initial age of 42 days and a mean initial weight of 68.7 kg. The calves were housed in groups of 30 in stalls strewn with wheat straw without outside pen. Liquid feeding consisted of whole milk combined with an additional skim milk powder ad libitum. Groups were assigned to one of the three following experimental solid feeds provided ad libitum: Pellet mix (composition: oat hulls, corn [whole plant], barley, sunflower seeds, squeezed grains of corn, molasses and a pellet binder), whole plant corn pellets, and wheat straw as control. Calves of the straw group showed significantly more abomasal lesions in the fundic part as compared to the pellet mix and corn pellets groups (P < 0.001), the prevalence of insufficient papillae was highest (P < 0.05), and ruminating behavior was unsatisfactory. In contrast to the pellet mix and straw groups, performance of calves in the corn pellets group was good. Additionally, prevalence of abomasal fundic lesions was lowest (P < 0.001), and rumen development was best in calves of the corn pellets group (P < 0.01). As in part I, the results reveal that whole-plant corn pellets are most consistent with an optimal result combining the calves' health and fattening performance. Therefore, it can be recommended as a solid supplement for veal calves basically fed whole milk under Swiss conditions.

Le but de cette étude était de trouver une alternative adéquate à la paille utilisée actuellement en tant qu'adjonction au lait entier. Pour cela, on a étudié l'effet de trois aliments solides différents sur la santé et la productivité de veaux suisses durant 3 périodes d'engraissement avec à chaque fois 90 veaux, une durée d'engraissement moyenne de 42 jours et un poids moyen de 68.7 kg au début de l'engraissement. Les veaux ont été détenus par groupes de 30 dans des écuries paillées sans enclos extérieur. L'alimentation liquide ad libitum se composait de lait entier complété par de la poudre de lait maigre. Les groupes ont reçu aléatoirement l'un des trois aliments solides testés, à savoir : cubes mélangés (composés de son d'avoine, de maïs plante entière, de graines de tournesol, de maïs aplati, de mélasse et de LignoBond DD comme agglomérant), cubes de maïs plante entière ou paille (groupe de contrôle). Les veaux du groupe «paille¼ présentait, comparativement à ceux des deux autres groupes, significativement plus de lésions de la caillette dans la zone du fundus (< 0.001), le nombre de veaux avec des villosités de la panse insuffisamment développées était plus élevé (P < 0.05) et la rumination était insatisfaisante. Contrairement à ceux des groupes «cubes mélangés¼ et «paille¼, les performances des veaux complémentés avec des cubes de maïs étaient bonnes et leurs carcasses correspondaient au mieux à la demande du marché. En outre, la prévalence de lésions de la caillette dans la zone du fundus était la plus basse chez les veaux nourris avec des cubes e maïs (P < 0.001) et le développement de la panse était le meilleur (P < 0.01). Comme dans la partie I de cette étude, les résultats présentés indiquent que les cubes de maïs plante entière sont une alternative applicable à l'affouragement de paille tel que pratiqué jusqu'à maintenant pour les veaux d'engrais.

[Experiences with pain control during piglet castration in Switzerland Part 1: Inhalation anesthesia]. / Erfahrungen zur Schmerzausschaltung bei der Ferkelkastration in der Schweiz Teil 1: Inhalationsanästhesie.

The objectives of this study were a description of the practical implementation of the painless castration under inhalational anaesthesia with an objective assessment of animal welfare, workplace safety and time exposure. 600 questionnaires were sent to farmers all over Switzerland and 100 farms were visited during castration under inhalation anaesthesia. 44 % of the visited farmers administered analgetics during anaesthesia or less than 10 minutes before castration. 14 % of the piglets were insufficiently anaesthetised (moving or vocalising) and 18 % showed stronger bleeding tendency after castration. The mortality rate was less than 0.1 %. 22 % of the swine farmers reported headache or dizziness during or after castration work. The Isoflurane level on 2 farms was above the Swiss safety limits. The time needed for castration was with 4.3 minutes clearly above the time necessary without anaesthesia. The additional financial costs and time are at the moment not adequately compensated to the farmers.

Le but de la présente étude était de décrire la mise en application en Suisse de la castration indolore des porcelets sous anesthésie par inhalation et d'étudier les aspects de protection des animaux, de sécurité à la place de travail ainsi que de l'investissement en temps pour cette castration. On a envoyé 600 questionnaires à des producteurs de porcelets dans toute la Suisse (taux de retour 40.5 %) et 100 exploitations ont été visitées lors de castrations sous anesthésie par inhalation. Sur 44 % des exploitations visitées, un analgésique était appliqué soit pendant l'anesthésie soit moins de 10 minutes avant la castration. 14 % des porcelets montraient des réactions de défense ou des vocalisations causées par la castration et 18% présentaient une tendance augmentée aux saignements après la castration. La mortalité était inférieure à 0.1 %. 22 % des exploitants mentionnaient des céphalées ou des vertiges pendant ou après les castrations. Sur deux exploitations, les concentrations limites d'isoflurane admises en Suisse étaient dépassées. Le temps nécessaire pour une castration, y compris le pré- et le postopératoire, était, avec 4,3 minute, nettement supérieur à celui nécessaire pour une castration sans anesthésie. Les producteurs ne sont actuellement pas correctement indemnisés pour les surcoûts et l'investissement supplémentaire en temps.