Vilain Rörvang, Maria
- Department of Biosystems and Technology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
- Department of Applied Animal Science and Welfare, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Abstract
In this review we summarise the current literature on sensory abilities, sensory enrichments and feeding enrichment materials/solutions for ruminants and equines. Relevant references from each species are included, and gaps in knowledge are identified when references are lacking. The review is not exhaustive, but represents the more recent, and relevant studies on the topics. The review first outlines the limited information available about the sensory abilities of the species consideredwith regards to the five senses: hearing, olfaction, touch, vision, and taste. The review then summarises the available literature on sensory enrichment, which like the one on sensory abilities, is very sparse. In general, research has focussed on visual abilities. Although much remains to be studied, there seems to be good potential to use the sensory abilities of the considered species to enrich their environments. The review further outlines current knowledge about various types of feeding enrichments, focusing on diversity and variety of feed, sensory familiarity, feed neophobia,and mode of presentation. There seems to be good potential to enrich the lives of the speciesconsidered by acting on feeding methods, strategies and substrates. Lastly, the review highlights key factors to focus on during welfare inspections, as well as gaps in the currently existing knowledge. These points lead to the suggestion of future highly relevant research areas within all topics, which could increase enrichment for all species considered.
Published in
REV-Ruminants-Equines
2023, number: 2023-03
Publisher: EURCAW Ruminants & Equines
SLU Authors
UKÄ Subject classification
Animal and Dairy Science
Permanent link to this page (URI)
https://res.slu.se/id/publ/122125