The Use of Garlic Oil for Olfactory Enrichment Increases the Use of Ropes in Weaned Pigs

Blackie, N; De Sousa, M

Abstract

Pig producers are required to provide environmental enrichment to provide pigs the opportunity to perform investigative and manipulative behaviours (EU directive 2001/93/EC). Preventing enrichment from losing its novelty and decreasing the rate at which animals become habituated is important to maintain use of enrichment over time. A comparative study was formulated to identify whether weaner pigs housed in a semi-barren environment displayed a preference for olfactory enrichment compared to non-scented enrichment. Pigs (n = 146) were selected at 28 days old from two different batches (n = 76 and n = 70) and divided into pens. All pigs were given a control and a treatment (garlic scented) rope. Behavioural observations and rope interactions were assessed through direct observation. Throughout the entire study, the length of interaction with the garlic device was significantly higher (p < 0.02), indicating that there was a preference for olfactory enrichment compared to an odourless device. There was no significant occurrence of tail, ear, or flank biting in both batches. Weaner pigs showed a preference towards olfactory enrichment. Although habituation began to occur, this effect was mitigated by re-spraying the ropes, which resulted in increased interactions.

Citation

Blackie, N., & De Sousa, M. (2019). The Use of Garlic Oil for Olfactory Enrichment Increases the Use of Ropes in Weaned Pigs. Animals, 9(4), 148. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9040148

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 3, 2019
• Publication Date: Apr 5, 2019
• Deposit Date: Apr 12, 2019
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 20, 2020
• Journal: Animals
• Publisher: MDPI
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 9
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 148
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9040148
• Public URL: https://rvc-repository.worktribe.com/output/1382828