Sirvi Autor "Orro, Toomas (advisor)" järgi

Nüüd näidatakse 1 - 20 26

Acute phase response and milk yield in dairy cows during topical treatment of digital dermatitis
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2024) Kössö, Laura Katariina; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Pirkkalainen, Hertta (advisor)
Digital dermatitis (DD) is a worldwide spread contagious disease of cattle causing painful lesions on the interdigital skin of the animals’ feet. Aetiology of the disease is not fully known yet, but according to current knowledge DD is a polytreponemal disease. DD is treated with topical antibiotic or non-antibiotic substances. Decreased milk yield has been observed together with DD. Lameness related to DD is considered to be one factor resulting in the loss of production and impaired welfare. Acute phase response (APR) is organisms’ way to fight against trauma or pathogens via acute phase proteins (APPs). APPs are activated by cytokines, the protein hormones that have multiple crucial roles in maintaining homeostasis. There has been some evidence of systemic APR in relation with DD. The aim of the thesis was to evaluate the effects of topical DD treatment to the APR during a two-week study period. Also, the effect of DD to milk yield was evaluated. During the study period, fibrinogen was significantly elevated in cows with DD in comparison to the healthy control group. Haptoglobin and serum amyloid-A were not significantly elevated. Milk yield was observed for a 28-day period, but there wasn’t a significant difference between study and control groups. These results indicate that topical DD treatment causes local inflammation which activates APR via fibrinogen.
Acute phase response of cows with sole ulcers
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2025) Pernaa, Ida Johanna; Pirkkalainen, Hertta (advisor); Orro, Toomas (advisor); Chair of Clinical Veterinary Medicine
Lameness caused by claw disorders, such as sole ulcers (SU), remains a major welfare and economic issue in dairy production. SUs are painful lesions resulting from compression of the sole’s corium, leading to inflammation and impaired productivity. This case-control study examined the acute phase response in dairy cows with SUs by measuring serum levels of three acute phase proteins (APP): serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp), and fibrinogen (Fib). Clinically healthy cows were used as controls. Fib concentrations were higher in SU cows compared to controls at all timepoints, with the difference being a trend on day 14 and reaching statistical significance on day 21. This may indicate prolonged inflammation in cows with SUs. In contrast, SAA and Hp levels showed no significant differences between groups at any timepoint. The lack of difference may be due to subclinical conditions in control cows or the nonspecific nature of APPs, as elevated levels were also observed in some control animals. The presence of granulation tissue and bilateral lesions could contribute to the sustained inflammation and delayed healing. These findings highlight the importance of early detection, careful selection of control animals, serial monitoring of acute phase proteins and good hygiene during hoof trimming in combination with timely therapeutic intervention to support recovery and minimize systemic inflammatory burden.
Antimicrobial Resistance of Escherichia Coli and Enterococci Isolated From Swine, Cattle and Dogs and Mastitis Pathogens Isolates in Estonia in 2006-2015
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2019) Aasmäe, Birgit; Kalmus, Piret (advisor); Orro, Toomas (advisor); Nilsson, Oskar (opponent)
Antimicrobial resistance has been a global emerging threat in both human and veterinary medicine during last two decades. Antimicrobial resistance as a global problem needs to be handled on national, regional and international levels as a “One Health” approach with involvement of professionals in human and veterinary medicine. This broad-based overview of antimicrobial resistance of animal (swine, cattle and dogs) bacteria isolated in Estonia creates a basis for the future investigations and analyses of the resistance development in Estonia. The prevalence of acquired antimicrobial resistance both in commensal bacteria of the enteric microflora of healthy animals (swine and cattle) and animal pathogens indirectly indicates the magnitude of the selective pressure from the use of antimicrobials in animal populations. In light of this, we strongly recommend assessment of the treatment plans in the swine industry in Estonia in order to ensure the prudent use of antimicrobials and to minimise the potential spread of resistant bacteria from swine to the environment and to humans. The use of antimicrobials in cattle in Estonia should be reviewed. Appropriate guidelines for antibiotic usage were first published in 2012, while completed guidelines for antimicrobial treatment of different animal species were published and implemented in 2018. A system for effective control of the use of antibiotics in veterinary medicine in Estonia is still needed.
Assessment of chronic pain in Scottish fold cats: a case series study
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2024) Knuth, Erja; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Tienhaara, Mari (advisor)
As the level of quality in veterinary healthcare is improving, the life expectancy of domestic animals is extending. This has led to a higher incidence of chronic conditions, many of them associated with pain and ultimately affecting the overall quality of life and welfare. Cats are known to hide their pain very efficiently and comprehending their subtle body language can be challenging and chronic pain can go unnoticed by the owners as well as veterinarians. Various tools for pain assessment have been developed for veterinary use. To be able to use these tools, veterinarians should understand the importance of the owner's input when assessing chronic pain in cats. This retrospective case series study illustrates the most prevalent sources of chronic pain, including degenerative joint disease, cancer-related pain, oral pain, and neuropathic pain. The study describes how to approach chronic pain assessment and management. Scottish folds are one breed, where chronic pain can be seen at a very young age. Medical records of Scottish fold cats between September 2022 and March 2024 were reviewed. This study presents six cases of Scottish fold cats diagnosed with Scottish fold osteochondrodysplasia (SFOCD), describing the most prevalent clinical signs, age of onset, veterinarians’ approach to treatment, and possibilities of using the feline quality of life questionnaire (FQoL) in these patients. Chronic pain assessment should be implemented in the clinical examination on each visit, even at a very young age. The youngest cats with signs of chronic pain were four months old. Owners' input in chronic pain assessment is critical and questionnaires, such as FQoL can be beneficial in pain assessment.
Associations of acute phase proteins with bovine respiratory disease in calves
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2024) Askola, Johanna; Orro, Toomas (advisor)
Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a global problem with long-lasting morbidity and increased mortality. It causes economic losses and compromises animal welfare throughout production chain. Clinical and subclinical BRD complicates growth and fertility, lowers productivity and overall quality of animals. BRD weakens immunity making bovine susceptible to infections. BRD is difficult to prevent, treat and diagnose as it is a combination of multiple challenges such as poor calf management and high pathogen load at farm. In BRD pathogens and tissue trauma provoke local cells to produce proinflammatory cytokines that promote systemic inflammatory response called acute phase response (APR) to stimulate hepatic production of acute phase proteins (APPs) such as fibrinogen (Fb), haptoglobin (Hp) and serum amyloid A (SAA). Fb, Hp and SAA concentrations increase in inflammatory and infectious conditions making them promising biomarkers to use in detection of calves with clinical or subclinical BRD. 150 calves aged 2-86 days, from 15 Estonian dairy farms were selected for the study concerning possible associations of Fb, Hp and SAA concentrations in calves with respiratory symptoms. APPs were used as markers for APR. Blood samples were collected from ten calves on each farm, five calves suspected to have APR (APR+) and five calves non-suspected to have APR (APR-). APP concentrations were examined, and multivariable linear mixed-effects regression models were used to analyse the associations. Increased Fb concentrations were associated with rectal temperature >39.5°C, increased respiratory rate >50 breaths/min and coughing. Increased Hp concentrations were in calves with rectal temperature of 39°C and above. Increased SAA concentrations were associated with rectal temperature >39.5°C and respiratory rate of 40-50 breaths/min. Thus, clinical respiratory symptoms promoted APR. Together with clinical examination of calves APPs could be used to detect calves with underlying APR and identify those in need of medical treatment.
Barefoot harness racing in Finnish trotters – a preliminary study of macroscopic findings and overall statistics from 2023
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2024) Hytönen, Petra Pauliina; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Mäki, Susanna (advisor)
The aim of this study was to evaluate the macroscopic hoof health of racing trotters in Finland. The hooves of partially or completely barefoot racing horses were tested with hoof testers after races for a positive reaction to pressure. Some of the horses were also tested before the race. Data was acquired from the online racing database (Heppa-järjestelmä) of the Central Organization for Trotting and Horse Breeding in Finland (Suomen Hippos ry) about the total numbers of horses racing annually without shoes and the results of routine visual hoof inspections performed after the races in 2023. Trainers and drivers were able to provide feedback on track surface conditions in the online racing database after races. The feedback obtained was analyzed for associations with positive reactions to hoof testers. The chief trackmaster in Finland was interviewed about the principles, as well as challenges, of track maintenance in the Nordic conditions. The prevalence of positive horses was higher at the beginning of summer season (June to mid-July, n = 105) than at the end of summer season (mid-July to September, n = 63). Horses that had performed 11 to 20 races during the previous year were less likely to react positively to hoof testers the next year (OR 0.19, 95% CI of OR 0.04; 0.96, p = 0.044). Positive horses were more likely to be disqualified in their following races after the examination day until the end of 2023 (OR 4.4, 95% CI of OR 0.98; 1.24, p = 0.035). Based on the results, horse trainers should be encouraged to monitor the sensitivity of their horses’ hooves regularly with hoof testers. This is an easy and cost-effective examination that can be performed by the trainers themselves. An educated decision to race the horse barefoot should be based on a comprehensive understanding of all possible risk factors, as well as benefits, of barefoot racing.
Changes in acute-phase proteins’ concentrations of neonatal ruminants in relation to colostrum and weight gain
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2022) Peetsalu, Kristel; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Tummeleht, Lea (advisor); Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences; Sauerwein, Helga (opponent)
Intensive farming has often led to increased spreading of pathogens in herds. After birth, neonatal ruminants are vulnerable to potential pathogens, as the syndesmochorial type of placentation prevents the transfer of antibodies from mother to foetus. Therefore, the vital immune protection will be obtained by passive immune transfer from colostrum. Colostrum contains various bioactive components, e.g. pro-inflammatory cytokines and acute-phase proteins, the effect of which on offspring is the focus of this research. A major role in protection against pathogens is played by the newborn ruminant's innate immune system, part of which is acute-phase reaction, during which the acute phase proteins are synthesised, mainly in the liver. Acute-phase proteins are used as quantitative sensitive inflammatory markers in medicine. In this thesis, the acute phase reaction during the neonatal period of reindeer calves, lambs and dairy calves was investigated by evaluating the acute phase proteins (serum amyloid A, haptoglobin, albumin, fibrinogen). Additionally, the influence of colostrum acute-phase proteins on the neonatal ruminants' acute phase reaction was evaluated. To identify the possible long-term effect of acute phase reaction in the neonatal period, the average daily weight gain in the 3, 4 and in 9 months was measured. During the neonatal period, there is a fluctuation in acute-phase proteins concentration, which is the lowest on the day of birth. The acute phase reaction on the first living week is influenced by colostrum acute phase proteins and pro-inflammatory cytokines. The acute phase reaction on the second and third week of life has a long-term influence on the animal’s growth. Knowledge of the early immunological development of a newborn ruminant allow providing a better growth environment, which means better welfare and preventing the spread of pathogens in intensive farming systems.
Clinical mastitis in Estonia: diagnosis, treatment efficacy and antimicrobial resistance of pathogens in Estonia
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2014) Kalmus, Piret; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Kask, Kalle (advisor)
Mastitis is a most common bovine disease, causing a large economic impact on dairy industry, due to increased treatment cost, decreased milk quality and unnecessary culling of dairy cows. The primary objective of present research was to evaluate clinical mastitis pathogens, antimicrobial resistance and treatment efficacy in Estonian dairy cows. The second objective was to find association between local inflammatory reaction in the udder and bacteriological diagnosis of clinical mastitis using PCR-based method. The clinical mastitis udder pathogens and risk factors in primiparous and multiparous dairy cows were evaluated in eleven Estonian dairy herds. During one-year study period, the incidence rate of clinical mastitis at calving was 6.4% among 1053 primiparous dairy cows. The study showed that housing system was not a significant risk factor for clinical mastitis of freshly calved heifers. Moving heifers to the calving facilities too late increased risk for clinical mastitis at parturition in tie-stall farms. The isolated udder pathogens in heifers did not differ significantly in tie-stall farms compared to freestall farms, but differences were found between heifers and multiparous cows at parturition. To estimate the distribution of udder pathogens and their antibiotic resistance in Estonia during the years 2007-2009, 3058 clinical mastitis samples from 190 farms and 5146 subclinical mastitis samples from 274 farms were investigated. Streptococcus uberis was the bacterium isolated most frequently (18.4%) from cases of clinical mastitis, followed by E. coli (15.9%) and Streptococcus agalactiae (11.9%). The bacteria that caused subclinical mastitis were mainly Staphyloccus aureus (20%) and coagulase-negative staphylococci (15.4%). Antimicrobial resistance was highly prevalent. The proportion of Staphylococcus aureus and CNS isolates that were resistant to penicillin was 61.4% and 38.5%, respectively. Among the E. coli isolates, ampicillin, streptomycin and tetracycline resistance were observed in 24.3%, 15.6% and 13.5%, respectively. The quantity of bacterial DNA in milk samples was associated with concentrations of APP and NAGase activity in the milk. These indicators reflect the inflammatory reaction in the mammary gland, and their concentrations increased with increasing severity of mastitis. Concentrations of APP and NAGase activity in milk significantly differed between different mastitis-causing bacterial species. Milk amyloid A and Hp concentrations and NAGase activity were significantly higher in samples with large quantities of bacterial DNA from Escherichia coli or Streptococcus dysgalactiae compared with milk samples not containing those species. Milk samples containing Corynebacterium bovis and coagulase-negative staphylococci had significantly lower concentrations of MAA and Hp and lower NAGase activity compared with samples where these species were not detected. The efficacy of benzylpenicillin for the treatment of clinical mastitis (n=140) caused by Gram-positive bacteria susceptible to penicillin in vitro was not affected by the route of drug administration. Altogether, 80.3% of the quarters with systemic treatment and 74.7% of the quarters with IMM treatment exhibited a clinical cure, and 54.1% and 55.7% exhibited a bacteriological cure, respectively.
Comparison of muscle enzyme values of Icelandic horses with other breeds
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2024) Kaipainen, Jenni; Leisson, Kätlin (advisor); Orro, Toomas (advisor)
Icelandic horses have been bred in isolation for over a millennium. Because of the isolation and the small genetic pool, there are some breed specific peculiarities, and some studies have shown that there are differences in the blood serum variables of Icelandic horses compared to other breeds. The aim of this study was to find out, if the muscle enzymes, creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) has different activity compared to those of ponies, Finnish horses, and other horse breeds. The study was made retrospectively, and muscle enzyme activity of 50 Icelandic horse was compared to those of 75 horses and ponies of different breeds. Horses with any clinical acute condition that is known to affect these values (such as colic or acute lameness), and horses under 1 year old were left out of this study. The results showed, that sex and age did not have effect on the muscle enzyme activity (p-values > 0.502). There was no statistically significant difference in CK and AST activity between Icelandic horses, ponies, Finnish horses, and other horse breeds (p-values 0.460 and 0.171).
Contribution to the diagnosis and prognosis of canine cardiac disease through electrodiagnostics and diagnostic imaging
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2020) Mõtsküla, Paul Fridtjof; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Fuentes, Virginia Luis (advisor); Connolly, David (advisor); Viitmaa, Ranno (advisor); Wess, Gerhard (opponent)
Cardiomyopathy is defined as the heart muscle disease, leading to myocardial dysfunction. The World Health Organisation (WHO) classification includes dilated, hypertrophic, restrictive, arrhythmogenic right ventricular (ARVC) and unclassified cardiomyopathies. The study of cardiomyopathies in animals also contributes to a better understanding of the underlying pathophysiological processes and mechanisms of human cardiomyopathies. Cardiomyopathies account for a large proportion of overall morbidity and mortality in canine population with an estimated prevalence of 0.05%. The prevalence of dilated cardiomyopathy in certain dog breeds can be as high as 24-58%. ARVC has been described mainly in Boxer dogs, but the exact prevalence is not known due to the lack of definitive diagnostic criteria. The current study provides valuable prognostic information for the Boxer dogs with suspected ARVC that can be gained from 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiography (Holter monitoring) and from a single echocardiographic measurement that can be easily obtained during routine echocardiographic examination. A large difference between various dog breeds exists in prevalence and progression of different subtypes of cardiomyopathies. To investigate the extent of these differences, the prevalence of cardiac disease in another large dog breed with known predisposition to heart diseases, the Dogue de Bordeaux, was analysed. The previous information on the cardiac disease in this breed is mainly based on single case reports or small case series. The current study gives a broader overview of the heart diseases in this breed. Cardiac magnetic resonance tomography has a very important role in the diagnosis of human cardiomyopathies and the heart diseases in general but has not been widely used in veterinary medicine. The current study also contributes to the knowledge by a comparative analysis of the cardiac volumetric measurements acquired by echocardiography and magnetic resonance tomography.
Cryptosporidium spp. prevalence, relationship with the general inflammatory response, faecal microbiota and halofuginone lactate treatment in calves
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2023) Dorbek-Kolin, Elisabeth; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences; Adjou, Karim Tarik (opponent)
Calf diarrhoea is a common problem in cattle herds, and it has many causative agents including the protozoan parasites of the genus Cryptosporidium. This parasite is detected worldwide and has clinical importance particularly in pre-weaned calves. The most common species in calves is Cryptosporidium parvum. In this thesis, the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in Estonian calves was determined, which species of this parasite were shed with faeces, and which subtypes of C. parvum were shed. Additionally, associations of Cryptosporidium species, general inflammatory response, and faecal microbiota were studied. The effects of treatment with halofuginone lactate were evaluated. Cryptosporidium spp. are widely spread among Estonian calves during their first two months of life. In this thesis, three species were detected, and ten subtypes of C. parvum were described, one of them being novel. Shedding of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts was most common during the second week of life. The general inflammatory response was measured through blood serum concentrations of acute phase proteins (specifically serum amyloid A and haptoglobin), that are synthesised in liver as a result of pathogen invasion or tissue damage. The more Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts the calves shed in their faeces, the higher the concentration of these proteins in the blood, and the lower the microbial diversity in faeces. Some bacterial genera in faeces were positively associated with the serum concentrations of the acute phase proteins (e.g., Fusobacterium), or negatively with cryptosporidiosis (e.g., Ruminiclostridium 9). Halofuginone lactate treatment decreased mortality of calves and delayed the oocyst shedding. Understanding the interactions of Cryptosporidium spp., host responses, and the microbiota of the calf can help to comprehend the development of the calf as a whole. Based on this knowledge, factors benefiting the welfare and performance of production animals could be found and possibly influenced.
Distribution of intervertebral disc extrusions in dogs: a retrospective case series study
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2025) Jääskö, Anne; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Jeserevics, Janis (advisor); Baltkajs, Janis (advisor); Chair of Clinical Veterinary Medicine
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a prevalent neurological disorder in dogs, particularly affecting chondrodystrophic breeds. The condition results from disc degeneration and herniation, leading to painful spinal cord compression and neurological deficits. This retrospective case series describes the clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of 55 dogs diagnosed with intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE) at Aisti Animal Hospital between September and October 2024. The patient data was obtained from Aisti Animal Hospital’s ProvetCloud and analysed with Microsoft Word. All dogs had magnetic resonance imaging done for improved diagnostic accuracy. Most of the disc extrusions were located between vertebrae T3 and S3. Dachshunds were the most commonly affected breed, making up 42% of cases. The most frequent neurological signs were paraparesis and paraplegia and the most common neuroanatomical localization was found to be between T12 and T13 vertebrae. Surgical treatment using minihemilaminectomy was performed in 62% out of the study group patient cases, with generally good recovery. Conservative treatment included restriction of movement, analgesia, and physiotherapy, and was chosen as a treatment with 32% of the patients. Three individual case studies illustrated the range of outcomes, including one recurrence. The study findings are consistent with existing research on breed predisposition, clinical presentation, and treatment outcomes in dogs with IVDE.
Epidemiology, impact on herd health and control of bovine herpesvirus 1 in Estonian dairy cattle herds
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2012) Raaperi, Kerli; Viltrop, Arvo (advisor); Orro, Toomas (advisor)
The objective of the present doctoral thesis was to assess the herd-level and within-herd prevalence of bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) infection in Estonian dairy cattle and estimate the sensitivity and specificity of the ELISA test for bulk tank milk (BTM) testing in detecting infected herds. The aim was to determine the risk factors related to high prevalence of the infection in herds and presence of BHV-1 among youngstock. We also aimed to clarify the role of BHV-1 in the incidence of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in different age groups and evaluate the association between prevalence of BHV-1 and herd reproduction parameters. The last objectives were to assess the efficacy of vaccination programmes in lowering the seroprevalence of BHV-1 glycoprotein E (gE) within the herd as well as to follow the dynamics of the infection in non-vaccinating herds with uninfected replacement heifers. Prevalence study was accomplished between 2006 to 2008. One hundred and three (64 BHV-1 infected ja 39 uninfected) dairy cattle herds with more than 20 cows and with different size were selected for the study. In each of the selected herds, serum samples from a representative number of cows, and youngstock older than 6 months, were analyzed for BHV-1 antibodies. The source population used to estimate the herd level prevalence of BHV-1 consisted of all 1,205 market-oriented dairy herds. Vaccination programmes with inactivated gE marker vaccines to eradicate BHV-1 were elaborated for seven dairy herds. Five BHV-1-infected dairy herds, which had uninfected heifers (prevalence up to 5 per cent), were selected to monitor the course of the infection without control strategies. To monitor the efficacy of the vaccination, and changes in seroprevalence during the control programme, a longitudinal two year surveillance programme was carried out in those herds. Due to the moderate sensitivity of the BTM ELISA test (76.5%) it should be used with caution when making decisions about the infection status of a herd. Lower cut-off in the ELISA blocking reaction might be justified when using BTM testing in BHV-1 control programmes to be able to discover more infected herds with only a minimal loss in specificity. Twenty two percent of Estonian market-oriented dairy cattle farms are infected with BHV-1. When elaborating control programmes most of the resources should be directed to herds with more than 100 cows as those farms contain the main population infected with BHV-1. As within-herd prevalence of BHV-1 is generally high in larger herds vaccination with gE marker vaccines combined with eradication of gE positive animals is the most appropriate way to eradicate the virus in those herds. Where the within-herd prevalence is low culling of the seropositive animals without vaccination would be most cost-effective. Youngstock tested negative in 36.5% of infected herds. These herds are in more favourable situation when applying an eradication programme because it is possible to raise a BHV-1-free generation from their own herd and vaccinate youngstock just before introduction to the cow house, as long as the farmer can provide isolation facilities. The duration of vaccination programme is shorter when replacement animals are free of infection reducing the cost of eradication. In herds under control programmes it is important to be aware of the important risk factors that are related to spread of the infection within a herd. In BHV-1 positive herds more attention should be paid to possible iatrogenic transmission via the veterinarian and inseminator, and within-herd biosecurity measures should be kept in mind. Infection with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) may also be a predisposing factor for more effective viral spread. Although several infectious and management-related factors are associated with BRD in dairy calves and heifers, BHV-1 and BVDV had significant impact on the manifestation of clinical respiratory disease. BVDV contributed to the occurrence of respiratory disease signs in older youngstock. Bovine respiratory syncytial virus was related to clinical respiratory disease in adult dairy cattle. The use of control measures for these viruses may reduce the incidence of respiratory disease and improve herd health. In herds with poor reproductive performance, BHV-1 should be considered as one of the infectious risk factors, and the eradication of this virus may improve the reproductive performance of the herd. Vaccination with inactivated marker vaccine is a secure method to stop virus circulation within a herd as long as the vaccination protocol is followed precisely. On the other hand, in some herds the virus circulation may end by itself for longer periods, which may lead to self-clearance of the herd from the virus. However, aiming for eradication in herds with uninfected young-stock leaving animals unvaccinated has an unpredictable outcome – virus circulation may remain retarded or the virus may reactivate and cause an epidemic in the herd.
Factors that mare owners use to select the stallion for their mare
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2024) Hämäläinen, Jenni; Kask, Kalle (advisor); Orro, Toomas (advisor)
Horses have been selectively bred over the centuries for different purposes which has caused changes in the morphology, physiology, behaviour and performance of many breeds. The breeding of work horses for agricultural and forestry purposes has decreased and breeding is more focused on producing horses for different sporting activities and hobbies. Selection of horses for breeding has been mainly made based on the pedigree, performance results and temperament of the horse. Although, depending on the use, different breeds have been bred forward looking out for specific traits like speed, size or colour. This has entailed the decreasing of genetic variation and increasing of genetic mutations. Breeders' choices have been modified by the breeds and have had far reaching consequences. In the case of the sport horse breeding money – driven business will guide the breeding choices, whereas small scale breeder could have more options to choose a stallion that respond to his/her personal preferences. In Finland, the horse breeding tradition is quite young, but in recent years breeding has been focused on a wider area, different disciplines and more specific targets. Besides the professional breeders usually focused on sport horses, in Finland there are many smaller breeders who do not have such a clear breeding plan, or they are making the foals for their own purposes only. The online questionnaire made for Finnish mare owners examined the most important factors they use in stallion selection but also the planned breeding site, technique and possible breeding applications they use in the decision making. All the breeding orientations valued the conformation and size, pedigree and the temper of the stallion to be the most important traits. Competition results, studbook scores and progeny also play an important role whereas genetic diversity and inbreeding had quite a small effect on breeding choices. Insemination on the stud farm with chilled semen was found to be the most popular option. In breeding decision making breeders used the information found in databases of the breeding associations and studbooks.
Food allergens in horses diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2024) Koponen, Veera Emilia; Orro, Toomas (advisor)
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in horses is a complex gastrointestinal disease with an unknown pathogenesis, presenting with various non-specific clinical signs such as lethargy, poor performance and weight loss. The aim of the present study was to describe the demographic characteristics of horses diagnosed with IBD, most common food allergens and associated factors, as well as the most commonly utilized information sources when seeking information about food allergies in horses. The study was a descriptive study performed by analyzing data from an online questionnaire published in several social media groups, targeting equestrians interested in the equine gastrointestinal system, gathered over a four week period between February and March 2024. 131 responses were analyzed in the results. The results reveal the study population to consist of more geldings than mares or stallions. Most were diagnosed with IBD between the age of six to ten years. The main food allergens were lucern, oat, barley, wheat and soy. Majority had noticed a significant or moderate improvement in the clinical signs of IBD after diet modification. Veterinarian, support groups and social media are the most often utilized sources of information when seeking information regarding food allergies in horses. In conclusion, the study highlights the possible pathogenesis between dietary allergens and IBD, although further research is needed.
Hoof problems of captive markhors (Capra falconeri) in European zoos
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2025) Tähtinen, Katri Maria; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Nihtilä, Heini (advisor); Mustonen, Eeva (advisor); Chair of Clinical Veterinary Medicine
Hoof care in exotic ungulates presents several challenges in captivity, particularly for browsing species such as markhors (Capra falconeri), whose natural diets are difficult to replicate. In ruminants, hoof health is closely linked to nutritional balance, making dietary management a key factor in preventing related disorders. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and types of hoof problems observed in markhors housed in European zoos. An online survey was distributed, covering topics such as feeding practices, management routines, hoof care protocols, and any observed hoof-related issues. Of the responding zoos (n = 15), 12 reported performing hoof trimming, with 7 doing so regularly one to three times per year. Hoof-related medical issues were reported by 6 (40%) of the institutions, with the most common problems being hoof overgrowth and laxity in the fetlock joints. These findings suggest that hoof issues may affect the welfare of captive markhors, highlighting the need for further research into the role of diet, improved diagnostic tools, and species-appropriate hoof care strategies.
Ibuprofen intoxications in dogs: case series study
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2025) Saukko, Siiri; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Chair of Clinical Veterinary Medicine
Ibuprofen is one of the most frequently encountered intoxications in dogs, because ibuprofen is a common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used in humans. The clinical presentation of ibuprofen intoxication varies from mild gastrointestinal signs to possibly lethal consequences of multi organ failure. The prognosis is mainly dependent on the ingested dose of ibuprofen. Other factors include the health status of the patients and the veterinary care provided. The aim of the thesis was to analyze the contributing factors in ibuprofen toxicity in dogs by describing the clinical findings in patients with ibuprofen toxicity. Thesis included nine cases of dogs that had ingested ibuprofen and visited the Small Animal Clinic of Estonian University of Life Sciences. Four of the patients were asymptomatic (44 %), and the most common clinical sign was vomiting. No severe complications or systemic signs were reported. All patients were discharged from the hospital, thus making the prognosis promising after ibuprofen intoxication. In conclusion, collection of the anamnesis including the time of ingestion and amount of ibuprofen is important when deciding the treatment of individual patient.
Impact of Gastrointestinal Protozoan Infections on the Acute Phase Response in Neonatal Ruminants
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2019) Niine, Tarmo; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Lassen, Brian (advisor); Lepenies, Bernd (opponent)
After birth, neonatal ruminants go through crucial and sensitive period of rapid development and growth. During this period, they may interact with variety of microorganisms found in the surrounding environment. It would be beneficial for both the farmer and the veterinarian to have general biomarkers, useful in managing of this adaptation process. Such a tool could help in improving the prediction of the animals’ performance in the herd. The interactions between the ruminant and infectious agents can damage tissues in the host and trigger the innate immune response starting with the acute phase response (APR). This process can lead to an increase or decrease of specific acute phase proteins (APPs) in the blood serum. Fluctuations in concentrations of APPs may serve as proxies for assessing the inflammatory processes during the adaptation period of newborn animal. Particularly when the animal is transitioning from a low microbe environment in the uterus to the high microbe environment of the extrauterine life. In addition, there is growing evidence, that strong APR in the first weeks of life could influence the success as a production animal, such as the growth rate. The studies presented in the dissertation were longitudinal studies and each study focused on different ruminant species: reindeer calves, dairy calves and lambs. In each study, the focus was on the neonatal period (first three weeks of age), during which blood and faecal samples were collected and the growth rate was measured. In the study of lambs, a significant association with APPs was found at second week of life and the growth rate. Similar result was seen dairy calves that had an APR during the neonatal period, which had a negative association with the growth rate in older age. Additionally, Cryptosporidium infections was associated as a positive effect with APR in dairy calves. In reindeer calves, the APR was had a positive association with Giardia infections. In conclusion, current results offers promise of developing more precise indicators for measuring the outcome of the adaptation process of the immune system during the neonatal period.
Neonatal effects on health and performance of dairy cows
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2024) Loch, Marina; Orro, Toomas (advisor); Niine, Tarmo (advisor); Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences; Trevisi, Erminio (opponent)
ABSTRACT. During the neonatal period, in other words, during the first three weeks of life, mammals have to adapt to their new surroundings where they encounter for example microorganisms. Ruminants rely on colostrum, the antibody-rich first milk of their mothers, to acquire passive immunity. Colostrum also contains other immunologically active components, which can influence the immune system of the neonates, including proteins (so called acute phase proteins) that act as very first responders to a threat, which is shown in this thesis. As the immune system matures and the intestinal microbiota colonises the host, interactions between the two can affect the future success of the animal. The concentrations of acute phase proteins, which are produced in the liver during the inflammatory response, can be measured and used to monitor inflammation. Their concentrations during the first month of life are associated with future weight gain of ruminants. In this thesis, associations of the protein concentrations during the first three weeks of life were furthermore found with fertility measures and health of dairy cows in their first lactation. They were then used as research tools to uncover relationships between faecal microbiota composition and future performance. Certain bacterial genera, such as Peptostreptococcus, were found to increase inflammatory response and have negative effects on future performance. Others, for example Collinsella, are associated with a lower inflammatory response and better performance in the future. These results show that acute phase proteins can be used to decipher the relationship between microbiota and host, and that the composition of the intestinal microbiota in the neonatal period has long-lasting effects on dairy heifers. This knowledge can be used to influence dairy cow performance by improving their microbiota.
Prevalence of feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus in shelter cats in Estonia and in Finland: retrospective survey from 2019-2023
(Eesti Maaülikool, 2025) Åman, Annika Rosa Katariina; Jeremejeva, Julia (advisor); Orro, Toomas (advisor); Chair of Clinical Veterinary Medicine
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are infectious diseases of felines. These retroviral diseases occur worldwide and cause immune suppression in domestic and wild cats. These diseases are mainly transmitted via saliva when cats fight, and therefore older intact male cats having access outdoors, are in higher risk for having these infections. Diagnosis is mainly based on point-of-care (POC) tests taken from blood. There is no effective vaccine available in Europe, but testing cats with higher risks is important for detecting the FIV- or FeLV- positive cats. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence of FIV and FeLV in shelter cats in Estonia and in Finland with retrospective survey. Information from 2296 FIV and FeLV tested cats from years 2019-2023 was received from 5 different animal welfare associations and animal shelter. 912 cats from Finland and 1384 cats from Estonia. The results from this study found out high prevalence of FIV (19.73%) in Estonia (95% CI 17.66; 21.92), where 273 cats were tested positive. Prevalence of FIV in Finland was (1.56%) where 14 cats were tested positive (95% CI 0.84; 2.56). Prevalence of FeLV was 0.11% (95% CI 0.0; 0.61) in Finland (1/912) and 1.30% (95% CI 0.77; 2.05) in Estonia (18/1384). Previous studies have given results with low prevalence of FIV in northern Europe, therefore further studies with bigger population size and confirming the test result with other test methods would be beneficial for finding out the real situation of these transmissible diseases of cats in Estonia and in Finland.

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