Swine

IceTag™ Devices: Feasibility for Measuring Activity and Postures in Gilts

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Abstract

The objectives of this project were 1) explore the feasibility of securing the IceTag™ device on sexually mature gilts, 2) determine effects of IceTag™ device on gilt behavior, and 3) compare IceTag™ data from gilts against the gold standard-behavioral data manually collected by a trained observer. Four individually housed bred gilts (~200kg) were used. The treatments were as follows: Gilt 1 – both hind legs; Gilt 2 – right hind leg; Gilt 3 – both hind legs; Gilt 4 – left hind leg. Gilts were monitored at least twice daily for signs of inflammation, lameness and lesion development. Behavioral and postural data were collected from video by a single trained observer. A minor lesion (redness) was noted above the IceTag™ on gilt 4. The gilts did not display acute signs of discomfort or distress when the device and bandages were placed on the leg since gilt lay or stood quietly during the procedure. The correlation between the IceTag™ devices and the behavioral observations were high for standing duration, with the exception of gilt 4. In conclusion, the IceTag™ devices correlated well with behavioral observations. Further research is needed for practical and safe methods to secure the device on the swine leg when placement is required for several days.

Keywords: Animal Science, Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, ASL R3013

How to Cite:

Parsons, R. L., Millman, S. T. & Johnson, A. K., (2015) “IceTag™ Devices: Feasibility for Measuring Activity and Postures in Gilts”, Iowa State University Animal Industry Report 12(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/ans_air-180814-1330