Factors associated with mortality of geriatric horses in the United Kingdom.
Abstract: Geriatric horses (aged≥15 years) now represent a substantial proportion of the equine population, yet mortality rates for aged horses in the UK have not previously been described. Although post-mortem studies have provided some data regarding specific causes of death, "old age" is a common owner-reported reason for euthanasia of adult horses, indicating further elucidation of reasons for death or euthanasia is required for the geriatric equine population. The objective of this cohort study was to describe mortality rates, causes of death or euthanasia and factors associated with mortality in geriatric horses and ponies. Veterinary registered horses randomly selected for a cross-sectional questionnaire survey on geriatric health were enrolled in the cohort study (n=908). Follow-up information was obtained over an 18-month period via telephone questionnaires and mortality questionnaires, providing data regarding reasons for death or euthanasia, were completed for 118 cases of mortality. Overall and stratified mortality rates were calculated and Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate risk factors associated with mortality. The majority (94%) of mortalities were euthanised, most frequently due to lameness (24%) and colic (21%). Veterinary advice was important in owner decision making regarding euthanasia of cases of colic or other acute illnesses, while poor quality of life was considered an important factor where euthanasia was due to chronic diseases or lameness. Overall mortality rate was 11.1 (95% C.I. 9.2-13.2) per 100 horse-years at risk, with the mortality rate of animals >30 years of age over five times the rate in horses aged 15-19 years. On multivariable analysis, increasing age was associated with increasing mortality and Cob/Cob crossbreeds and Thoroughbred/Thoroughbred crossbreeds had an increased risk of mortality. Horses considered to be underweight had a greater risk of mortality than those in good condition. Increasing number of owner-reported clinical signs and the degree to which pain was reported to limit normal daily activities were associated with increased risk of mortality. The results of this study provide useful information about rates and factors associated with mortality in geriatric horses in the UK, which should be relevant to veterinary surgeons involved in the treatment of aged horses.
Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Publication Date: 2011-07-05 PubMed ID: 21733586DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2011.06.002Google Scholar: Lookup
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- Journal Article
- Research Support
- Non-U.S. Gov't
Summary
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The study explores the mortality rates, causes of death or euthanasia, and factors influencing the death of elderly horses (15 years and beyond) in the UK. The factors considered include age, breed, weight, and health conditions.
Study Design and Population
- The study was a cohort study involving 908 horses aged 15 years and older, enrolled through a cross-sectional questionnaire survey on geriatric health conducted by veterinarians.
- Information was gathered over 18 months using telephone questionnaires and mortality questionnaires, which provided insights into the reasons for death or euthanasia.
- Statistical analyses were performed to understand risk factors associated with mortality. Mortality rates were calculated based on the number of deaths per 100 horse-years at risk.
Main Findings
- The majority of the cases (94%) resulted in euthanasia, primarily due to lameness (24%) and colic (21%).
- For acute illnesses like colic, veterinary advice was significant in the owner’s decision to euthanize their horses. For chronic diseases or lameness, the poor quality of life was a critical determinant for euthanasia.
- The overall mortality rate was 11.1 per 100 horse-years at risk. Elderly horses aged above 30 years had a mortality rate five times greater than horses aged 15-19 years.
Factors Influencing Mortality
- The study found age as a significant factor for mortality, with the risk increasing with age.
- Among breeds, Cob/Cob crossbreeds and Thoroughbred/Thoroughbred crossbreeds had higher chances of mortality.
- Body condition was an important factor as well. Horses considered underweight had a higher risk of mortality than those in good condition.
- The risk of mortality was also associated with increasing numbers of owner-reported clinical signs and the degree to which pain was reported to limit normal daily activities.
Significance of the Study
- The study provides useful data on the mortality rates and risk factors of death in the geriatric equine population in the UK. The findings can be used by veterinarians to establish better practices for the management and treatment of elderly horses.
Cite This Article
APA
Ireland JL, Clegg PD, McGowan CM, Platt L, Pinchbeck GL.
(2011).
Factors associated with mortality of geriatric horses in the United Kingdom.
Prev Vet Med, 101(3-4), 204-218.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prevetmed.2011.06.002 Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston CH64 7TE, UK. jo.ireland@aht.org.uk
MeSH Terms
- Age Factors
- Animals
- Cohort Studies
- Cross-Sectional Studies
- Horses / physiology
- Mortality
- Proportional Hazards Models
- Regression Analysis
- Surveys and Questionnaires
- United Kingdom / epidemiology
Citations
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