Reduction of the occurrence of incorrect stunning and the occurrence of reflexes and reactions in cattle after pneumatically powered captive‐bolt stunning in comparison with cartridge‐fired captive‐bolt stunning. (26th April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kaluza, Michal; Vecerek, Vladimir; Voslarova, Eva; Kamenik, Josef; Konvalinova, Jarmila; Valkova, Lenka; Takacova, Daniela
• Is Part Of: Animal science journal. Volume 93:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2022-04-26
• Subjects: bulls and cows -- reflexes and reactions -- repeat stunning -- stun shot deviations -- welfare; Animal culture -- Periodicals; Livestock -- Periodicals; 636
• DOI: 10.1111/asj.13728
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1344-3941

Abstract

Abstract: In this study, the occurrence of repeat stunning, deviations in placement and direction of stun shots, and the occurrence of reflexes/reactions following stunning with a pneumatically powered captive‐bolt stunner in comparison with a cartridge‐fired captive‐bolt stunner in cattle were assessed. Repeat stunning and deviations in placement and direction of the stun shots were less frequent ( p < 0.01) with the use of a pneumatic stunner in all cattle. The rate of repeat stunning and deviation from the ideal place and direction of stun shots were lower (5.81%, 24.75%, and 9.60% of all animals, respectively) when a pneumatic stunner was used in comparison with cartridge‐fired captive bolt (18.32%, 34.03%, and 47.38% of all animals, respectively). The stunning quality was assessed on the basis of evaluation of signs observed following the stun shot. A pneumatic stunning resulted in a significant reduction of occurrence of signs particularly in bulls in comparison to cows, for which a cartridge‐fired stunner already provides an adequate stunning. Our study provides evidence that pneumatic stunning has the potential to be a more effective method than cartridge‐fired stunning from the viewpoint of the welfare of slaughtered animals. Pneumatic stunning ensures a high quality of stunning in both bulls and cows.