Challenges of thermal nociceptive threshold testing in the donkey.

Objective: To evaluate a thermal nociceptive threshold (TNT) testing device in the donkey, and the influence of potential confounding factors on TNTs.

Animals: Two groups (Group 1 and Group 2) of eight castrated male donkeys aged 4-9 years, weighing 105-170 kg.

Methods: TNTs were measured by heating a thermal probe on skin until an end-point behaviour (threshold temperature) or a cut-out temperature (51 °C) was reached.

The influence of various confounding factors on mechanical nociceptive thresholds in the donkey.

Objective: To evaluate a mechanical nociceptive threshold (MNT) testing device in the donkey, and to investigate the influence of potential confounders on MNTs generated.

Study Design: Prospective, randomised.

Animals: Sixteen castrated male donkeys aged 4-9 years, weighing 105-170 kg.