Making the case for developing alternative lameness scoring systems for dairy goats

摘要

Lameness is a behavioural indicator of pain that negatively affects dairy ruminants' health and welfare. Lameness is generally assessed by subjective methods, based on the observation of the animal's behaviour, using numerical rating scales (NRSs) - the most common scoring system - and visual analogue scales (VASs). A NRS consists of a set of different categories with descriptive definitions associated to each category. A VAS is a continuous scale, generally illustrated by a horizontal line, with descriptors as anchors on both ends of the line. Distinct drawbacks have been associated with both types of scales. NRSs have been associated with a reduced sensitivity to capture variations in lower levels of lameness that may adversely impact animals' welfare assessments. VASs are considered too subjective and associated with low user-acceptance.