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Genotype-by-Environment Interactions and Response to Selection for Milk Production Traits in Lacaune Sheep from Greece and France
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Genome-Wide Association Study Reveals Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Associated with Tail Length and Tail Kinks in Piglets
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Characterizing the Roles of Life Stage and Season on the Prevalence of Select Viral Pathogens in Acheta domesticus Crickets on a Commercial Cricket Farm in the United States
Journal Description
Veterinary Sciences
Veterinary Sciences
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on veterinary sciences published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, PubAg, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Veterinary Sciences) / CiteScore - Q2 (General Veterinary)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 21.2 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.0 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.2 (2023)
Latest Articles
Mechanism of GBE Combined with TP on the Effect of AMPK/SREBP-1C/ACC Pathway on Lipid Metabolism in Heat-Stressed Broiler Liver
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050424 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2025
Abstract
The liver accounts for almost 95% of lipid metabolism in broilers and serves as a crucial metabolic organ. Stress, which occurs when broilers are exposed to a heated environment, inhibits liver metabolism, significantly impacting their growth. This experiment investigated the combination of GBE
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The liver accounts for almost 95% of lipid metabolism in broilers and serves as a crucial metabolic organ. Stress, which occurs when broilers are exposed to a heated environment, inhibits liver metabolism, significantly impacting their growth. This experiment investigated the combination of GBE with TP to improve hepatic lipid metabolism in heat-stressed broiler chickens by inhibiting the AMPK/SREBP-1C/ACC pathway. Three hundred broilers were reared usually until 21 days and randomly divided into six groups, namely CON group, HS group, TP group (300 mg/kg), GBE100 group (GBE100 mg/kg + TP300 mg/kg), GBE300 group (GBE 300 mg/kg + TP 300 mg/kg), GBE600 (600 mg/kg + TP 300 mg/kg) groups, where the CON group was kept at 23 °C, and the HS group and the TP, GBE100, GBE300, and GBE600 groups of each medication group were kept at 35 ± 2 °C for 10 h per day. Liver and serum samples were extracted at 28 and 42 days of age, respectively. The results showed that, at 42 days of age, the GBE600 group exhibited significantly superior performance to the HS group in ADG, ADFI, and F/G (p < 0.01). Serum TG, TC, and LDL-C levels were significantly lower (p < 0.01), while HDL-C levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05). Additionally, the mRNA expression levels of LKB1, AMPK, SREBP-1C, and ACC were markedly reduced (p < 0.01). In contrast, the mRNA expression of HSL and CPT1A was significantly elevated (p < 0.01), indicating that the GBE600 was more effective in mitigating heat stress in broiler chickens at 42 days of age. It showed that the GBE600 was more effective in ameliorating heat stress in broilers at 42 days of age, thus providing an ethical basis for ameliorating the flocculation of hepatic lipid metabolism in heat-stressed broilers.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Physiology, Pharmacology, and Toxicology)
Open AccessArticle
Identification of Naturally Occurring Inhabitants of Vaginal Microbiota in Cows and Determination of Their Antibiotic Sensitivity
by
Zsóka Várhidi, Viktor Jurkovich, Péter Sátorhelyi, Balázs Erdélyi, Orsolya Palócz and György Csikó
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050423 - 29 Apr 2025
Abstract
The vaginal microbiota plays a crucial role in bovine reproductive health in the periparturient period. This study aimed to characterize the naturally occurring bacterial species in the vaginal microbiome of healthy Holstein Frisian cows and evaluate their antibiotic sensitivity. Vaginal samples were collected
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The vaginal microbiota plays a crucial role in bovine reproductive health in the periparturient period. This study aimed to characterize the naturally occurring bacterial species in the vaginal microbiome of healthy Holstein Frisian cows and evaluate their antibiotic sensitivity. Vaginal samples were collected from 44 healthy cows on three dairy farms. A total of 54 bacterial species were detected, with Gram-positive bacteria comprising 87% of the isolates. The most prevalent genera were Bacillus, Streptococcus, and Staphylococcus. Antibiotic susceptibility tests indicated that some isolates carried resistance genes, but most remained sensitive to commonly used antibiotics. The average vaginal mucosa pH was 7.2. These findings provide valuable insights into the diversity of vaginal microbiota of healthy dairy cows. Understanding the bacterial composition and antibiotic susceptibility can support reproductive health management and prudent use of antibiotics in dairy herds.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bovine Uterine Infection)
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Open AccessArticle
In Silico Comparison of Two Kirschner Wire Arrangements for Stabilization of Femoral Capital Physeal Fractures
by
Logan M. Scheuermann, Daniel D. Lewis and Richard B. Evans
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 422; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050422 - 29 Apr 2025
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Despite advancements in surgical techniques, including the utilization of intra-operative fluoroscopy and custom surgical guides, intra-articular implant placement during the pinning of capital physeal fractures can occur and may result in catastrophic complications. Our objective in this study was to compare the epiphyseal
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Despite advancements in surgical techniques, including the utilization of intra-operative fluoroscopy and custom surgical guides, intra-articular implant placement during the pinning of capital physeal fractures can occur and may result in catastrophic complications. Our objective in this study was to compare the epiphyseal purchase afforded by a linear and triangular pattern of Kirschner wires for stabilizing femoral capital physeal fractures. Archived pelvic limb computed tomography scans of 16 skeletally immature dogs were obtained, from which virtual femoral models were created. Separate linear and triangular arrangements of three virtual 1.6 mm Kirschner wires were centered on the thickest region of the proximal epiphysis. The length of each Kirschner wire implanted within the proximal femoral epiphysis was measured. Kirschner wire placement in triangular and linear patterns resulted in a mean epiphyseal purchase for each wire of 8.4 mm and 8.0 mm, respectively. The cumulative Kirschner wire purchase was greater with the triangular pattern (p = 0.004). The mean difference in the cumulative wire purchase was 1.3 mm. The use of a triangular Kirschner wire pattern resulted in greater implant purchase within the epiphysis compared to the linear pattern. The triangular Kirschner wire pattern may reduce the risk of intra-articular implant placement by more closely centering the wires within the thickest region of the epiphysis.
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Open AccessCommunication
The Industrial Residue of Andiroba (Carapa sp.): A Promising Source of Natural Acaricides Against Dermacentor nitens (Acari: Ixodidae)
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Daniela Bianchi, Raidel Reis dos Santos, Poliana Leão Peleja, Ana Beatriz Barbosa de Sousa, Marcelo da Silva Evangelista, José Sousa de Almeida Júnior, Lauro Euclides Soares Barata, Waldiney Pires Moraes and Antonio Humberto Hamad Minervino
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050421 - 29 Apr 2025
Abstract
Dermacentor nitens (tropical horse tick) is a tick species commonly found parasitizing horses and other equids in the Amazon region, causing economic losses. Currently, tick control is based on chemical acaricides, usually in a power formulation for topical use. However, its indiscriminate use
[...] Read more.
Dermacentor nitens (tropical horse tick) is a tick species commonly found parasitizing horses and other equids in the Amazon region, causing economic losses. Currently, tick control is based on chemical acaricides, usually in a power formulation for topical use. However, its indiscriminate use results in the emergence of resistant tick lineages. Several plant compounds have been tested for their acaricide activity. In the Amazon, several plants are used for oil extraction, resulting in the production of solid residue (waste) that may contain chemical molecules with biological activities. Thus, we aimed to test the in vitro acaricidal potential of the ethanolic extract of the industrial residue of andiroba (Carapa sp.) against D. nitens. In a larval immersion test (LIT), D. nitens larvae were tested with 2.5%, 5%, and 10% andiroba extract concentrations in three replicates. Subsequently, the envelopes were kept in a BOD chamber (28 °C ± 1 °C; 80% ± 5% humidity) for 24 h. At the end of this period, live and dead larvae were counted, and efficiency was calculated from the mortality rate caused by the extract and corrected by the Abbot formula. In the three repetitions, the andiroba extract at a concentration of 5% caused the death of 100% of the larvae. At concentrations of 2.5% and 10%, they caused the death of, respectively, 12.38% (±3.5%) and 69.79% (±7.98%) of the larvae. These results indicate that the extract from the industrial residue from the production of andiroba oil has acaricidal activity. It is concluded that the solid waste from industrial andiroba oil extraction has the potential for the development of natural acaricides against D. nitens.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)
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Open AccessArticle
Neural Network-Aided Milk Somatic Cell Count Increase Prediction
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Sára Ágnes Nagy, István Csabai, Tamás Varga, Bettina Póth-Szebenyi, György Gábor and Norbert Solymosi
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050420 - 29 Apr 2025
Abstract
Subclinical mastitis (SM) is the most economically damaging yet often visually undetectable disease of dairy cows. Early detection and treatment can reduce the loss caused by the disease; thus, the continuous improvement of SM diagnostic methods is necessary. Although milk’s somatic cell count
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Subclinical mastitis (SM) is the most economically damaging yet often visually undetectable disease of dairy cows. Early detection and treatment can reduce the loss caused by the disease; thus, the continuous improvement of SM diagnostic methods is necessary. Although milk’s somatic cell count (SCC) is commonly measured for diagnostic purposes, its direct determination is not widely used in everyday practice. The primary objective of our work was to investigate whether the predictive value of SM diagnostics can be improved by training artificial neural networks (ANNs) on data generated using typical conventional milking systems. The best ANN classifier had a sensitivity of 0.54 and a specificity of 0.77, which is comparable to performances of various California Mastitis Tests (CMT) found in the literature. Combining two diagnostic tests, ANN and CMT, we concluded that the positive predictive value could be up to 50% higher than the value provided by the individual CMT. While implementing CMT is a labor-intensive process on herd-level, in milking machines where milk properties or milk yield data can be measured automatically, similar to our work, SCC-increase predictions for all individuals could be obtained daily basis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminant Mastitis: Therapies and Control)
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Open AccessArticle
Lungworm Infection in Extensively Managed Goats in Nyangatom District of South Omo Zone, Southern Ethiopia
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Asrat Solomon Kenasew, Ayele Anjulo Kerkela and Tolisa Matiwos Tasisa
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 419; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050419 - 28 Apr 2025
Abstract
One of the common parasitic diseases of goats is lungworm infection, which causes significant economic losses due to losses in production and productivity. A cross-sectional study was carried out from December 2023 to November 2024 to determine the lungworm infection prevalence and associated
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One of the common parasitic diseases of goats is lungworm infection, which causes significant economic losses due to losses in production and productivity. A cross-sectional study was carried out from December 2023 to November 2024 to determine the lungworm infection prevalence and associated risk factors in goats in the study area. Fecal examinations were conducted using the Baermann technique on the 384 goats selected by a simple random sampling technique. An overall prevalence of 33.85% was recorded, and Dictyocaulus filaria was the only lungworm identified during the study period. A statistically significant difference was observed between the prevalence of lungworms in female (45.65%) and male (23%) goats (p < 0.05). A higher prevalence (42.63%) was observed in younger goats than the prevalence (25.87%) in older goats, and the difference between the prevalence was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Regarding the body condition score, the difference was also statistically significant (p < 0.05). Non-dewormed goats were more prone to lungworm infection (41.24%) than dewormed goats (15.45%). Hence, lungworm infection is a considerable disease in the study area, and providing infrastructure for veterinary services was recommended.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases of Animals)
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Open AccessArticle
Mechanisms of Transmission and Adaptation of tet(X4)-Positive IncHI1 Plasmids in XDR Escherichia coli from Pet Dogs: The Role of trhC, rsp, and the Tra1 Region
by
Pengyun Ding, Qianqian Wang, Liangliang Wang, Mengxiang Zheng, Yiming Feng, Yakun Xu, Li Yuan, Gongzheng Hu, Yushan Pan and Dandan He
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 418; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050418 - 28 Apr 2025
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tet(X4)-positive IncHI1 plasmids are widely prevalent in various bacteria. To understand their transmission characteristics, we analyzed two extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Escherichia coli strains isolated from pet dog feces in Henan Province, China. Strain T28R harbored tet(X4)-positive IncHI1, IncF18:A-:B-, and mcr-1-positive
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tet(X4)-positive IncHI1 plasmids are widely prevalent in various bacteria. To understand their transmission characteristics, we analyzed two extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Escherichia coli strains isolated from pet dog feces in Henan Province, China. Strain T28R harbored tet(X4)-positive IncHI1, IncF18:A-:B-, and mcr-1-positive IncI2 plasmids, while T16R carried tet(X4)-positive IncHI1, F16:A-:B-, and mcr-1-positive IncX4 plasmids. Four representative fusion plasmids, pT28R-F1, pT28R-F2, pT28R-F3, and pT16R-F1, in transconjugants were analyzed using WGS and PCR mapping. The results showed that IS26 from the IncF18:A-:B--plasmid attacked the conjugative transfer-associated genes trhc and rsp on the IncHI1 plasmid, generating pT28R-F1 and pT28R-F2. pT28R-F3 was generated through ISCro1- and ISCR2-mediated homologous recombination, deleting the Tra1 region of the IncHI1 plasmid. T16R-F1 emerged from ISCR2- and IS1B-mediated homologous recombination, losing transfer regions of parental plasmids. Notably, fusion plasmids lost the temperature sensitivity of the IncHI1 plasmid, with conjugation frequencies between 1.57 × 10−4 and 3.84 × 10−5 at 28 °C and 37 °C. The findings suggest that tet(X4)-positive IncHI1 plasmids could be mobilized with the assistance of conjugative helper plasmids and that fusion events enhance the adaptability of these plasmids, thus facilitating the spread of antibiotic resistance, posing a growing public health threat.
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Open AccessArticle
Short-Term Outcomes of Abdominal Surgeries Performed with Epidural Anaesthesia in Italian Calves
by
Gessica Giusto, Claudio Bellino, Anna Cerullo and Marco Gandini
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050417 - 28 Apr 2025
Abstract
Abdominal surgery is widely described for several diseases in cattle. While in adults surgical procedures are generally performed in standing or in sternal recumbency, lateral or dorsal recumbency is preferred in calves. General anaesthesia is associated with several side effects, and epidural anaesthesia
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Abdominal surgery is widely described for several diseases in cattle. While in adults surgical procedures are generally performed in standing or in sternal recumbency, lateral or dorsal recumbency is preferred in calves. General anaesthesia is associated with several side effects, and epidural anaesthesia (EA) is a valid alternative anaesthetic protocol for several surgical approaches. Previous studies have already been published about abdominal surgery in calves for several diseases, but they are not focused on short-term outcomes. Therefore, there is a need to report a case series for calves that have undergone exploratory laparotomy under EA. General anaesthesia is limited in cattle due to its association with several complications, such as ruminal stasis, regurgitation and tympany, and alternative protocols need to be used. The aim of this study is to describe the surgical features and short-term outcomes of elective and emergency laparotomies in calves under EA. In more complex or longer-lasting surgery, with a median duration of 80 min, intravenous administration of xylazine was necessary. Short-term survival (defined as survival until discharge from the hospital) rate was 90.1%. The EA was sufficient to ensure adequate analgesia in most surgeries. This type of anaesthesia is easy to administer, with limited side effects. The results of this study support surgeons in decision-making in the event of pathologies requiring abdominal surgery.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Surgery)
Open AccessArticle
Use of Cottonseed Meal in Feeding Yellow-Feathered Broilers: Effects on Performance Parameters, Digestibility and Meat Quality
by
Xiaohang Nie, Xiahan Wei, Weidong Niu, Fengming Li, Jiang Yuan, Gang Lv, Yong Chen and Jiancheng Liu
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050416 - 27 Apr 2025
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with high-protein cottonseed meal (CSM) and de-phenolized cottonseed meal (DPCSM) on growth performance, apparent nutrient digestibility, serum biochemical parameters, slaughter traits, and meat quality in yellow-feathered broilers. A total of 5760 one-day-old male
[...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with high-protein cottonseed meal (CSM) and de-phenolized cottonseed meal (DPCSM) on growth performance, apparent nutrient digestibility, serum biochemical parameters, slaughter traits, and meat quality in yellow-feathered broilers. A total of 5760 one-day-old male Liangfeng Hua broilers were randomly divided into five groups with eight replicates per group. The control group was fed a corn-SBM diet (SBM group), while the CSM50, CSM100, DPCSM50, and DPCSM100 groups replaced 50% and 100% of the equivalent protein from SBM with CSM and DPCSM, respectively. Compared to the control group, the CSM50 and DPCSM50 groups showed no significant negative effect on growth performance; however, dietary calcium digestibility was significantly reduced on day 21. Furthermore, CSM100 and DPCSM100 adversely impacted growth performance, significantly reducing crude fat digestibility and increasing serum urea nitrogen levels on day 42. The broilers in these groups also had reduced pre- and post-slaughter body weights, while those in the CSM50 and DPCSM100 groups exhibited decreased half-clearance rates. In addition, the CSM100 group had significantly increased pectoral muscle drip loss and a* (24 h) values. pH values measured at 45 min and 24 h were significantly elevated in the DPCSM50 and DPCSM100 groups. In conclusion, the replacement of SBM with CSM and DPCSM in yellow-feathered broiler diets should be limited to 50%.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Codonopsis pilosula Polysaccharides Exert Antiviral Effect Through Activating Immune Function in a Macrophage Model of Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus Infection
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Xiaowei Feng, Lei Wang, Jingyan Zhang, Haipeng Feng, Xiaoliang Chen, Junyan Wang, Mingxian Shi, Kang Zhang and Jianxi Li
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 415; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050415 - 27 Apr 2025
Abstract
Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) is a common viral disease in cattle that causes huge economic losses in naïve herds that are introduced to bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). Currently, there are no available anti-BVDV drugs due to the variety and mutability of strains;
[...] Read more.
Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) is a common viral disease in cattle that causes huge economic losses in naïve herds that are introduced to bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). Currently, there are no available anti-BVDV drugs due to the variety and mutability of strains; therefore, developing new anti-BVDV drugs is of great significance. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-BVDV effects and immunomodulatory activities of Codonopsis pilosula polysaccharides (CPPs) in BVDV-infected bovine macrophage (BoMac) cells. CPPs directly inactivated BVDV particles and intervened in BVDV absorption process. The immunity suppression resulting from BVDV in BoMac cells was restored by CPPs, as was verified by phagocytosis increase, the expression up-regulation of cell surface co-stimulatory molecules (CD40, CD80, and CD86), and antigen-presenting function recovery. Furthermore, the expressions of cytokines including TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-18, IL-1β, Caspase-3, Bim, and Bcl-xL at the mRNA and proteins levels were modulated, and a reduction in the apoptosis rate was observed, which demonstrates that CPPs attenuated inflammation and apoptosis induced by BVDV. Collectively, our findings reveal new pharmacological properties of CPPs, which exert anti-BVDV efficacy and regulate immune injury induced by BVDV in BoMac cells, indicating that CPPs are a potential option for BVDV prevention in clinical application.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunological Assessment of Veterinary Infectious Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Evaluating the Immunogenic Potential of ApxI and ApxII from Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae: An Immunoinformatics-Driven Study on mRNA Candidates
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Yi Deng, Jia-Yong Chen, Yuhan Wang, Yu-Luo Wang, Jiale Liu, Zhiling Peng, Jiayu Zhou, Kun Lu, Xin Wen, Xizhu Chen, Siyu Pang, Dan Wang, Miaohan Li, Senyan Du, San-Jie Cao and Qin Zhao
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 414; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050414 - 27 Apr 2025
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Porcine infectious pleuropneumonia (PCP) caused by Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) leads to severe economic losses in swine production. Commercial vaccines offer limited cross-protection for the 19 serotypes, while APP mRNA vaccines remain unexplored. This study evaluated eight candidate APP proteins (ApxI-IV, OlmA, TbpB, GalT,
[...] Read more.
Porcine infectious pleuropneumonia (PCP) caused by Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) leads to severe economic losses in swine production. Commercial vaccines offer limited cross-protection for the 19 serotypes, while APP mRNA vaccines remain unexplored. This study evaluated eight candidate APP proteins (ApxI-IV, OlmA, TbpB, GalT, and GalU) using immunobioinformatics tools, and their immunogenicity and cross-protection were assessed in a mouse model. The results revealed that ApxI and ApxII excel due to their stability, strong antigenicity, non-sensitization, and high immune receptor affinity. Compared to the PBS group, both ApxI and ApxII induced higher serum IgG, IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-γ levels. Following challenge with the two most prevalent APP strains in Mainland China, APP 5b and APP 1, the survival rates for ApxI (71.4% and 62.5%) and ApxII (75% and 71.4%) were measured, with notably reduced lung lesions and neutrophil infiltration. These findings highlight ApxI and ApxII’s potential in mRNA vaccine development as a promising approach to overcome current vaccine limitations. Future research should focus on creating APP mRNA vaccines and testing their efficacy in swine. This study is the first to combine immunoinformatics with experimental validation for APP mRNA vaccine antigens, representing a novel contribution.
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Open AccessCommunication
Active Immunization Against Inhibin Impaired Spermatogenesis, Plasma Luteinizing Hormone, Pituitary Prolactin mRNA, and Hypothalamic Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide mRNA Expressions in Yangzhou Ganders
by
Muhammad Faheem Akhtar, Muhammad Umar, Ejaz Ahmad, Mingxia Zhu, Ying Han and Changfa Wang
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050413 - 27 Apr 2025
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Inhibin (INH) plays a key role in the regulation of the reproductive performance of geese. It inhibits follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion from the anterior pituitary gland to regulate spermatogenesis. Immunization against INH in male geese leads to the production of antibodies to neutralize
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Inhibin (INH) plays a key role in the regulation of the reproductive performance of geese. It inhibits follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion from the anterior pituitary gland to regulate spermatogenesis. Immunization against INH in male geese leads to the production of antibodies to neutralize the INH activity that enhances testicular function and gonadotropin production. The objectives of the present research were to elaborate on the effects of inhibin (INH) immunization on testicular histology, plasma LH, pituitary PRL mRNA, and hypothalamic VIP mRNA expressions in Yangzhou ganders. A total of 60 birds were selected and divided into control (CON) and INH-immunized (INH-immunized) groups, having 30 in each group. In this experiment, the ganders were immunized with INH three times, and birds in the CON group were inoculated with bovine serum albumin (BSA). The analyzed data revealed that immunization against inhibin had no significant effects on improving the plasma concentration of LH hormone; however, significant effects were observed on the germ cell line, hypothalamic VIP mRNA, and pituitary PRL mRNA expressions. It is concluded that INH (INH) immunization is an effective tool to improve reproductive efficiency in Yangzhou ganders; however, INH immunization may harm pituitary PRL mRNA and hypothalamic mRNA expressions and LH plasma concentration. Seasonality played a vital impact on the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis.
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Open AccessArticle
Impact of Enterococcus faecium Kimate-X on Reducing Stress in Dogs Through Gut Microbiota Modulation
by
Rui Zhang, Wanjin Hu, Saiwei Zhong, Weiyang Chen, Meiru Chen and Qinghua Yu
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 412; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050412 - 27 Apr 2025
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Stress in dog breeding leads to significant physiological and psychological burdens, including anxiety, reduced appetite, weakened immune function, gut microbiota imbalance, and even death. Currently, there are various pharmacological interventions for stress management, but few focus on gut health. This study evaluates the
[...] Read more.
Stress in dog breeding leads to significant physiological and psychological burdens, including anxiety, reduced appetite, weakened immune function, gut microbiota imbalance, and even death. Currently, there are various pharmacological interventions for stress management, but few focus on gut health. This study evaluates the potential of a novel strain, Enterococcus faecium Kimate-X, in alleviating transport stress and improving gut health in dogs, providing an alternative to traditional pharmacological treatments. In vitro experiments showed that Kimate-X significantly enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) while reducing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. In vivo, dogs supplemented with Kimate-X exhibited significantly lower cortisol levels after transport, indicating reduced stress. Metagenomic analysis revealed increased gut microbiota diversity and higher concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (acetate, propionate, and butyrate) in fecal samples. This study systematically uncovers the mechanism by which Enterococcus faecium Kimate-X alleviates transport stress through modulation of the gut microbiota. These findings provide new scientific evidence supporting the use of probiotics as a novel approach to stress management in animals.
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Open AccessArticle
Reighardia sternae Infection and Associated Lesions in a Yellow-Legged Gull (Larus michahellis) in Italy
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Renato Ceccherelli, Valentina Virginia Ebani, Stefano Pesaro, Giacomo Rossi and Stefania Perrucci
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050411 - 27 Apr 2025
Abstract
Reighardia sternae is a pentastomid parasitising the respiratory system of larids and skuas, the pathological significance of which is still poorly understood. In this study, pentastomes found in the interclavicular air sac of a deceased and necropsied yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis)
[...] Read more.
Reighardia sternae is a pentastomid parasitising the respiratory system of larids and skuas, the pathological significance of which is still poorly understood. In this study, pentastomes found in the interclavicular air sac of a deceased and necropsied yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis) were identified by parasitological and molecular methods and associated gross and histopathological lesions were evaluated. After morphological evaluation and molecular characterisation, the species R. sternae was identified. This is the first report of R. sternae infecting L. michahellis in Italy. Gross pathology showed generalised aerosacculitis, parabronchial edema, and enlargement of the heart, liver, and spleen. The systemic lesions found at histopathological examination were indicative of chronic cardiocirculatory failure, which led to the death of the gull. Moreover, inflammation was present throughout the lungs and air sacs in the form of some granulomas and diffuse small nodular aggregates rich in lymphocytes. The remnants of a parasite were observed within a granulomatous lesion in the lung, suggesting a primary host response to the parasite. These latter findings may suggest that the migration of R. sternae was the cause of the pathological granulomatous pictures in the examined yellow-legged gull.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology)
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Open AccessArticle
Reference Whole Genome Sequence Analyses and Characterization of a Novel Carnobacterium maltaromaticum Distinct Sequence Type Isolated from a North American Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) Gastrointestinal Tract
by
C. Cristoph Klews, Jessika L. Bryant, Jennifer McCabe, Ariel N. Atchley, Thomas W. Cousins, Maya Barnard-Davidson, Mark R. Ackermann, Michael Netherland, Jr., Nur A. Hasan, Peter A. Jordan, Evan S. Forsythe, Patrick N. Ball and Bruce S. Seal
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050410 - 27 Apr 2025
Abstract
We hypothesize that bacteria isolated from free-ranging animals could potentially be useful for practical applications. To meet this objective a Gram-positive bacterium was isolated from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of a Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) using Brucella broth with hemin and
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We hypothesize that bacteria isolated from free-ranging animals could potentially be useful for practical applications. To meet this objective a Gram-positive bacterium was isolated from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of a Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) using Brucella broth with hemin and vitamin K (BBHK). By small ribosomal RNA (16S) gene sequencing the bacterium was initially identified as a novel Carnobacterium maltaromaticum strain. The bacterium could be propagated both anaerobically and aerobically and was both catalase/oxidase negative and negative by the starch hydrolysis as well as negative using lipase assays. The reference whole genome sequence (WGS) was obtained using both Illumina and Nanopore sequencing. The genome assembly was 3,512,202 bp in length, encoding core bacterial genes with a GC% content of 34.48. No lysogenic bacteriophage genes were detected, although the genome harbors genes for the expression of bacteriocin and other secondary metabolites with potential antimicrobial properties. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST), WGS phylogenetics, average nucleotide identity (ANI), and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analyses of the isolate’s genome indicate this bacterium is a newly identified Carnobacterium maltaromaticum sequence type (ST). Members of the Carnobacteria have anti-listeria activities, highlighting their potential functional properties. Consequently, the isolate could be a potential probiotic for canids and this is the first report on an axenic C. maltaromaticum culture from the genus Canis.
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(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology)
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Open AccessArticle
Laboratory Testing to Inform Antimicrobial Use for Bovine Respiratory Disease: Perceptions of Canadian Feedlot Veterinarians
by
Olufunto O. Adewusi, Candace I. J. Nykiforuk, Cheryl L. Waldner, Nathan E. N. Erickson, Sheryl P. Gow and Simon J. G. Otto
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050409 - 27 Apr 2025
Abstract
Timely, accurate, and reliable laboratory tools are important for antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in food animal production. The objectives of this study were to (1) identify factors that influence live animal respiratory sample collection for laboratory testing and (2) describe the potential for integration
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Timely, accurate, and reliable laboratory tools are important for antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in food animal production. The objectives of this study were to (1) identify factors that influence live animal respiratory sample collection for laboratory testing and (2) describe the potential for integration of laboratory testing of samples from live animals into an AMS strategy for bovine respiratory disease (BRD) management in Canadian feedlots. Utilizing focused ethnography, virtual key informant interviews were conducted with eight feedlot veterinarians from Alberta, Ontario, and Saskatchewan, Canada. Thematic analysis revealed four themes: (1) lived experience of feedlot veterinarians with laboratory testing for BRD pathogens and antimicrobial resistance (AMR), (2) evidence-informed BRD management that integrates multiple data sources and their components, (3) organizational factors that affect the uptake and use of laboratory tests, and (4) the role of laboratory testing to support AMS in BRD management. While sample collection and laboratory testing are commonly used for BRD and AMR research and surveillance, they are not routinely applied in everyday BRD management. Veterinarians identified key challenges with laboratory testing, including turnaround time, the need for clear benefits, practical implementation, and effective communication with feedlot managers. Laboratory testing must provide valuable, actionable insights to encourage its adoption in Canadian feedlot operations. If successful, such testing could support AMS and be used to justify antimicrobial use if this were to become a regulatory or market requirement.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevention, Diagnosis, and Management of Bovine Respiratory Diseases—2nd Edition)
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Open AccessBrief Report
Questionnaire-Based Survey Regarding the Rational Usage of Antimicrobial Agents in Food-Producing Animals in Romania
by
Ionela Popa, Kalman Imre, Adriana Morar, Ionica Iancu, Vlad Iorgoni, Timea Bochiș, Călin Pop, Alexandru Gligor, Tiana Florea, Sebastian Alexandru Popa, Viorel Herman and Ileana Nichita
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 408; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050408 - 26 Apr 2025
Abstract
The annual rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health concern. This Romanian questionnaire-based survey aimed to evaluate the appropriateness of routine antimicrobial use by veterinary practitioners in food-producing animals and to gauge their concerns about AMR. To gather data, an
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The annual rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health concern. This Romanian questionnaire-based survey aimed to evaluate the appropriateness of routine antimicrobial use by veterinary practitioners in food-producing animals and to gauge their concerns about AMR. To gather data, an online questionnaire with 28 questions was developed and distributed nationwide to veterinarians via the Google Drive network and Google Forms. Despite this increased awareness, deviations in antimicrobial administration persist, often due to insufficient knowledge about AMR and the mechanisms of antimicrobial action. This study underscores the urgent need for prudent antimicrobial use in livestock production in Romania.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Resistance and Virulence Mechanisms in Food Animal Pathogens: Implications for Veterinary Health and Food Safety)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
The Control of Gastrointestinal Parasites of Village Chickens in Africa Using Ethnoveterinary Intervention: A Systematic Review
by
Dikeledi Petunia Malatji, Tondani Madeleine Ramantswana and Maphuti Betty Ledwaba
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050407 - 26 Apr 2025
Abstract
Gastrointestinal parasites have been reported to have negative effects on chickens reared in rural areas in African countries. Hence, smallholder farmers use ethnoveterinary remedies to control these parasites in village chickens. This study used online databases (ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar) to search,
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Gastrointestinal parasites have been reported to have negative effects on chickens reared in rural areas in African countries. Hence, smallholder farmers use ethnoveterinary remedies to control these parasites in village chickens. This study used online databases (ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar) to search, gather, and review articles published between January 1990 and June 2024 where ethnoveterinary intervention was considered to control gastrointestinal parasites, following PRISMA guidelines. A total of 540 articles were generated, and only 17 articles passed the screening process and were considered for further analysis. The findings of this review indicate that ethnoveterinary remedies are used by smallholder farmers to control gastrointestinal parasites such as Ascaridia galli, Capillaria spp., Choanotaenia infundibulum, Eimeria spp., Heterakis gallinarum, and Raillietina cesticillus in village chickens. Aloe spp., Carica papaya, Musa paradisiaca, and Venonia amygdalina were reported as the most-preferred medicines, and farmers utilized different plant parts ranging from leaves (48.8%), bark and roots (12.2%), tubers (7.3%), and seeds (4.9%). These remedies are administered per os, topically, and dermally. The current review successfully summarized ethnoveterinary intervention used by smallholder farmers to control gastrointestinal parasites in chickens found in African countries. Therefore, there is a need to investigate the efficacy of these identified ethnoveterinary medicines against gastrointestinal parasites in chickens.
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(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Internal Medicine)
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Open AccessArticle
Late Gestation Maternal Nutrition Has a Stronger Impact on Offspring Liver Transcriptome than Full-Gestation Supplementation in Beef Cattle
by
Guilherme Henrique Gebim Polizel, Maria Elis Perissin dos Santos, Aline Silva Mello Cesar, Wellison J. S. Diniz, German D. Ramírez-Zamudio, Paulo Fantinato-Neto, Arícia Christofaro Fernandes, Barbara Carolina Teixeira Prati, Édison Furlan, Gabriela do Vale Pombo and Miguel Henrique de Almeida Santana
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 406; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050406 - 26 Apr 2025
Abstract
Maternal nutrition’s impact on liver transcriptome in beef cattle offspring is still underexplored. We investigated the long-term effects of maternal nutrition strategies on the liver transcriptome of pre-slaughter Nelore bulls. Pregnant cows were divided into three groups, each receiving different nutritional regimens: NP
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Maternal nutrition’s impact on liver transcriptome in beef cattle offspring is still underexplored. We investigated the long-term effects of maternal nutrition strategies on the liver transcriptome of pre-slaughter Nelore bulls. Pregnant cows were divided into three groups, each receiving different nutritional regimens: NP (control, only mineral supplementation), PP (late gestation protein–energy supplementation), and FP (protein–energy supplementation throughout pregnancy). Liver samples were collected from male offspring aged 22.5 ± 1 months and analyzed using RNA-Seq (n = 5 per treatment). Principal component analysis (PCA) and differential gene expression analysis were carried out in an R statistical environment. Genes were considered significant when FDR < 0.05. The over-representation analysis (ORA) was performed using the clusterProfiler package from R. Metabolic pathways were considered significant when the Q-value < 0.1. The PCA showed overlapping clusters among the groups. We identified 16 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with PP × NP contrast, four with FP × NP, and two with FP × PP. The ORA revealed two significant pathways (thiamine and butanoate metabolism). The identified genes and pathways were associated with vitamins, energy, oxidative metabolism, and immune function. This study emphasizes the more significant long-term effects of the PP treatment on the offspring’s liver transcriptome compared to the FP treatment.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Maternal Nutrition on Offspring Development and Health in Ruminants)
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Open AccessCommunication
Detection of Bartonella spp. in a Pipistrellus Pipistrellus Bat from Portugal
by
Gonçalo Barros, Sara Gomes-Gonçalves, Luísa Rodrigues, Carlos Carrapato, Gabriela Fernandes Silva, Irina Amorim and João Rodrigo Mesquita
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 405; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050405 - 26 Apr 2025
Abstract
In recent years, zoonotic pathogens have become increasingly more relevant in scientific research due to their implications on public health. Understanding their pathogenic potential, the pathways they use to infect and their reservoirs enables better care for both human and animal patients, and
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In recent years, zoonotic pathogens have become increasingly more relevant in scientific research due to their implications on public health. Understanding their pathogenic potential, the pathways they use to infect and their reservoirs enables better care for both human and animal patients, and possible infection outbreaks can be more easily contained. Bartonella belongs to a vast list of zoonotic pathogens that can infect mammals, including humans, but also companion animals and wildlife, and is capable of causing disease. Bats are a possible source and reservoir of this bacterial genus, and Bartonella spp. has already been identified in these animals in several countries. Using these premises, skin samples of the pinna and wing of 71 bats (Pipistrellus pipistrellus) collected from southern Portugal were tested through PCR for the presence of Bartonella spp., and positive results were found in 1.41% (1/71). The sequence obtained shared genetic proximity with an already known pathogenic Bartonella strain that affects both humans and animals. From the public health perspective, these findings suggest that bats may play a role in the transmission of this pathogen and provides new insights into the presence of this agent in Portugal.
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(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology)
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