Heart Sounds in Healthy Cattle
Author Information
Author(s): Rezakhani Ali, Zarifi Mehdi
Primary Institution: Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of the third and fourth heart sounds in clinically healthy Holstein cattle?
Conclusion
The study found that the third and fourth heart sounds can be audible in some clinically healthy cattle, indicating they may be considered normal in the absence of heart disease signs.
Supporting Evidence
- The third heart sound was audible in 8.7% of animals.
- 29.3% of the cattle demonstrated the fourth heart sound.
- The prevalence of the fourth heart sound was significantly higher in cattle older than 48 months.
- None of the calves younger than twelve months had the third heart sound.
- Both sounds were more prevalent in older ages.
- There was a reverse correlation between heart rate and the fourth heart sound.
Takeaway
Some healthy cows can make extra heart sounds, which is normal if they are not sick.
Methodology
The study involved auscultating the hearts of 300 healthy Holstein cattle from 12 dairy farms using stethoscopes.
Limitations
The study only included clinically healthy cattle and did not assess other breeds or conditions.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on Holstein cattle from 12 dairy farms in Shiraz, Iran.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.000
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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