Significance of abattoir finding among slaughtered sheep

Mahmoud Adel
Significance of abattoir finding among
slaughtered sheep
Master's Thesis
Medical Science

Cairo University
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Department of Food Hygiene and Control
Approval sheet
This is to approve that thesis presented by : Mahmoud
Adel Mahmoud Ahmed Mustafa. Entitled Significance of
abattoir finding among slaughtered sheep. For For the
Degree of M.V.Sc. (Hygiene and Control of Meat and its
Products) is approved by the examination committee:
Prof. Dr. Fatma Hassan Mohammed
Professor of Meat Hygiene
Bani-Suief University
Prof. Dr. Amal Mohammed Al-Sherif
Cairo University
Prof. Dr. Adel Mohammed Ibrahim
Cairo University

‫ﺍﻟﺘﻮﺑﺔ‬‫ﺍﻵﻳﺔ‬﴿١٠٥﴾

I
Name: Mahmoud Adel Mahmoud Ahmed Mustafa
Date of birth: 13th
/8/1977
Place of birth: Cairo
Nationality: Egyptian
Degree: Bachelor degree of Veterinary Science
Specialization: Hygiene and Control of Meat and its Products
Supervision: Prof. Dr. Adel M. Ibrahim
Dr. Hassan S. Osman
ABSTRACT
This survey was conducted in El-Basateen abattoir in Cairo to study the
significance of abattoir finding among slaughtered sheep from January to
December 2006. A total of 57223 sheep included 39582 Saidi, 17367 Barki,
54 Ossimi, 31 Rahmani, and 189 Imported breeds (162 Romanian, 27
Ethiopian) admitted to El-Basateen abattoir ovine slaughter hall were
slaughtered & inspected according to the Egyptian Official Code # 517 for
Meat inspection presented in the (El-Wakaa El-Masria, 1986). All gross
pathological & abnormal findings revealed during the postmortem
inspection of sheep carcasses were recorded & photographed to illustrate the
macroscopic details of each gross lesion. The prevalence of most common
abnormalities and affections demonstrated in sheep carcasses were estimated
in relation to breed, age, sex and seasons. The economic losses due to
condemned carcasses & organs were evaluated. The public health
significance & zoonotic importance of recorded affections have been
discussed.
Key words: sheep, carcasses, organs, abattoir, condemned, postmortem,
gross lesion, photographed.

II
I am greatly indebted to Dr. ADEL MOHAMED IBRAHEEM,
Professor of Meat Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
Cairo University for his scholarly guidance, intellectual
advice, valuable supervision and constant encouragement
throughout the study period; so it gives me great pleasure
to express my sincere appreciation to him.
My sincere thanks to Dr. HAYAM ABDEL-AAL MANSOUR,
Professor of Meat Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
Cairo University and Dr. HASSAN SHAFEEQ, undersecretary
of Central Administration of Slaughterhouses & Public
Hygiene, General Organization of Veterinary Services,
Ministry of Agriculture for their kind advices.
My deepest thanks to Dr. MAGDI MAHDI Professor of
Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo
University and Dr. AHMED EMAM General Manager of
General Administration of Meat Hygiene, General
Organization of Veterinary Services, Ministry of
Agriculture for their great help.

III
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
ABSTRACT I
AKNOWLEDGEMENT II
LIST OF TABLES IV
LIST OF FIGUERS V
LIST OF PHOTOS VI
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS VII
INTRODUCTION 1
REVIEW OF LITERATURE 3
MATERIAL AND METHODS 70
RESULTS 75
DISCUSSION 145
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 192
SUMMARY 195
APPENDICES 198
REFERENCES 202
ARABIC SUMMARY

IV
LIST OF TABLES
Page
Table 1: Incidence of affections necessitated total condemnation of
carcasses
75
Table 2: Prevalence of Avital slaughter & Imperfect bleeding among
examined sheep carcasses
76
Table 3: Prevalence of Poorness & Emaciation among examined sheep
carcasses
77
Table 4: Prevalence of Abnormal colors among examined sheep carcasses 78
Table 5: Condemned organs & trimming in different seasons 79
Table 6: Condemned organs 79
Table 7: Prevalence of rough handling injuries among examined sheep
carcasses
80
Table 8: Prevalence of Abscessation among examined sheep carcasses 81
Table 9: Abscesses in different organs & seasons 82
Table 10: Prevalence of Mange among examined sheep carcasses 83
Table 11: Prevalence of Parasites among examined sheep carcasses 84
Table 12: Prevalence of Liver Affections among examined sheep carcasses 86
Table 13: Prevalence of Renal Affections among examined sheep carcasses 87
Table 14: Prevalence of the most common affections among examined sheep
carcasses
88

V
LIST OF FIGURES
Page
Fig. 1: Prevalence of avital slaughter & imperfect bleeding according to sex 76
Fig. 2: Prevalence of avital slaughter & imperfect bleeding according to age 76
Fig. 3: Prevalence of avital slaughter & imperfect bleeding according to seasons 76
Fig. 4: Prevalence of Poorness & Emaciation according to sex 77
Fig. 5: Prevalence of Poorness & Emaciation according to age 77
Fig. 6: Prevalence of Poorness & Emaciation according to seasons 77
Fig. 7: Prevalence of Abnormal colors according to sex 78
Fig. 8: Prevalence of Abnormal colors according to age 78
Fig. 9: Prevalence of Abnormal colors according to seasons 78
Fig. 10: Prevalence of Bruising according to sex 80
Fig. 11: Prevalence of Bruising according to age 80
Fig. 12: Prevalence of Bruising according to seasons. 80
Fig. 13: Prevalence of Abscess according to sex 81
Fig. 14: Prevalence of Abscess according to age 81
Fig. 15: Prevalence of Abscess according to seasons 81
Fig. 16: Prevalence of Mange according to sex 83
Fig. 17: Prevalence of Mange according to age. 83
Fig. 18: Prevalence of Mange according to seasons 83
Fig. 19: Prevalence of Parasites according to sex 84
Fig. 20: Prevalence of Parasites according to age 84
Fig. 21: Prevalence of Parasites according to seasons 84
Fig. 22: Prevalence of C. ovis C. tenuicollis, Fasciola & Hydatid cyst through seasons 85
Fig. 23: Prevalence of C. ovis C. tenuicollis, Fasciola & Hydatid cyst through sex 85
Fig. 24: Prevalence of Liver Affections according to sex 86
Fig. 25: Prevalence of Liver Affections according to age. 86
Fig. 26: Prevalence of Liver Affections according to seasons 86
Fig. 27: Prevalence of Renal Affections according to sex 87
Fig. 28: Prevalence of Renal Affections according to age 87
Fig. 29: Prevalence of Renal Affections according to seasons 87

VI
LIST OF PHOTOS
Page
Egyptian sheep breeds 89
Imported (foreign) sheep breeds 90
The genders in Sheep 91
Dentition & stamps in Sheep 92
A case of imperfect bleeding 94
A case of avital slaughter (Adulteration) 96
Cases of cachexia & poorness 98
A case of emergency slaughter & delayed evisceration 100
A case of jaundice 102
A case of pseudotuberculosis 104
Cases of pyemia (multiple abscesses) 105
A case of pyemia & Zenker’s necrosis 107
A case of Uremia 110
A case of old fractures 111
A case of ovine cysticercosis (Sheep measles) 112
A case of eosinophilic myositis 113
A case of Suppurative Pleuropneumonia 114
A case of pulpy kidney 115
A case of Blackleg 116
Cases of yellow fatted carcass 117
Rough handling 118
Skeletal deformities 121
Abscesses 122
Pseudotuberculosis 124
Mange 125
Cysticercus ovis 126
Cysticercus tenuicollis 127
Hydatid cysts 128
Fascioliasis 129
Larvae migration tracks 130
Hepatic disorders 131
Urinary disorders 139
Pulmonary disorders 143

VII
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
Arcano. pyogenes Arcanobacterium pyogenes
A. parasiticus Aspergillus parasiticus
Cl. Perfringens Clostridium chauvoei
Cl. Perfringens Clostridium Perfringens
Cl. teteni Clostridium teteni
C. pseudotuberculosis Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis
C. cystitidis Corynebacterium cystitidis
C. pilosum Corynebacterium pilosum
C. renale Corynebacterium renale
C. ovis Cysticercus ovis
C. tenuicollis Cysticercus tenuicollis
D. dendriticum Dicrocoelium dendriticum
DNA Deoxyribo Nucleic Acid
E. granulosus Echinococcus granulosus
E. coli Escherichia coli
F. hepatica Fasciola hepatica
F. gigantica Fasciola gigantica
F. necrophorum Fusobacterium necrophorum
M. ovipneumoniae Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae
P. aeruginosa Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Rhodo. equi Rhodococcus equi
Staph. aureus Staphylococcus aureus
Strept. alphahemolytica Streptococcus alphahemolytica
T. hydatigena Taenia hydatigena
T. ovis Taenia ovis

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INTRODUCTION
Sheep (Ovis aries) are quadruped ruminant mammals typically kept as
livestock . Numbering a little over one billion worldwide. The top 5 countries on
highest number of sheep are China 134 million, India 73 million, Australia 68
million, Iran 54 million and Sudan 52 million (FAO stat, 2010).
Sheep population in Egypt is about 5.5 million (FAO stat., 2011). The three
major Egyptian sheep breeds are: Barki, Ossimi and Rhamani, representing 65% of
the total population, in addition to Saidi breed (Elshennawy, 1995).
Sheep are most likely descended from the wild mouflon of Europe and Asia.
One of the earliest animals to be domesticated for agricultural purposes, sheep is
raised for fleece, meat (lamb, hogget or mutton) and milk. A sheep's wool is the
most widely used animal fiber, and is usually harvested by shearing.
Since ancient times, lamb has been regarded as a religious symbol. Jesus is
often referred to as the "Lamb of "God." Sheep were commonly used for sacrifice
by the Muslims all over the world on the great festival of Eid-el Adha; millions of
sheep are slaughtered on this auspicious day every year (Ali, 2009). It is also
customary for Muslims to sacrifice lambs to celebrate the birth of a child (two
lambs for a boy child and one for a girl). The sacrifice is part of the "aqiqah"
ceremony (Sheep info, 2010).
Ovine meat from younger animals is called lamb and that from older ones is
called mutton. It is considered as more desirable, juicier, tender, flavorful and
fatter than goat meat (Schonfeldt et al., 1993) and also than beef or pork
(Bickerstaffe et al., 1997). Sheep continue to be important for wool and meat
today, and are also occasionally raised for pelts, as dairy animals, or as model
organisms for science (Wikipedia, 2012).
Meat is a perishable commodity, and poor handling daily can exert both public
health and economic toll on any nation. Marketing and sale of meat requiring

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inspection of animals before and after slaughter, that meat hygiene service
functions in such a way as to satisfy consumers and at the same time safeguard
public health and animal hygiene.
The aim of meat inspection is to provide safe and wholesome meat for human
consumption. The responsibility for achieving this objective lies primarily with the
relevant public health authorities who are represented by veterinarians and meat
inspectors at the abattoir stage.
Meat inspection is split into an ante-mortem and post-mortem inspection.
Both have the purpose of minimizing and removing the risk of hazardous meat
being authorized for sale and thus posing a public health risk. The primary aims of
traditional meat inspection (van Logtestijn et al., 1993) are to:
o Remove any grossly abnormal, inedible products from the human food
chain.
o Prevent the distribution of contaminated meat to humans.
o Assist in the eradication of specific diseases in livestock.
Therefore the present study was planned to fulfill the following:
1. Demonstrate & illustrate with colored photo illustration the characteristics of
the gross pathological finding of the different abnormal conditions revealed
during the postmortem inspections of the slaughtered sheep.
2. Monitoring the incidence of organs and carcasses condemnation of sheep
slaughtered in El Basateen modern abattoir & their prevalence regarding
breeds, sexes, ages and seasons.
3. Evaluating the economic losses due to condemned carcasses & organs.
4. Discussing the public health significance & zoonotic importance of recorded
affections.

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REVIEW OF LITERATURE
1-Sheep as food animal:
Almahdy et al. (2000) stated that Egyptian sheep breeds are characterized by
extended breeding seasons, high fertility, and low prolificacy. Currently in Egypt
efforts are being made to intensify production systems, primarily through changing
reproductive management and crossing native breeds with introduced breeds.
FAO (2000) reported that the world population of sheep stands at 1071 million.
China has the largest sheep population 128 million ovines, followed by Australia
and New Zealand, having around 120 and 46 million ovines, respectively.
Galal et al. (2002) stated that sheep is one of the most important domestic animals
in Egypt. There are several sheep breeds. Their total populations exceed 4 million
heads and are raised mainly for meat production with carpet sheep wool as a
secondary product. Egyptian sheep breeds distributed around the country from
North to South. The Barki breed is found at the West coast and is well adapted to
the desert condition. Rahmani breed is mainly at the Nile delta. Ossimi is in central
Egypt, whereas the Saidi and Sohagi breeds are found in Southern Egypt. They
represent 11%, 23%, 12%, 7% and 26% of the total sheep population, respectively.
Ermias and Rege (2003) found that carcasses of Rahmani lambs were fatter than
those of Ossimi ones.
Galal et al. (2005) stated that Sheep contribute 6% of the total red meet produced
in Egypt. The total sheep population in Egypt is 4,200,000 heads.
Williams (2007) said that lamb meat is one of the few good sources of iron and an
excellent source of zinc, lamb also have more omega-3 fatty acids than either
chicken or pork, although fish is still a significantly better source than any of the
red meats.
Cinkulov et al. (2008) reported that Tsigai sheep is one of the oldest Southeast
European sheep breeds, used for milk, meat and wool production and is associated
with local traditions and food culture. The breed might have originated from
Turkey and subsequently spread to the Balkan region, Hungary, Slovakia, Czech
Republic, Moldavia and Russia.

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El Nahas et al. (2008) reported that Barki is found in the Mediterranean coastal
strip west of Alexandria; Rahmani is found in the Northern Delta (middle of Nile
Delta), whereas Ossimi is found in South of Nile Delta. Egyptian sheep breeds are
fat tailed and their body covered with carpet wool.
Gizaw (2008) stated that there are about 14 traditionally recognized sheep
populations in Ethiopia. The sheep types in Ethiopia are classified into four major
groups based on their physical characteristics: short fat-tailed, long fat-tailed, thin-
tailed and fat-rumped sheep. Fiber type is another major distinguishing feature of
sheep breeds in Ethiopia. There are two breed groups: course-wool sheep and
short-hair sheep. Coarse-wool sheep are found in cold, sub-alpine environments
and short-hair sheep in warmer areas.
Abdel-Moneim (2009) found that heart girth and paunch girth of Barki ram lambs
were significantly higher than those of Ossimi and Rahmani ones. Liver weight
was significantly heavier in Barki ram lambs than in Ossimi and Rahmani ones.
Carcass of Ossimi significantly excelled that of Barki and Rahmani breeds in total
fat stores. Whereas, Barki carcass had significantly less total fat content. The
superiority of Ossimi breed in total fat stores may be due to its heaviest fat tail.
Accordingly, hot carcass weight was the highest in Ossimi ram lambs (26.1 kg)
followed by Barki ones (25.8 kg). Whereas, Rahmani ram lambs produced
significantly the lowest hot carcass weight (24.3 kg). Hence, the highest dressing
percentage was significantly found in Ossimi carcass (56.2%) which was over
Barki (53.3%) and Rahmani (53.1%) carcasses.
Teleb et al. (2009) reported that Saidi sheep are the oldest Egyptian breeds located
in Upper Egypt. They are raised mainly for lamb production with wool as a
secondary product.
Ilişiu et al. (2010) stated that Tsigai breed comprises 18 % of the entire Romanian
sheep population, taking second place after Turcana breed (69.9 %). These breeds
are kept in mountain and sub-mountain regions with large areas of pastures.
Sheep info (2010) reported that Barki sheep, which goes by several other names, is
well-adapted to live under desert conditions. Ossimi sheep breed originated in the
Ossim village in the Giza Governorate of Egypt and is the most popular among the
Nile and Delta sheep breeds. The breed is adapted to variable conditions and is
usually raised under intensive cropping conditions. They are a medium sized
sheep, narrow, with a shallow body and long legs. They are multi-colored, usually
white with a brown head, neck, and legs. They produce course/carpet wool and
have a fat tail. Rams are horned. Rahmani sheep originated in Northern Syria and

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Northern Turkey and was introduced into Egypt in the 9th
century. The original
stock is the Red Karman from Turkey. The breed is named after Rahmania, a
village in the Beheira governorate in the North of the Delta. This breed is believed
to have some resistance to internal parasites.
2-Antemortem inspection:
Dentation:
Winter and Charnley (1999) reported that sheep have front teeth on the lower jaw
and a dental pad on the upper jaw. They also have molars for grinding their food.
These molars are located on both upper and lower jaws in the back of the mouth.
Sheep have 32 permanent teeth. Eight lower incisors, no upper incisors, 12 molars
on the top jaw and 12 molars on the bottom jaw. In first year animals, all teeth are
small and sharp. They will gradually be replaced by larger, permanent teeth, and
this process is used to help determine the age of the sheep.
NZMCA (2004) classified sheep as follows:
o Lamb: <12 months of age or without any permanent incisor teeth.
o Hogget: male or female having two permanent incisors.
o Ram: male having more than two permanent incisors.
o Mutton: ewe or wether having more than two permanent incisors.
Cocquyt et al. (2005) noticed that, in all sheep breeds the permanent central
incisors erupted at between 12 and 18 months of age. In 96 % of the sheep the
permanent middle incisors erupted at between 18 and 26 months; and in 92 % the
permanent lateral incisors erupted at between 24 and 36 months of age. The
permanent corner teeth erupted at between 32 and 44 months in 96 % of the sheep.
Vatta et al. (2005) reported that when lambs are born, they have four pairs of baby
or "milk" teeth. All teeth are small and sharp. by the time they replaced by
permanent teeth .Once all eight permanent incisors are fully erupted the sheep can
also be referred to as "aged", and once teeth are lost or broken, they are referred to
as "‘broken-mouthed".
Sex differentiation:
Sainz et al. (1990) stated that sheep sex does not seem to be a factor which affects
the efficiency of fat deposition related to the energy ingested.

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Bennett et al. (1991) stated that female sheep is the sexual type with the greatest
amount of fat, which is distributed in the carcass mainly in the front and ventral
regions.
Gracey et al. (1999) reported that, Lamb: is a sheep from birth to weaning time
(generally 3 ½ - 4 ½ months old). Butchery apply a more generous interpretation to
the term lamb and use it to donate a sheep from birth until shearing time the
following year (13 months). Ram: is the uncastrated male. Wether: is the castrated
male sheep. Gimmer: is a female which has not yet borne a lamb. Ewe: is a female
which has borne a lamb.
Vergara et al. (1999) stated that the color of meat is not affected by sex.
Gur et al. (2003) stated that female sheep having higher dressing percentage and
fatness score. Female lambs were fatter than male lambs as indicated by external
fat estimation and kidney fat.
Castration:
Haddad et al. (2006) concluded that castration had no effect on average daily gain,
hot carcass weight, cold carcass weight and dressing percentages of Awassi lambs.
However, kidney fat for castrated lambs was significantly higher, reduced
efficiency of feed utilization, increased subcutaneous fat and decreased carcass
leanness. Therefore, due to local consumer preference of leaner carcasses with
minimum subcutaneous fat, castration of Awassi lambs to be slaughtered
approximately 130 days is not recommended under an intensive feeding system.
Dwyer and Lawrence (2008) reported that lambs may often reach slaughter weight
before sexual maturity making castration unnecessary. In addition, there may be
some production benefits in leaving male lambs entire as ram lamb grow faster and
produce leaner carcass than castrated male.
Hanrahan (2010) stated that male lambs left entire grow significantly faster than
castrates, while meat from entire male lambs has less fat, and thus represents better
value for consumers.
Cryptorchidism:
Lainas and Deligiannis (2002) evaluated the frequency of cryptorchidism in the
Karagouniko breed of sheep, Greece. They inspected 14107 carcasses of male
lambs. High frequency (23.81%) was detected. Cryptorchidism was found to be

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bilateral or unilateral 20:1, respectively. The most common type of unilateral
defect was found to be the right one 10:1. Bilateral was of abdominal or inguinal
type 400:1. Testicular aplasia was found to be rare (0.02% of total examined male
lambs or 0.09% of cryptorchid ones). The weight of “hidden” testicles and
epididymides was lower than that of normal (14.06% and 22.99%, respectively).
However, until the age of 4 months, there was no difference in weight between
cryptorchidic and normal lambs. Males with bilateral cryptorchidism were not able
to produce semen.
Smith et al. (2007) recorded the incidence of cryptorchidism in ram lambs of the
North Ronaldsay breed between 1998 and 2005. The overall incidence of
cryptorchidism was 7.4% (ranging from 2.4% to 18.2% in different years). In
87.3% of the cases only one testis was retained, with the right testis being affected
in 78.5% of all the cryptorchids.
Kahn and Mays (2008) stated that cryptorchidism is a failure of one or both
testicles to descend into the scrotum and is seen in all domestic animals.
Predisposing factors include testicular hypoplasia, estrogen exposure in pregnancy,
breech labor compromising blood supply to the testes, and delayed closure of the
umbilicus resulting in an inability to increase abdominal pressure. Bilateral
cryptorchidism results in sterility. Unilateral cryptorchidism is more common, and
the male is usually fertile due to sperm production from the normally descended
testicle. The undescended testicle may be located anywhere from just caudal of the
kidney to within the inguinal canal. Abdominal testicles produce male hormones,
and cryptorchid animals have normal secondary sex characteristics and mating
behavior. Because of the inherited nature of the condition, unilateral cryptorchids
should not be used for breeding.
Hermaphrodites:
Dennis (1979) studied the urogenital system in 401 sheep over a three years
period. Male pseudohermaphroditism was found in 3(0.75%) lambs.
Bosu and Basrur (1984) studied the ovine intersex to compare their morphological
and hormonal features in light of their cytogenetic make-up. Both animals,
registered as females at birth, developed male-like appearance and behaviour as
they approached the age of sexual maturity. Plasma testosterone concentrations in
the intersexes were similar to those in adult males of the respective species.
Hafez (1995) said that an intersex is an animal that presents congenital anatomical
variations that confuse the diagnosis of sex. This animal possesses the reproductive
organs of both sexes, or may belong genetically to one sex and phenotypically to

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the other. The term intersex includes hermaphrodites, pseudo-hermaphrodites,
freemartins, and other forms of sexual inversion.
Smith et al. (1998) studied abnormalities of the reproductive tract of female sheep
at two abattoirs in the Southwest of England over a period of 12 months. During
the survey 9,970 reproductive tracts from cull ewes and 23,536 tracts from
nulliparous sheep (prime lambs and hoggets) were examined. 11 animals were
intersex.
Capel and Coveney (2004) said that in hermaphrodite both female and male
gonads are present. When the gonads of one sex are present with the phenotype of
the opposite sex, this condition is called pseudohermaphrodite.
Cinzia et al. (2006) studied nine Sarda x Lacaune ewes with intersexual
characteristics and an infertility condition. The ewes showed basically a female
phenotype but a clinical examination revealed a different degree of masculinization
in the morphology of external genital organs. A shorter vagina was observed in
female-like ewes and a hypertrophic clitoris in male-like ewes.
Kahn and Mays (2008) reported that true hermaphrodites are rare and have both
ovarian and testicular tissue and exhibit anomalies of the external genitalia.
Pseudohermaphrodites are more common; they have one or the other type of gonad
and an anomaly of the external genitalia that resembles, to some degree, that of the
opposite sex.
Teixeira et al. (2010) recorded a case of freemartinism of the XX/XY chimera type
in sheep in Brazil. Anatomopathological examination of the internal genitalia
showed the absence of a cervix and bilateral presence of an ovary and testis.
3-slaughtering:
Ali (2009) reported that the Islamic method of slaughtering with a knife is the least
painful and thus the most humane method of killing an animal.
Emergency slaughter:
Herenda et al. (2000) stated that animals affected with extensive bruising or
fractures require emergency slaughter.

9
Ontario (2006) said that emergency slaughter must be performed in accordance
with the regulations and the carcass must be transported to the approved meat plant
within a specified time.
FAWAC (2009) stated that emergency slaughter means the slaughter of an
otherwise healthy animal which has suffered an injury that prevented its transport
to the slaughterhouse for welfare reasons.
FSAI (2010) reported that food business operators must ensure that meat from
animals that have undergone emergency slaughter outside the slaughterhouse may
be used for human consumption only if it complies with all the following
requirements:
o Healthy animal suffered an accident.
o Inspected at ante-mortem by a veterinarian.
o If slaughtered, must be transported to the slaughterhouse hygienically and
without delay.
o If more than two hours elapse between slaughter and arrival at the
slaughterhouse, the animal must be refrigerated.
o Accompanied by declaration stating by identify of the animal and any
treatments administered to the animal, dates of administration and
withdrawal periods as well as reason for emergency slaughter.
o Approved to be fit for human consumption after post-mortem inspection.
o Food business operators must define use of this meat.
Imperfect bleeding:
Gracey et al. (1999) stated that in case of pyrexia the prescapular lymph nodes are
suffused with blood but not enlarged. Where pyrexia and systemic changes are
evident, total condemnation is warranted since badly bled-carcasses rapidly
undergo decomposition. Less severe afebrile cases may justify a more favorable
judgment.
Herenda et al. (2000) stated that septicemia is a morbid condition caused by the
presence of pathogenic bacteria and their associated toxins in the blood. The
positive diagnosis of septicemia can only be made by isolation of the causative
organism from the blood stream. Postmortem findings include enlarged edematous
or hemorrhagic lymph nodes, degenerative changes in parenchymatous organs
(liver, heart and kidneys), congestion and petechial or ecchymotic hemorrhages in
kidney, heart surface, mucous and serous membranes, connective tissue,
inadequately bled-out carcass as a result of high fever and blood stained serous
exudate in abdominal and/or thoracic cavities.

10
Wilson et al. (2005) stated that imperfect bleeding (insufficiency of bleeding)
occurs when the animal is moribund (dying) or very distressed and is said to have
been killed to save its life. The flesh is dark, there is capillary bleeding, the organs,
particularly the liver, lungs and kidneys, are dark and congested and when cut,
blood runs out. The intercostals veins are full of blood and are clearly visible. The
forelegs often tend to be tucked up. The carcass sets badly and decomposes
rapidly.
Fernandes (2009) stated that imperfect bleeding at slaughter can however indicate
a diseased condition in the slaughter animal. Congestion of tissues due to an active
hyperemia associated with pyrexia must therefore be differentiated from that
resulting from imperfect bleeding of mechanical etiology when carcasses are
assessed in respect to their fitness for human consumption.
Cold slaughter:
DiMaio and DiMaio (2002) stated that in determining if the wound was pre- or
post-mortem, the general rule is that a pre-mortem wound gapes and bleeds
profusely while a postmortem wound does not.
Jain (2004) stated that postmortem wound usually create very little or no bleeding
from broken arteries and veins as the heart is not pumping the blood.
Merck (2007) stated that to determine whether a wound was antemortem or
postmortem require gross examination. The presence of hemorrhage is indicative
that the heart was still beating when the injury occurred. If there is sufficient
survival time after injury prior to death, it is possible to see evidence of an
inflammatory response in the injured area.
Delay evisceration:
Gill et al. (1978) reported that hygiene regulations require that carcasses be
eviscerated soon after slaughter to prevent agonal invasion of the tissues. There is
no scientific justification for believing that bacteria rapidly leave the gut at the time
of death. Bacteria in fact remain confined within the intestines until they are
released by autolytic action, which requires days, not minutes, at temperate
ambient temperatures.
Gill and Penney (1979) stated that any bacteria likely to be of importance in deep-
tissue spoilage of carcasses from meat animals must therefore be present before
death or be introduced into the body during the killing process. Meat inspection

11
should eliminate most diseased carcasses, and although the extent to which
symptomless infections occur is not known, it is possible that entry of bacteria
during slaughter is a major cause of deep-tissue contamination. The importance of
such bacteria for meat hygiene depends upon their ability to survive and multiply
in carcasses.
Zdravković et al. (2006) reported that, autolysis represents the intravital or post
mortal disintegration of living structures, and biochemically corresponds to a loss
in the system of metabolic balance with demotion of the metabolic substance
which results in energy and material loss.
Bergh (2007) reported that evisceration means the removal of the viscera or
internal organs from the carcass. Evisceration of the carcass should be performed
within two hours after bleeding. The rumen and intestines may be removed in the
field to prevent bloating.
Fernandes (2009) stated that as aesthetics, there are some very practical reasons
why evisceration should not be excessively delayed. Within a few hours of
slaughter, distention of the stomach and intestines make their removal without
rupture difficult, and bile may stain the liver and surrounding tissue if rumen
distention squeezes bile from the gall bladder.
4-Routine postmortem inspection:
Herenda et al. (2000) stated that the aim of meat inspection is to provide safe and
wholesome meat for human consumption. The responsibility for achieving this
objective lies primarily with the relevant public health authorities who are
represented by veterinarians and meat inspectors at the abattoir stage.
Routine postmortem examination of a carcass should be carried out as soon as
possible after the completion of dressing in order to detect any abnormalities so
that products only conditionally fit for human consumption are not passed as food.
All organs and carcass portions should be kept together and correlated for
inspection before they are removed from the slaughter hall.
Stamp:
Bergh (2007) stated that all stamps or roller marks used to mark any carcass or
meat must be constructed of a nontoxic, non-corrosive material and must be so
constructed as to be readily cleanable. The letters on the stamps must be readable.
Colored ink is required where stamps are applied to carcasses or meat and must be
manufactured of harmless, edible ingredients approved for use on foodstuffs. The

12
stamp of approval must be kept and used under control of a registered inspector;
when not in use the stamp must be secured by a registered inspector and kept in
safe custody.
Amin et al. (2010) stated that carmoisine are an organic azo dyes widely used in
food products, drugs and cosmetics.
Ontario (2011) stated that meat Inspection Legend: Every edible dressed carcass or
part of a carcass that has passed inspection must be legibly stamped with the
inspection legend before refrigeration. Only edible ink may be used to directly
mark meat or products with the inspection legend.
5-Common affections:
**General body conditions:
Poorness:
Herenda et al. (2000) stated that leanness (Poorness) is often observed in case of
poor quality pasture and young growing animals which have had protein deficient
diet. The animals are physiologically normal and the reduced fat deposits of the
animal carcass are normal in color and consistency. The reduced muscle tissue is
firm and of a normal consistency. The muscle color is darker than normal, and fat
tissue may still be present in the orbit of the eye.
FSIS (2009) reported that a thin animal may be a normal animal with small
amounts of body fat.
Emaciation:
Ogilvie (1998) said that starvation and emaciation may be caused by a primary lack
of feed or secondary to parasitism or a disease process that causes anorexia, an
increase in metabolic rate, or both. Necropsy findings are diagnostic (serous
atrophy of fat).
Radostits et al. (2000) stated that in domestic ruminants, cobalt deficiency results
in inappetence and loss of body weight, emaciation, weakness, decreased growth,
unthrifty appearance, diarrhea, and anemia.
Kusiluka and Kambarage (2006) reported that the occurrence of diseases such as
helminthosis, coccidiosis, trypanosomosis, anaplasmosis, babesiosis and
ectoparasitic infestations is precipitated by poor nutrition of the animals.

13
Barhoom and Abu Bakr (2008) recorded that, mange occurred in a flock of sheep
usually accompanied by emaciation, weakness and reduced milk production.
Jibat et al. (2008) studied and determined the rate of organs and carcasses
condemned and the associated annual financial loss at HELMEX abattoir in
Ethiopia. Out of 2688 sheep and goats examined 188(7%) carcasses were
condemned due to poor body condition for carcasses.
Kahn and Mays (2008) stated that emaciation may be associated with chronic
diseases and parasitic conditions: fascioliasis in sheep, neoplasm, tuberculosis,
John's disease, caseous lymphadenitis, and poor teeth and lack of nutrition.
Emaciation is a postmortem descriptive term which should be differentiated from
thinness. Postmortem finding include serious atrophy of fat in the carcass and
organs especially the pericardial and renal fat. The fat is watery, translucent or
jelly-like and hangs from the intervertebral spaces. Edema and anemia may
develop due to starvation and malnutrition due to parasite infestation. On
postmortem examination it is important to assess and differentiate emaciation from
leanness. In case of doubt, the carcass may be held in the refrigerated room and the
general setting of the carcass should be examined on the following day. If the body
cavities are relatively dry, edema of muscle tissue is not present and fat is of an
acceptable consistency i.e. has “set”, thecarcassmaybe passed for food.
**Yellow fat sheep carcasses:
Yang et al. (1992) reported that carotenoids are pigments found in plants that
cannot be synthesized by animals. Lutein is the only carotenoid in serum and
adipose tissue of sheep, whereas cattle also store β-carotene.
Prache and Theriez (1999) found that yellowness of caudal fat at slaughter was
greater in grass-fed lambs than in stall-fed lambs. And carotenoid pigments could
act as biomarkers of grass-feeding in ruminants.
Herenda et al. (2000) stated that yellow fat in animals with heavy corn rations
should be differentiated from icterus. To differentiate icterus from the normal color
of fat of certain breeds, the sclera, intima of the blood vessels, bone cartilage, liver,
connective tissue and renal pelvis should be examined. If yellow discoloration is
not noted in these tissues, icterus is not present.
Priolo et al. (2002) stated that the signature of carotenoid pigments stored in the
caudal fat has been used to discriminate carcasses of lambs raised on pasture from
those fed concentrates. The concentration of carotenoids in perirenal fat is higher

14
than in caudal fat. They found also that subcutaneous fat was more yellow and
harder in grass fed lamb.
Ripoll et al. (2008) stated that meat from grazing animals has often been associated
with yellow fat.
Vage and Boman (2010) stated that sheep carcasses with yellow fat are
sporadically observed at slaughterhouses. This phenomenon is known to be
inherited as a recessive trait, and is caused by accumulation of carotenoids in
adipose tissue.
Jaundice:
Herenda et al. (2000) stated that icterus is the result of an abnormal accumulation
of bile pigment, bilirubin, or of hemoglobin in the blood. Yellow pigmentation is
observed in the skin, internal organs, sclerae, tendons, cartilage, arteries, joint
surfaces, etc. Icterus is a clinical sign of a faulty liver or bile duct malfunction, but
it may be also caused by diseases in which the liver is not impaired. Jaundice is
divided into three main categories. Prehepatic jaundice occurs following excessive
destruction of red blood cells. Tick-borne diseases such as Babesia ovis and
Anaplasmosis cause this type of icterus. Hepatic jaundice occurs due to direct
damage to liver cells as seen in liver cirrhosis, systemic infections, and in chemical
and plant poisoning. In sheep, jaundice may have been caused by phytogenic
chronic copper poisoning. Obstructive jaundice occurs when the drainage of the
bile pigment bilirubin is blocked from entry into the intestine.
Amer et al. (2002) stated that the secretion of bile pigments due to progressive
cirrhosis and blocking of the bile ducts by mature flukes in sheep infected with F.
hepatica led to the increase in serum bilirubin.
West et al. (2002) stated that ingestion of fresh-water blue-green algae has been
reported as causing liver damage, jaundice and photosensitization in sheep.
Kozat et al. (2003) reported that babesiosis is a protozoan disease, which is
generally characterized by high fever, anorexia, weight loss, ruminal atony,
dyspnea and jaundice of sheep.
Agag (2004) stated that icterus were observed in sheep and goats exposed to
aflatoxin.
Kusiluka and Kambarage (2006) reported that Babesia spp. infections are
widespread among goat and sheep populations in Africa. The necropsy features
include widespread subcutaneous and intramuscular edema, icteric carcass, thin

15
and watery blood, yellow and gelatinous fat. The urinary bladder contains dark
urine. The spleen is enlarged and the splenic pulp is soft. The gall bladder is
distended and contains thick and dark bile.
Taheri et al. (2007) stated that fascioliasis mainly involves the hepatobiliary
system and manifests in 2 stages: hepatic (acute, invasive) and biliary (chronic).
Obstructive jaundice and recurrent cholangitis may occur in the biliary stage.
Kahn and Mays (2008) stated that sporidesmins are secondary metabolites of the
saprophytic fungus Pithomyces chartarum, which grows on dead pasture litter. The
sporidesmins are excreted via the biliary system, in which they produce severe
cholangitis and pericholangitis as a result of tissue necrosis. Biliary obstruction
may be seen, which restricts excretion of bile pigments and results in jaundice.
Tafti et al. (2008) reported that salinomycin is an ionophore compound that may
be used in sheep as growth promoter or to prevent coccidiosis in these species.
There are some reports with respect to the poisoning of animals with this agent
used in high concentration in feed by mistake. Postmortem examination included
swelling of liver with mild to moderate yellowish appearance.
Woube (2008) observed icteric liver at a rate of 0.9% in young sheep and jaundice
in whole carcass was observed at a rate of 1.8% in adult sheep.
Giadinis et al. (2009) reported the pathological finding in sheep with chronic
copper poisoning. The carcass was icteric, discolored liver and gall bladder and
spleen were distended, while kidneys had a gunmetal color.
Kaur et al. (2009) found that Dicrocoelium dendriticum (lancet fluke) was
recovered during postmortem examination from the biliary duct of 5 sheep from a
flock of 250 sheep in India. The sheep showed symptoms of respiratory distress,
diarrhea, severe anemia and jaundice.
Oruc et al. (2009) reported that necropsy findings in chronic Cu toxicosis include
tissues that are discolored by icterus.
Edwards and Schock (2010) found that obstructive jaundice and
photosensitization occurred in a 9-month-old lamb as a sequela to a diaphragmatic
hernia. A loop of proximal duodenum was displaced, resulting in occlusion of the
common bile duct, cholecystitis and necrotizing hepatitis.

16
** Rough handling injuries:
Tarrant (1989) stated that laceration and carcass bruising are the result of fighting
and rough handling.
Cockram and Lee (1991) reported that greater percentage of bruised carcasses was
found in lambs (71%) than in ewes (49%). A greater percentage of severely
bruised carcasses were found in lambs from markets (20%) than in those direct
from farms (12%). However, even assuming that each potentially traumatic event
observed in the slaughterhouse caused a bruise, only about one-quarter of the
bruising could have been attributed to handling problems at the slaughterhouse.
88% of all bruises were estimated to have been caused within about 24 hours of
death, indicating that most bruising probably was caused by handling problems
during loading on the farm, during transit and particularly at markets.
Jarvis and Cockram (1994) examined 2509 sheep carcass for bruises using logistic
model to examine the effects of seven variables on the risk of bruising. More space
per animal, transport on the lower deck or at the front of the vehicle, and increased
handling, all increased the risk of bruising. There were some significant
correlations between potentially bruising events and bruising on specific parts of
the body. Significant bruising of sheep carcasses, particularly the neck and hind
quarters, has been directly linked to wool-pulling and rough handling by human
handlers.
Knowles et al. (1994) stated that carcass quality can be adversely affected due to
bruising on transport.
Green et al. (1995) examined 3718 lambs, in England. Bruising was one of the
most frequent causes of carcass rejection.
Jago et al. (1996) said that bruising of slaughter animals has both economic and
welfare implications.
Edwards et al. (1997) reported that bruising occurs due to beating of animals
during transportation and the use of rough vehicles. Apart from affecting carcass
value, bruising has also animal welfare implications as excessive use of sticks
while driving to the abattoir, mishandling of animals during loading and unloading,
improper transport vehicle and at slaughter could be responsible causes. Bruising
has also an implication for animal welfare as excessive use of sticks while driving
animals to the abattoir is greatly responsible for this phenomenon.

17
Hoffman et al. (1998) reported that bruised meat cannot be used for human food.
More than a fourth of all lamb bruises (27%) occur on the leg, while (17%) occur
on the loin. The most common cause of bruising is grabbing sheep by the wool or
by the hind leg. Use a "pet" sheep to lead them.
Rubin (1998) stated that laceration is a cut that results in a jagged wound in the
skin. Lacerations can be shallow cuts or deep gashes that penetrate through muscle
to internal organs and bone. A superficial laceration involves only the skin, and
because there is no penetration of major blood vessels. A deeper laceration may
penetrate veins or arteries, and in some cases, the blood vessel may require repair.
Causes of lacerations include accidents and violence.
Gracey et al. (1999) said that recent injection sites may appear as an area of
discoloration or bruising, but frequently deep intramuscular injections can only be
detected as a very slight swelling or lack of symmetry in the muscle. Long standing
injection sites, particularly those that incorporated an oily base, may be hard,
fibrous nodules within a muscle. During meat inspection all carcasses with
injection sites should be retained and judgment made according to case history, the
time of treatment and laboratory results.
Herenda et al. (2000) said that bruises caused by transportation or handling are
commonly found in sheep in the hind leg. Bruises and hemorrhage in the hip joint
are caused by rough handling of animals during shackling.
Bendavid et al. (2001) stated that hernias emerge through preformed or acquired
defects or weak areas of the abdominal wall unprotected by muscle or aponeurosis.
These defects could be evolutionary or a patent umbilical defect at birth. The
weakness could be an acquired scar such as umbilicus, or a poorly healed
abdominal incision or scared over defect resulting from loss of part of the
abdominal wall through trauma.
Chambers and Grandin (2001) reported that a physical blow or rough handling
leading to bruising or other animal injury can result in parts of the carcass being
condemned. Bruised meat is dark and bloody and must be removed for the carcass
to pass federal inspection standards. This type of meat spoils rapidly and its
appearance lacks consumer appeal.
Grandin (2001) reported that bruise results from a blood vessel hemorrhaging
under the hide. The outside of the animal can appear normal even when there is a
large injury under the hide.

18
Broom (2003) said that measurements of injuries, bruises, mortality, morbidity and
carcass quality are often used as indicators of welfare during handling and
transportation. Mortality records give information about welfare during the
journey, while bruises, scratches, blemishes, broken bones and incidences provide
information about the welfare of the animals during handling, transportation and
lairage. It is observed that hitting animals by stock handlers and vehicle obstruction
due to rough driving increases injuries in transported animals.
Jutzi (2004) stated that on postmortem examination, carcasses affected with local
bruising are approved after being trimmed. Carcasses affected with bruises or
injuries associated with inflammatory lesions are also approved if tissue reaction
does not extend beyond the regional lymph nodes. The affected area should be
condemned. When bruises or injuries associated with systemic changes and the
wholesomeness of the musculature is lost, the carcass must be condemned.
St Jean and Anderson (2004) stated that inguinal hernia is relatively common in
rams. Scrotal hernia is merely an extension of an inguinal hernia. Congenital
inguinal hernia is rare but it may result in evisceration at castration. Acquired
inguinal hernias occur in mature rams.
Eppleston (2005) studied lesions at the site of vaccination in New Zealand. The
prevalence of lesions observed in the slaughter survey was 18% for mutton and
65% for lamb carcasses.
Dehghani and Nasrollahy (2006) reported that traumatic ventral abdominal hernia
is common in sheep. Acquired abdominal hernia may result from trauma such as
vehicle accident and horning injuries. Hernia contents were variable and consisted
of omentum, small intestine, spiral colon and abomasum.
Goelz (2006) said that broken legs are generally the most obvious of sheep injuries.
The prognosis depends on its location, severity and the age of sheep. Contaminated
bones do not heal. In the case of lambs amputation may be an option but three
legged lambs will have a severely docked carcass as the muscle development is not
uniform.
Southern et al. (2006) stated that physical, microbial, and environmental hazards
during the transportation process may adversely affect the safety and quality of
meat. Additionally, the stress level in animals can be raised by transportation
conditions, potentially causing increased pathogen shedding in carrier animals
which exposes other animals to possible contamination.

19
Aitken (2007) said that scrotal hernias can cause infertility in rams owing to raised
intrascrotal temperature. Inguinal hernias are usually a consequence of raised intra-
abdominal pressure, as might occur among lambs on artificial or highly
fermentable diets. The pressure is believed to force intestinal loops through the
inguinal ring to become visible as a swelling at the groin and inner thigh. Ventral
abdominal hernias usually occur in the later stages of pregnancy.
Al-Sobayil and Ahmed (2007) examined 44 clinical cases of sheep suffering from
abdominal, umbilical, inguinal or scrotal hernias in Veterinary Teaching Hospital,
College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia.
These animals had abdominal (30), umbilical (6), inguinal (7) and scrotal (1)
hernias. The results revealed that, gender had an effect on the incidence of hernia.
The incidence of abdominal hernia was higher in females and the incidence of
inguinal hernia was higher in males.
Jibat et al. (2008) estimated the annual financial loss due to organ and carcass
condemnation at HELMEX abattoir in Ethiopia. They attributed 40% of losses to
human mistakes either during transportation of animals to the slaughterhouse or in
the slaughterhouse during slaughter operation. Bruising caused more than half of
all carcasses condemned.
Al-Sadi and Younis (2010) recorded the prevalence of naturally occurring oral
lesions in 1130 sheep in Mosul, Iraq. The prevalence of broken mouth was 5.84%.
Grandin (2010) reported that extensive bruising is often caused by grabbing sheep
by their wool or trampled in a truck during transport.
Jackman and Hathaway (2010) determined the average prevalence of wounds and
bruises in adult sheep recorded by meat inspectors (2001 to 2010) is 2.65%.
Warriss (2010) reported that carcass damage can take the form of bruising and
hemorrhages, bruised meat therefore looks unsightly and usually trimmed,
reducing yield as well as frequently leading to downgrading. The coast of this
downgrading may be greater than the value of the trimmed meat. In term of
quality, in red meat species bruising is an aesthetic rather than a hygiene problem.
Chaudhry et al. (2011) predicted animals can get wounded at the farm, during
transportation, or at the abattoir by getting strike against some hard object, kicked
by another animal or by goads.

20
**Pyogenic affections:
Abscess:
Fetcher (1983) stated that septicemia or extension of an umbilical vein infection
can cause liver abscesses in lambs.
Braun et al. (1995) found that a two-year-old White Alpine ram with suppurative
pleuropneumonia and a lung abscess.
Rodwan (1996) reported that abscess disease of sheep, commonly known as
Morel's disease (caused by Staph. aureus subsp. anaerobius) and caseous
lymphadenitis known as pseudotuberculosis (caused by C. pseudotuberculosis)
deserves interest because of its contagious nature and worldwide distribution.
de la Fuente et al. (1997) reported an outbreak of abscess disease caused by Staph.
aureus subsp. anaerobius occurring in a 250 Assaf sheep flock located in
Salamanca, Spain. Clinical cases were first detected 3 weeks after shearing which
considered risk factor most probably associated with the outbreak.
Nagaraja and Chengappa (1998) reported that erosion of the ruminal epithelium
secondary to grain overload, lactic acidosis and ruminitis is thought to be the most
common mechanism allowing bacteria like Fusobacterium necrophorum
colonization of the liver.
Edwards et al. (1999) investigated the feasibility of using information about the
health and management of lambs on farms to predict the risk of gross abnormalities
at postmortem meat inspection, 6732 lambs from 30 different farms in Great
Britain were followed through to slaughter in 1995/6. One of the most common
abnormalities found during postmortem inspection was abscesses (30%). The
farm-level risk factors associated with abnormalities at slaughter varied with the
type of lesion. The most significant risk factor was the age of the lambs at
slaughter. Lambs slaughtered at an older age were more likely to have an
abnormality, especially abscesses.
Herenda et al. (2000) stated that grassland in many parts of Africa contains
scattered grasses with spear-like seeds. These seeds may penetrate through the
wool and skin to the subcutis, and further through to the abdominal wall into the
abdominal cavity of sheep causing abscessation.

21
Moller et al. (2000) reported that the occurrence of abscess disease & caseous
lymphadenitis in sheep in Denmark. Subcutaneous abscesses were observed in
imported 4-5 months old lambs of the Lacaune breed 10 days after arrival in
Denmark. Abscesses were mostly located in the head, neck and shoulder regions
close to the regional lymph nodes. Bacteriological examinations revealed growth
of Staph. aureus subsp. anaerobius in all animals with subcutaneously located
abscesses containing a viscous white-yellow odorless mass. In addition, C.
pseudotuberculosis was isolated from abscesses in one animal.
Teixeira et al. (2001) stated that the presence of granulomas produced by adult
trematodes, their eggs or even their remnants in the liver portal triads act as foci for
colonization of Staphylococcus species, which in the presence of staphylococcal
bacteremia might be implicated in the formation of pyogenic liver abscesses.
Navarre and pugh (2002) said that liver abscesses can occur in feedlot lambs and
other animals fed ration high in grain. Most cases of liver abscesses are an
incidental finding but rarely weight loss, anorexia, depression and decreased
production (grown, milk) may occur.
Al-Qudah and Al-Majali (2003) studied the causal agents a total of 337 liver
abscesses of Awassi sheep that were found in different slaughterhouses in Jordan.
Fifteen different bacterial species were isolated from 297 liver abscesses. No
bacteria were isolated from the remaining 40 liver abscesses. Fusobacterium
necrophorum biovar B were isolated from 195 (58%) abscesses. Arcanobacterium
pyogenes, F. necrophorum biovar A, E. coli and Cl. perfringens were isolated from
41 (12%), 34 (10%), 30 (9%) and 17 (5%) liver abscesses, respectively. It was
suggested that F. necrophorum biovar B is the most prevalent bacterium
incriminated for liver abscesses in Awassi sheep.
Arsenault et al. (2003) determined the prevalence and lesions distribution of
caseous lymphadenitis in sheep. A total of 451 ewes and 34 rams were selected
randomly from two slaughterhouses in Quebec, Canada. Diagnosis was based on
gross detection of abscesses and isolation of C. pseudotuberculosis. The
prevalence of caseous lymphadenitis was ≥21%. The most-prevalent site of lesions
was the thoracic cavity. The risk of carcass condemnation was significantly
associated with region, body score and abscesses.
Cabrera et al. (2003) carried diagnostic surveys in National slaughtering plants in
Uruguay in1998 on sheep. Out of 2035 animals examined, abscesses (0.4%) in the
liver parenchyma were found.

22
Asrat (2004) stated that occasionally the worms penetrate the bile duct wall into
the liver parenchyma causing liver abscesses.
Babiker and El Sanousi (2004) studied the relation of fattening to abscess disease
in sheep in Sudan. The incidence of the disease was found to be higher in feedlot
areas (62.5%) compared to natural grazing areas (5.8%). Pus, sweat and serum
samples were collected from both fat and non-fat sheep. Bacteria isolated from pus
samples of feedlots were Staph. aureus subsp. anaerobius (75%),
Corynebacterium spp. (15.8%), mixed infection of Staph. aureus subsp.
anaerobius and Corynebacterium spp. (8.3%) and 2.5% of samples were
bacteriologically negative.
Ghadrdan-Mashhadi et al. (2006) studied the occurrence of liver abscesses and
bacterial agents caused them in 576 sheep slaughtered in Ahvaz abattoir in Iran in
2005. 50 sheep (8.7%) had liver abscesses. The rate of liver abscesses in male and
female was 5.9% and 11.4%, respectively. Most of the abscesses found in the right
lobes (60%) and in diaphragmatic surface (60%) of the livers due to being more
exposure of these parts to the portal vein blood stream. The following bacteria
were isolated: A. pyogenes (23 cases), Staph. aureus (22 cases), Cl. teteni (9 cases),
E. coli (9 cases) and P. aeruginosa (1 case). In six cases, the abscesses were sterile.
The presence of these isolated bacteria indicated abscesses forming following
ruminitis and reaching bacterial flora from rumen to liver. They concluded that,
liver is particularly susceptible to abscesses because it receives blood from several
sources, including the hepatic artery, the portal system and the umbilical vein in
fetus and neonate.
El-Dakhly et al. (2007) reported that liver abscesses may occur as a result of
entrance of pyogenic cocci or other well organized pus-producing species to the
liver through different routes. These microorganisms play a central role in the
generalized and fatal disease.
Johnson (2007) reported that Rhodococcus equi is a pleomorphic, Gram’s-positive
obligate intracellular bacterium most commonly residing in the soil where there are
abundant avian or herbivore feces. Rhodo. equi is a common pathogen in foals and
has also been documented to cause abscessed lymph nodes in sheep.
Bell (2008) stated that tuberculosis and caseous lymphadenitis are both contagious
conditions that potentially lead to lung abscesses. Tuberculosis is a rare condition
in sheep but has been found in animals aged two years and older that have had
close contact with TB-infected cattle.

23
Jibat et al. (2008) recorded the rate of organs and carcasses condemned and the
associated annual financial loss at HELMEX abattoir in Ethiopia in the period
from December 2005 to June 2006. Out of 1152 sheep examined, 214 (7.9%)
hearts and 188 (7%) carcasses were condemned. One of the major causes of
condemnation was abscess in heart (4.2%).
O'Reilly et al. (2008) stated that abscesses may develop from any case of
suppurative pneumonia with possible pathogens including Staphylococcus spp. and
Streptococcus spp.; Infection by Corynebacterium ovis also has been recorded
which typically presents as sub-clinical, with abscesses in the lungs and associated
thoracic (bronchial and mediastinal) lymph nodes.
Woube (2008) determined the major diseases of organ and carcass condemnation
and the magnitude of the direct losses attributed to the condemned organs and
carcasses from 114 sheep (50 adult & 64 young) slaughtered in HELIMEX
abattoir, Ethiopia during the period of December 2007 to April 2008. Abscessation
in liver was observed at a rate of 2(1.8%), including adult 7(6.1%) and young
1(0.9%); While generalized abscessation was observed at a rate of 1(0.9%) in adult
sheep.
Ivanovic et al. (2009) stated that it is possible the dissemination of bacteria
through blood consequently with abscess development in lungs, liver and kidneys.
Al-Sadi and Younis (2010) investigated the prevalence and pathology of naturally
occurring oral lesions in 1130 sheep in Mosul area, Iraq. The prevalence of oral
abscesses was 0.18%.
Clement et al. (2010) detected abscesses in 1.04% out of 1763 sheep slaughtered in
the period (2000–2005) at the Zango abattoir in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.
88.38% of the affected organs were trimmed while 11.6% whole organs were
condemned.
de la Fuente et al. (2010) stated that Staph. aureus subsp. anaerobius, a
microaerophilic and catalase-negative bacterium, is the etiological agent of abscess
disease, a specific chronic condition of sheep and goats, which is characterized by
formation of necrotic lesions that are located typically in superficial lymph nodes.
El-Tahawy (2010) monitored prevalence of abscesses among 10,080 Barki sheep
belonging to 22 farms in Egypt. The results showed that the overall prevalence of
abscesses in adult sheep was 16%, with the greatest prevalence of the disease in the
spring. He estimated abscesses cost as 21 Egyptian pounds for rams and 15.6

24
Egyptian pounds for ewes. These disparities in cost were attributable to the
differences in weight between the genders.
Jackman and Hathaway (2010) stated that the most common abnormalities
detected in the hepatic lymph nodes include enlargement, abscessation and
calcification.
Pyemia:
Vautor et al. (2005) reported that Staph. aureus is a pathogen that causes a
syndrome of lamb pyemia/septicemia.
Kahn and Mays (2008) reported that pyemic abscesses are common in joints but
may be found in virtually any organ. The cause is Staph. aureus which has been
isolated consistently from superficial and deep-seated lesions.
FSIS (2009) reported that pyemia is a condition of public health significance
resulting from the active circulation of pyogenic organisms in the blood. It is
typically characterized by the development of acute suppurative lesions throughout
the carcass tissues and organs.
Marianelli et al. (2010) reported a rare case of generalized bovine-type
tuberculosis in a slaughtered 4-year-old ewe discovered during routine surveillance
at an abattoir. A postmortem examination revealed lesions in the ewe's thoracic and
abdominal cavities, ranging from encapsulated, mineralized foci to extensive, soft,
caseous tissue. Lesions in the lungs, liver, and lymph nodes were consistent with
mycobacterial infection. Acid-fast bacteria, characterized as Mycobacterium bovis,
were isolated from lesions following 38 days of incubation.
Caseous lymphadenitis:
de la Fuente et al. (1993) reported that Staph. aureus subsp. anaerobius, is the
etiological agent of abscess disease, cause a specific lymphadenitis of sheep and
goats.
Paton et al. (1994) stated that caseous lymphadenitis is one of the most prevalent
diseases of sheep in Australia, and as a consequence, has an economic impact due
to reduced wool production by infected animals and condemnation of carcasses
and skin in abattoirs.

25
Pepin et al. (1994) reported that caseous lymphadenitis is a chronic disease of
sheep and goats caused by C. pseudotuberculosis. It is characterized by abscesses
in lymph nodes, subcutaneous tissue and other organs.
Peel et al. (1997) stated that C. pseudotuberculosis produces lesions similar to
those of tuberculosis. It is known world-wide to cause pseudotuberculosis or
caseous lymphadenitis in adult sheep. Usually the large superficial lymph nodes
are affected but occasionally abscessation of the nodes of the internal organs may
also occur. Severe economic losses result from unthriftiness and death of some
sheep and from condemnation of infected carcasses at slaughter.
Al-Rawashdeh and Al-Qudah (2000) studied the effect of shearing on the
incidence of caseous lymphadenitis in a total of 876 sheep from five flocks in
North Jordan. They concluded that the prevalence of caseous lymphadenitis
increases with age and the incidence increases only in young and aged sheep after
shearing under unhygienic conditions.
Herenda et al. (2000) said that postmortem finding in caseous lymphadenitis
included caseous abscesses in the superficial lymph nodes, carcass musculature
and firm and dry abscess in the kidney and other organs. In the early stages of the
disease there are soft pasty abscesses that change to firm and dry with a
characteristic laminated appearance in the later stages of disease.
Cetinkaya et al. (2002) estimated the prevalence of caseous lymphadenitis in sheep
slaughtered at the local abattoir in Elazig province, Turkey. Among 2,046 sheep
carcasses examined 89 abscessed lymph nodes were collected. Corynebacterium
spp. strains were isolated from 81.4% of the abscesses. The prevalence was 3.5%
in sheep.
Prescott et al. (2002) said that the optimal method of control of caseous
lymphadenitis of sheep caused by C. pseudotuberculosis is eradication of infection
by identification and removal of infected carrier animals.
Cabrera et al. (2003) detected caseous lymphadenitis in 3% of the liver
parenchyma among 2,035 sheep slaughtered in Uruguay.
Paton et al. (2003) studied 223 sheep flocks in Australia to estimate the prevalence
of caseous lymphadenitis. They estimated the prevalence as 26%.
Yosefbiagy et al. (2004) identified the causative agent of caseous lymphadenitis in
pre-scapular lymph nodes of sheep, bacteria isolated included C.

26
pseudotuberculosis (79.3%), Arcano. pyogenes (9.4%), Staph. aureus (7.5%)
and Strept. alphahemolytica (3.8%).
Dorella et al. (2006) stated that C. pseudotuberculosis is the etiological agent of
caseous lymphadenitis, a common disease in small ruminant populations
throughout the world. Once established, it is difficult to eradicate because drug
therapy is not effective and because the clinical detection of infected animals is of
limited efficiency.
O'Reilly et al. (2008) stated that caseous lymphadenitis is an infectious disease of
sheep caused by C. pseudotuberculosis. It is prevalent in most sheep producing
countries and was introduced into the UK sheep population in 1991. The pathogen
invades the host through epithelium and forms an abscess in the local draining
lymph node. Typically, disease presents as clinical, swollen lymph nodes (the
parotid, submandibular, prefemoral, prescapular, popliteal or mammary) or sub-
clinical, with abscesses in the lungs and associated thoracic (bronchial and
mediastinal) lymph nodes.
Al-Gaabary et al. (2009) examined 977 sheep to determine epidemiological,
clinical and preventive measures associated with caseous lymphadenitis. The
prevalence was (23.33%) in sheep. The disease prevalence was significantly higher
in females (19.67%) than in males (12.42%). Higher prevalence was recorded in
animals of the age group from 1 to 2 years (47.36%) followed by animals of the
age group over 2 years (18.69%) and lastly of the age group under 1 year (3.07%).
The clinical picture appeared in the form of enlargement and abscessation of the
superficial lymph nodes. Parotid lymph nodes were the most commonly affected
nodes in sheep. The superficial lymph nodes of the anterior body half showed the
highest infection rate. C. pseudotuberculosis was detected in (90.07%) of the
clinically infected cases. The disease was significantly higher in private flocks
(45.52%) than in governmental flock (1.59%). Control measures using penicillin at
day zero of shearing in addition to disinfection of shearing instrument and wounds
greatly reduced the disease.
Ferrer et al. (2009) suggested bacteriological examination of urine culture for
isolation of C. pseudotuberculosis to detect subclinically affected animals.
FSIS (2009) stated that caseous lymphadenitis is a disease of sheep and goats
caused by the C. pseudotuberculosis. Postmortem findings may include, enlarged
abscessed lymph nodes with greenish white-yellow caseous exudate, which tends
to become dry and granular, cross-sections of lesions contain remnants of
connective tissue capsules (resembles the concentric rings seen on the cut surface
of an onion). Lesions found in many lymph nodes, especially the subiliac,

27
superficial cervical, deep popliteal, tracheobronchial, and mediastinal lymph
nodes, as well as lungs, heart, liver, spleen, and kidneys.
Guimaraes et al. (2009) stated that C. pseudotuberculosis is the etiologic agent of
caseous lymphadenitis, which is a serious, economically important problem for
sheep production. They recorded highest frequency in adult animals over one year.
Al-Gaabary et al. (2010) studied some epidemiological and histopathological
aspects associated with caseous lymphadenitis in 692 slaughtered sheep at Tanta
abattoir, Egypt. The prevalence of caseous lymphadenitis was (26.92%).The higher
prevalence was recorded in animals of the age group over 2 years (51.35%) than
those from 1 to 2 years (8.84%) and under 1 year (7.5%).
Jackman and Hathaway (2010) recorded condemnation rate for those carcasses
detained for caseous lymphadenitis in New Zealand, it was around (1.4%) and this
includes those carcasses that display evidence of systemic involvement.
Orchitis:
Dénes and Glávits (1994) recorded that Brucella ovis infection from Thirty-three
out of the 55 pairs of epididymides and testicles (60%) showed gross lesions
(chronic epididymitis associated with the formation of spermatocele, sperm
granuloma or abscess).
Greig (2000) stated that orchitis in rams can be caused by different bacteria and
often lead to subnormal fertility or infertility.
Chand et al. (2002) recorded cases of epididymo-orchitis caused by Brucella
melitensis in breeding rams in India. Clinical examination of the rams revealed a
marked enlargement and pendulous appearance of the scrotum. The capsule of the
testis was markedly thickened and fibrous adhesions were seen between the skin,
tunica dartos and visceral and parietal layers of tunica vaginalis. A few abscess-
like structures were visible on the serosal surface of the cauda epididymis.
West et al. (2002) stated that epididymitis caused by Actinobacillus seminis,
Brucella ovis, or Histophilus ovis has been observed in ram lambs as young as 6
months of age with swollen testes and gross pathology includes abscesses in both
the epididymis and testes.
Gouletsou et al. (2004) found that in orchitis associated with Arcanobacterium
pyogenes the salient post-mortem findings were initially, subcutaneous edema,

28
fluid in the vaginal cavity, congested and distended vessels, increased size of the
genitalia and a hard dark area inside the testicles; subsequently, there were changes
of size of the genitalia, thickening of scrotum and tunics and presence of fibrin on
the testicular surface; in the long-standing phase of the disorder, there were
induration of scrotum and tunics with adhesion between the tunics and
discoloration of the surface of the genitalia.
Gouletsou and Fthenakis (2006) studied orchitis associated with Arcanobacterium
pyogenes. A. pyogenes was isolated from the preputial cavity and the scrotal skin
of healthy rams, as well as from field cases of ovine orchitis. Intratesticular
inoculation of the organism caused orchitis, by means of clinical, cytological,
seminological, bacteriological and pathological examinations. Although semen
quality was affected and severe histopathological changes were evident,
regeneration of testicular elements were evident at the late stages of the disease.
Ferreras (2007) recorded a case of unilateral suppurative epididymo-orchitis
associated with Salmonella enterica subsp. diarizonae infection is described in a 2-
year-old ram. Gross lesions were characterized by severe enlargement of the scrotal
contents, fibrous adhesions between testicular layers, coexistence of epididymal
abscesses and foci of fibrinous exudate, and testicular atrophy.
Kahn and Mays (2008) stated that acute inflammation of the testis or epididymis
may be caused by trauma, infection (fungal, bacterial, or viral), or testicular
torsion.
**Congenital abnormalities:
Liver:
Johnson et al. (1985) reported that congenital defects, abnormalities of structure or
function present at birth, may be caused by genetic or environmental factors or a
combination of both and in most cases the cause is unknown. Moreover,
developmental defects may be lethal, semi-lethal, or compatible with life causing
aesthetic defects or having no effect on the animal.
Aktan et al. (2001) reported that there are many kinds of described congenital
abnormalities of the liver as agenesis of its lobes, absences of its segments,
deformed lobes, decrease in size of lobes, lobar atrophy, and hypoplastic lobes.

29
Mitchell (2003) indicated that the pathology associated with fascioliasis is caused
by the inflammation of the bile ducts which causes thickening of the lining and
eventually leads to fibrosis that results in reduced flow of the bile and back
pressure builds leading to atrophy of the liver parenchyma and cirrhosis.
Pinto et al. (2005) stated that an outbreak in sheep flock in the Azores Islands of
Portugal in which more than 20% of the sheep were died due to
pithomycotoxicosis (facial eczema) a hepatogenous photosensitization caused by
the mycotoxin sporidesmin, after warm, humid periods during late summer and
autumn. Postmortem finding included biliary fibrosis and distortion of the lobes of
the liver.
Kahn and Mays (2008) stated that sporidesmins are secondary metabolites of the
saprophytic fungus Pithomyces chartarum, which grows on dead pasture litter. The
sporidesmins are excreted via the biliary system. Characteristic liver and bile duct
lesions are seen in all affected animals whether photosensitized or not. In acute
cases showing photodermatitis, livers are initially enlarged, icteric, and have a
marked lobular pattern. Later, there is atrophy and marked fibrosis. The shape is
distorted, and large nodules of regenerated tissue appear on the surface. In
subclinical cases, livers often develop extensive areas in which the tissue is
depressed and shrunken below the normal contour, which distorts and roughens the
capsule. Generally, these areas are associated with fibrosis and thickening of
corresponding bile ducts.
Ilha et al. (2001) recorded an outbreak of spontaneous Senecio brasiliensis
poisoning in grazing sheep in the county of Mata, Brazil. Fifty-one (54.25%) out of
94 sheep were affected, and 50 animals (53.2%) died. This flock of sheep had been
grazing for approximately 7 months in paddocks heavily infested with S.
brasiliensis. Clinical signs included hemoglobinuria. Main necropsy findings, five
sheep developed lethal acute hemolytic crisis, secondary to massive release into
the blood stream of copper accumulated in the liver (hepatogenous chronic copper
poisoning). Other gross findings in those animals included dark brown urine
(hemoglobinuria) and swollen, friable, finely stippled or diffusely dark kidneys.
The main histopathological findings included heavy accumulation of brownish
pigment in macrophages identified as ceroid and rhodanine stainings, respectively.
Those ceroid and copper-laden macrophages were scattered on the remnant hepatic
parenchyma. Main histopathological findings in the kidneys of 5 sheep, that
developed fatal hepatogenous chronic copper poisoning, included accumulation of
hemoglobin and hemosiderin in epithelial tubular cells and hemoglobin casts
(hemoglobinuric nephrosis). Ultrastructural changes in the liver of affected sheep
included accumulation of numerous lipid droplets in the cytoplasm of the

30
hepatocytes and lysosomes containing substances of high electron-density that
corresponded to ceroid-lipofuscin in most of the cases.
Kidneys:
Maxie (1992) stated that when a kidney is small, it may be diagnosed as renal
hypoplasia or renal dysplasia. Both conditions can result in abnormally small
kidneys, but in hypoplasia the kidney is histologically normal apart from its
reduced size. The limited size of hypoplastic kidney is associated with a reduced
number of histologically normal lobules and calyces. Renal dysplasia is broadly
defined as disorganized development of renal parenchyma due to abnormal
glomeruli and primitive cortical tubular epithelia.
Meyer et al. (1996) stated that compensatory kidney hypertrophy was described as
a whole set of changes in the structure and function of the kidney that follows the
reduction of its mass.
Ikeyama et al. (2001) found that at necropsy of renal dysplasia the kidney was
markedly reduced in size, and had a granular surface and pale color. The kidney
had renal papillae.
McGeady et al. (2006) stated that renal agenesis is associated with developmental
failure of one or both ureteric buds. As a consequence of this failure, induction of
the metanephric mass which is required for the formation of renal tubules does not
occur. Survival is not threatened by unilateral renal agenesis, whereas bilateral
renal agenesis is incompatible with life.
Woolf and Hillman (2006) reported that in unilateral renal agenesis individuals
born with non-ectopic, solitary functioning kidneys, with contralateral kidneys
which fail to form. Renal agenesis implies that the embryonic kidney has failed to
begin to form.
Coats (2010) stated that compensatory hypertrophy of the kidney readily develops
when one kidney is lost or congenitally defective. In the case of congenital absence
of one kidney the other will be found homogeneously enlarged, and weighing
nearly the same as the two normal kidneys together. The different regions of the
kidney bear the same relations to each other, each being enlarged in its due
proportion. The function of the kidneys is also completely carried out by the single
one.

31
Rickets:
Pugh (2002) stated that rickets is a disease of young animals caused by a failure of
proper cartilage mineralization. Vitamin D deficiency is the most common cause,
but rickets may occur as a result of deficiencies in phosphorus and calcium.
Pulina and Bencini (2004) stated that young growing animals may be affected by
rickets, which is characterized by defective bone growth. The basic lesion consists
of defective calcification, the persistence of hypertrophic cartilage and swelling of
the osteoepiphyses. The poorly mineralized bones are prone to curvature as a result
of the body’s weight. This condition is most frequently caused by lack of either
vitamin D or P ratio. One factor that may predispose the animal towards such
insufficiencies, and thus to defective bone growth, is the presence of intestinal
parasites.
Mearns et al. (2008) stated that rickets is a disease of the developing skeleton
characterized by abnormal endochondral ossification and defective bone formation,
most commonly caused by a deficiency of vitamin D or phosphorus. Cases of
rickets have been documented in weaned lambs with evidence of vitamin D
deficiency in Scotland.
Dittmer et al. (2009) reported that a skeletal disease with features of rickets and
simple autosomal recessive inheritance has been discovered in Corriedale sheep in
New Zealand. The clinical signs resemble rickets and include decreased growth
rate, thoracic lordosis and angular limb deformities. Gross lesions include
segmental thickening of physes, growth arrest lines, collapse of subchondral bone
of the humeral head, thickened cortices and enthesophytes around distal limb
joints.
**Foreign bodies:
Abo-Shehada et al. (1991) recorded a case of traumatic pericarditis in a 4-month-
old Awassi lamb. About 6 cm long metallic wire was found penetrating the
pericardium and the left ventricle through to the other side of the ventricle wall.
Postmortem finding included that enlarged liver with scattered 3 mm diameter
granulomas.
Rebhun (1995) said that the typical foreign body is a metallic object, such as piece
of wire or nail.

32
Crankson (1997) reported that foreign bodies can reach to the liver by one of three
routes: direct penetration through the abdominal wall, migration from the
gastrointestinal tract, or via the blood stream. Peritonitis or a localized abscess was
most common presentations.
Jones et al. (1997) stated that gangrenous pneumonia typically develops when
contaminated foreign bodies are introduced into the airways.
Hailat et al. (1997) recorded that among 1,453 sheep brought to Veterinary Clinic
in Jordan suffering from rumen impaction. Plastic bags were the most common
(78%) foreign bodies found in the rumen of these sheep.
Radostitis et al. (2000) stated that the toxemia of traumatic hepatitis is usually due
to toxins from Actinomyces (Corynebacterium) pyogenes, Streptococcus and
Staphylococcus spp. and Fusobacterium necrophorum which are implicated in the
lesions by the perforating foreign body.
Calfee and Manning (2002) stated that entrance and migration of foreign objects
through the body tissues lead to many complications that differ according to the
nature of the foreign body and the way of its entrance into the tissues.
Igbokwea et al. (2003) studied rumen impaction in sheep with indigestible foreign
bodies in Nigeria. Rumen indigestible foreign bodies were found in 19.3% out of
540 sheep slaughtered at the Maiduguri abattoir. More females (28.3%) were
affected than males (8.5%). The indigestible foreign bodies were
polythene/cellophane materials, ropes, dry seeds, caked sand, metallic objects,
papers, fibers and hair balls. The polythene/cellophane materials occurred in
(81.6%) of the sheep. Impaction was characterized by emaciation, abdominal
distension and asymmetry, lack of feces in the rectum, foamy salivation,
recumbency and inappetence.
Mohammed (2004) predicted that foreign bodies would be a growing problem for
grazing animals in Sudan, as grazing lands become more and more polluted with
plastics, ropes, hair, wool and metals.
Remi-Adewunmi et al. (2004) recorded that 144(77%) out of 187 total sheep
examined were found to have indigestible garbage weighing 0.3 to 2.5 kg in their
rumen.
Saied et al. (2007) recorded the prevalence rate of foreign bodies in fore stomachs
of sheep regarding of kind, number, position and penetration of them. By

33
systematic random sampling 435 slaughtered sheep have selected from
slaughterhouses in Iran. Statistical analysis showed that 51.3% of animals have no
foreign bodies, 44.4% have non-metallic and 0.9% have metallic foreign bodies.
3.4% have both metallic and non-metallic foreign bodies. There was no significant
association between numbers of foreign bodies with age, sex and pregnancy
condition.
Kahn and Mays (2008) stated that aspiration pneumonia is a pulmonary infection
characterized by inflammation and necrosis caused by inhalation of foreign
material. The severity of the inflammatory response depends on the material
aspirated, the type of bacteria aspirated, and the distribution of aspirated material
in the lungs. Aspiration of vomitus or attempts by animals to eat or drink while
partially choked can result in aspiration pneumonia as well. It may be unilateral or
bilateral. In early stages, the lungs are markedly congested with areas of
interlobular edema. Bronchi are hyperemic and full of froth. The pneumonic areas
tend to be cone-shaped with the base toward the pleura. Suppuration and necrosis
follow, the foci becoming soft or liquefied, reddish brown, and foul smelling.
There usually an acute fibrinous pleuritis, often with pleural exudate.
FSIS (2009) reported that pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the lungs
that may be caused by infectious agents, parasites, physical trauma, or foreign
material inhalation.
Ghurashi et al. (2009) stated that the prevalence of foreign bodies is most likely
due to the increased pollution of grazing lands, and may be attributed to the fact
that most of the animals are grazing freely, also may be due to the shortage of
forages in the dry seasons.
**Parasitic infestation:
Mange:
Demissie et al. (2000) said that mange of sheep and goats is estimated to have
killed about 60% of the diseased small ruminant stock (69.3% of sheep and 57.3%
of goats). Among small ruminants, goats were found to be more susceptible to the
disease than sheep (59.6 and 11.8% of cases, respectively). However, once they are
infested, sheep are known to suffer more seriously than goats.
Fthenakis et al. (2000) reported that mange mites are the notorious ectoparasites
of sheep and are responsible for great economic losses due to damaged skin and

34
wool, anemia, poor physical condition, decreased milk and meat production and
suboptimal lambing and growth rates.
Radostits et al. (2000) stated that Sarcoptes spp. is an important cause of mange in
sheep that leads to itch, dermatitis and loose general body condition. Later on,
vesicles and papules appear, skin becomes thickened, covered with pale scabs and
wool is lost.
Falconi et al. (2002) reported that sheep scab, caused by the mite Psoroptes ovis,
is a notifiable disease in Switzerland.
González-Candela et al. (2004) recorded an outbreak of sarcoptic mange between
1991 and 1995 in Spain; there was a higher infection rate in males (21.9%) than in
females (16.6%). The most common locations of lesions were the neck, head, and
back.
Sargison (2005) stated that sheep scab is a highly contagious and rapidly
progressive disease of sheep of all ages, caused by infestation with the non-
burrowing mite Psoroptes ovis. Sheep scab usually occurs as a flock outbreak with
100% morbidity.
Aatish et al. (2007) detected higher prevalence of mange mite in sheep < 6 month
old (6.9%). In mite infested animals, total erythrocyte count, hemoglobin and
packed cell volume, was found to be lower, while erythrocyte sedimentation rate
and total serum proteins were higher as compared to healthy animals. Additionally,
eosinophilia was also observed in infested sheep.
Tasawar et al. (2007) recorded that the sex or age of sheep had no effect on
prevalence of Psoroptes ovis.
Barhoom and Abu Bakr (2008) recorded an outbreak of Sarcoptes scabiei mange
occurred in a flock of sheep in Palestine during April to August 2007. Skin lesions
were confined to the lips, nostrils, ears and face and characterized by pruritus,
erythema, papule, alopecia and formation of scabs. Animals were suffering from
emaciation, weakness and reduced milk production. The morbidity rate was 100%.
Rahbari et al. (2009) recorded that Sarcoptes scabiei infestation was diagnosed in
278 sheep. The sheep presented crusted skin lesions initially appear on the lips or
nostrils, the lesion on nostrils also extend towards around the eyes, the supraorbital
fossae and in some cases over entire face. The infested male lambs by mating

35
behavior in fatling flocks caused transmitting the infection to fat tail area and
scrotum.
Barmon et al. (2010) recorded the prevalence of ectoparasites of sheep in
Bangladesh from July 2007 to November 2008. Out of the total 120 sheep
examined, 95(79.2%) were infested with one or more species of ectoparasites,
among them Psoroptes ovis was identified and recorded in rate of 7(5.8%).
Cysticercus ovis:
Richter and Elmarsdottir (1997) stated that Taenia ovis cysticerci were
occasionally found in sheep in Iceland during (1984, 1985, and 1987) but have not
been observed since 1992. Adult worms were never found in dogs.
FSIS (1998) identified animal infectious conditions that do not render foods unsafe
to humans or are unlikely to be transmitted to humans, including C. ovis. They
recommended to remove lesion if localized and passes unaffected carcass, while
generalized case is condemned or treated to render non-infective.
El-Metenawy (1999) studied an abattoir survey at Bureida abattoir, Saudi Arabia.
The prevalence of C. ovis was 8(0.64%) out of 3,045 sheep slaughtered.
FAO (2000) stated that in heavy infestations of ovine cysticercosis the carcass is
condemned. It is commonly considered that an animal is heavily infested if lesions
are discovered in two of the usual inspection sites including the masseter muscle,
tongue, esophagus, heart, diaphragm or exposed musculature and in two sites
during incision into the shoulder and the rounds. Carcasses with C. ovis
infestations may not be acceptable for export.
Cabrera et al. (2003) carried diagnostic surveys in National slaughtering plants in
Uruguay in 1998 on sheep (Ovis aries). 2035 sheep were examined, 1.7% of the
animals presented larvae of Taenia ovis in the cardiac muscle.
Coates (2004) described C. ovis in slaughtered lambs as numerous white, shiny
nodules in heart muscle, masseter muscle, and in random foci of skeletal muscle.
Microscopic examination of these structures revealed C. ovis, the intermediate
stage of Taenia ovis, which has the dog (rarely, cats) as its final host. In dogs, the
ingested tapeworm cysts in muscle tissue develop into the intestinal worms that
will later mature and shed eggs.

36
Love (2004) reported that sheep measles (C. ovis) are parasitic cyst that can occur
in the muscles, especially the heart and diaphragm, of sheep and goats, apparently
without ill-effect. These cysts are the larval form of particular tapeworm, Taenia
ovis, which occur in the small intestine of dogs. Sheep is intermediate host and
become infected when they eat pasture contaminated by feces from dogs carrying
the adult form of the tapeworm. Egg can survive on pasture for several months.
Dogs are the final or definitive hosts and they are infected by eating raw meat or
offal from sheep or goat with sheep measles.
Sheridan (2007) stated that C. ovis is the intermediate or larval cystic stage of the
parasite, Taenia ovis, which is a common tapeworm of dogs and wild canine
species (primary hosts) with sheep and goats being the intermediate hosts. C. ovis
cysts are usually found in the heart, diaphragm, esophagus, tongue, head muscles
and or in the carcass. The cysts may appear active (clear fluid-filled) or as
degenerated firm nodules with a scar/calcified tissue. C. ovis is not transmissible to
humans. On routine inspection, the presence of a C. ovis cyst is discovered in the
viscera, tongue or carcass, the carcass and head (where present) must be retained
for more detailed inspection. The viscera may be condemned or retained and then
passed or condemned with the carcass.
Abu-Elwafa and Al-Araby (2008) studied the existence of tissue parasites among
slaughtered animals in Mansoura abattoir in Dakahlia Province, Egypt. A total
number of 133 sheep were examined during the period extended from September
2005 till the end of August 2006. The overall tissue parasites prevalence was
22.56%. Examination of sheep carcasses revealed C. ovis (8.27%).
AL-Qureishy (2008) recorded the prevalence of tapeworm infections among sheep
slaughtered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from February 2007 to March 2008. The
examination of muscle samples from rump, shoulders and thigh of 1001 sheep
revealed Cysticercus ovis in 120 sheep (12%). The highest infection rate (17.5%)
was in autumn, and the lowest one (6.2%) was in summer.
Christodoulopoulos et al. (2008) investigated the epidemiological status of
cysticercosis in sheep and the production practices of sheep farmers that increase
the risk of exposure of sheep to infesting agent of this disease in central Greece
during 2002–2006. A total of 700 hoggets (sheep up to the age of 1 year) and 1500
adult sheep were examined randomly at an abattoir survey and the prevalence of
cysticercosis was found 29.41%. Hoggets had significantly lower prevalence
cysticercosis compared to adult sheep. The most common production practices
identified in a questionnaire survey of sheep farmers that may increase the risk of
exposure of sheep to cysticercosis were the improper disposal of dead animals, the

37
access of farm dogs to offal of slaughtered sheep, the carelessness of farmers to
treat farm dogs with anthelmintics, and the grazing of flocks in fields where stray
dogs have free access.
Ibrahim et al. (2008) recorded the prevalence of helminth population in Al-Baha
area, Saudi Arabia. A total of 1144 sheep were examined. The prevalence of
Cysticercus ovis was (2.97%). Cysticerci were distributed in the shoulders, thigh
muscles and rump.
Jibat et al. (2008) found that out of 1152 sheep examined at HELMEX abattoir,
Ethiopia, 214 (7.9%) hearts and 188 (7%) carcasses were condemned. One of the
major causes of condemnation was Cysticercus ovis in rate of 5.6%.
OIE (2008) said that Taenia ovis adults in the intestine of dogs and wild canines
reach 1–2 meters in length. Commonly detection of up to 2–5 cysts results in
trimming and the carcass is passed. Some authorities may require that the meat be
boned, trimmed and frozen or cooked. In heavy infections the carcass is
condemned.
Sissay et al. (2008) studied the prevalence and seasonal incidence of cestode
parasite infections of sheep in Eastern Ethiopia for 2 years (May 2003-April 2005).
During this period, viscera including liver, lungs, heart, kidneys and the gastro-
intestinal tract were collected from 655 sheep slaughtered at four abattoirs located
in the towns of Haramaya. At the abattoirs the abdominal, thoracic and pelvic
cavities as well as the muscle surfaces of all animals were visually examined for
the presence of larval (cystic) stages of cestode parasites. The viscera were
transported within 24 h to the parasitology laboratory of Haramaya University and
were examined for larval and adult cestodes. One of the most prevalent
metacestodes (larval cestodes) was Cysticercus ovis (Taenia ovis). In sheep, the
overall prevalence was 26% for C. ovis. The results of the survey also implies that
infections of small ruminants with this metacestodes are responsible for
condemnation of substantial quantities of affected organs and muscles and
therefore of direct economic importance.
Woube (2008) determined C. ovis in Ethiopian sheep hearts at a rate of 6(5.3%),
including adult 3(5.3%) and young 3(2.6%).
Abu-Elwafa et al. (2009) examined a total number of 151 sheep by the routine
meat inspection. They found that the total prevalence of metacestodes infecting
sheep carcasses was 31.79%. The prevalence of Cysticercus ovis was 11.26%.
Concerning the seasonal dynamics of the revealed parasites, C. ovis reached its

38
maximum during summer (17.14%). Heart was the most predilection site for C.
ovis infection (82.35%). With respect to age groups, C. ovis is found to infect all
investigated animal groups, where the majority of infection is observed in the age
group of 1-2 years old (14.56%), followed by animals over 2 years old (5.56%),
while younger animals (6-12 months) are found harboring the lowest incidence
(3.33%). Concerning sex, males are found more liable to infection with C. ovis
than females (11.54 and 9.52%, respectively).
Forsythe (2009) said that Taenia ovis eggs can survive from three to six months in
the environment and are ingested by sheep while grazing on pasture or while
consuming contaminated stored feeds. Lesions in the muscle (Cysticercus ovis) can
show up as early as 13 days.
FSIS (2009) stated that Cysticercus ovis is not transmissible to man; the definitive
hosts are wild carnivores. Grossly carcasses affected with ovine cysticercosis will
contain live, dead, or degenerated cysts in the heart, tongue, esophagus, or
muscles. The live cyst will appear as a vesicle or small bladder (balloon) filled
with fluid. In most cases, the cyst will be dead and degenerated to some extent and
will appear as small foci (small localized bodily infection) of fibrotic (hard, thick)
tissue that may or may not be calcified and gritty in texture. In addition to these
lesions, the associated muscle tissue may be watery or discolored.
Jansen et al. (2009) reported that once a lamb is infested there is no treatment that
will remove the cysts. The most important control measure is deworming the dog
(working, guard or pet) once a month if cysts have been found in sheep carcasses.
Additional preventative measures include not feeding raw sheep meat back to
dogs. Sheep meat can be frozen at -10°C for 7 days or cooked thoroughly at 72°C
to destroy tapeworms in cysts. Producers should also ensure that all dead stock is
disposed of properly on-farm to prevent scavenging.
Jackman and Hathaway (2010) said that in New Zealand the prevalence of C. ovis
detected by meat inspection staff in adult sheep was 2% with only 0.82% of these
detained carcasses having sufficient numbers of cysts throughout the musculature
to warrant condemnation.
Cysticercus tenuicollis:
Abu-Elwafa and Al-Araby (2008) detected C. tenuicollis in 14.29% out of 133
sheep slaughtered in Mansoura abattoir in Dakahlia Province, Egypt.
Jibat et al. (2008) recorded C. tenuicollis in (5.2%) of sheep in Ethiopia.

39
Payan-Carreira et al. (2008) stated that C. tenuicollis is the larval stage of the
canine tape worm Taenia hydatigena, the presence of which has been reported in
wild and domestic ruminants all over the world. C. tenuicollis is generally seen
attached to the omenta, the mesenteries or also found in the liver. In the ewe, tissue
lesions have been associated with degenerative cysts or with oncosphere
migrations. Unusual locations of the cysticerci of T. hydatigena have been
described. The most frequent unusual locations are in the lungs, the kidneys and
the brain. Less common locations have been reported to occur in the ovaries,
uterine tubes, uterus, cervix and vagina.
Senlik (2008) said that the intensity of C. tenuicollis infestations in sheep may be
influenced by host breed and sex. Moreover, infested sheep was acquired immunity
to reinfection by Taenia hydatigena. The incidence of C. tenuicollis infections in
sheep in Bursa, Turkey was (24.1%). The predominant predilection site of
cysticerci in infected sheep was omentum (76.9%).
Sissay et al. (2008) studied the prevalence and seasonal incidence of cestode
parasite infections of sheep in Eastern Ethiopia for 2 years (2003- 2005). During
this period, viscera including liver, lungs, heart, kidneys and the gastro-intestinal
tract were collected from 655 sheep slaughtered at four abattoirs. One of the most
prevalent metacestodes (larval cestodes) was C. tenuicollis (T. hydatigena). In
sheep, the overall prevalence was 79% for C. tenuicollis.
Woube (2008) observed C. tenuicollis in liver at rate of 10(8.8%) out of 114sheep
slaughtered at HELIMEX abattoir in Ethiopia, including adult 7(70%) and young
3(30%).
Abu-Elwafa et al. (2009) found C. tenuicollis in (19.21%) out of 151 sheep by the
routine meat inspection in Mansoura abattoir, Egypt. Concerning the seasonal
dynamics of the revealed parasites, autumn season was the highest season for
infection with C. tenuicollis (28.95%); omentum was the most predilection site
(65.52%). Concerning sex, female animals were more liable, than male ones
(42.86% and 15.38%, respectively).
Kara et al. (2009) carried out an abattoir survey on 1,763 sheep slaughtered and
examined for the certain helminths in Malatya province, Turkey. In postmortem
examinations, the prevalence rate of C. tenuicollis was (12.13%). The larvae are
responsible for morbidity and mortality in sheep.

Significance of abattoir finding among slaughtered sheep

Significance of abattoir finding among slaughtered sheep

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Significance of abattoir finding among slaughtered sheep