Animal Science Terminologies

COMMON TERMINOLOGIESCOMMON TERMINOLOGIES
USED IN ANIMAL SCIENCEUSED IN ANIMAL SCIENCE

ABATTOIR- slaughter house.ABATTOIR- slaughter house.

ABORTION- expulsion of fetus(es);ABORTION- expulsion of fetus(es);
expulsion of fully developed pigletsexpulsion of fully developed piglets
before the completion of pregnancybefore the completion of pregnancy
and before they are able to survive.and before they are able to survive.

ABRASION- tear in the skinABRASION- tear in the skin
due to friction or rubbing.due to friction or rubbing.

ABSCESS- localized collection ofABSCESS- localized collection of
pus.pus.

ACCESSIBILITY- the state orACCESSIBILITY- the state or
quality to be reached.quality to be reached.

ACCLIMATIZATION- adjustment ofACCLIMATIZATION- adjustment of
the breeding pig to the conditionsthe breeding pig to the conditions
prevailing on the farm to which itprevailing on the farm to which it
has been introduced to enable it tohas been introduced to enable it to
perform at optimum standards.perform at optimum standards.

ACCUMULATIVE - collective.ACCUMULATIVE - collective.

ACIDOSIS- a condition in whichACIDOSIS- a condition in which
the acidity of body fluids andthe acidity of body fluids and
tissues is abnormally high.tissues is abnormally high.

ACUTE- referring to a diseaseACUTE- referring to a disease
which has a rapid onset, shortwhich has a rapid onset, short
course and pronounced signs.course and pronounced signs.

AGALACTIA - absence of milk;AGALACTIA - absence of milk;
failure to secrete milk followingfailure to secrete milk following
birth.birth.

ALL-IN/ALL-OUT- managementALL-IN/ALL-OUT- management
method wherein a group of fatteningmethod wherein a group of fattening
pigs enters the unit at the samepigs enters the unit at the same
time and leaves together at atime and leaves together at a
certain period once they reach thecertain period once they reach the
market or slaughter weight.market or slaughter weight.

ALVEOLAR MACROPHAGE -ALVEOLAR MACROPHAGE -
macrophage found in alveoli.macrophage found in alveoli.

ALVEOLI- the terminal part of theALVEOLI- the terminal part of the
respiratory system (airway) whererespiratory system (airway) where
oxygen carbon dioxide exchangesoxygen carbon dioxide exchanges
take place.take place.

ANAPHYLACTIC SHOCK- anANAPHYLACTIC SHOCK- an
allergic reaction to anallergic reaction to an
administered drug or vaccine,administered drug or vaccine,
which may or may not kill thewhich may or may not kill the
animals.animals.

ANEMIA- reduction in the quantityANEMIA- reduction in the quantity
of hemoglobin (oxygen-carrier inof hemoglobin (oxygen-carrier in
the blood); the main symptomsthe blood); the main symptoms
are paleness, hurried breathingare paleness, hurried breathing
and low resistance to infection.and low resistance to infection.

Aneuploid - Has more or less than
exact number of multiple monoploid
chromosomes.

Animal Agriculture - Production and use of
animals for human consumption.

Animal Welfare Act (AWA) - Regulates the
care and treatment of animals in research
facilities, dealers, exhibits, and
transportation.

ANTIBIOTIC- a chemicalANTIBIOTIC- a chemical
substance derived from a mold orsubstance derived from a mold or
bacteria that inhibits the growth ofbacteria that inhibits the growth of
other microorganisms.other microorganisms.

ANTIBODY- a protein substanceANTIBODY- a protein substance
developed or synthesized by lymphoiddeveloped or synthesized by lymphoid
tissues of the body in response to antissues of the body in response to an
antigenic stimulus; each antigen elicitsantigenic stimulus; each antigen elicits
production of a specific antibody. Inproduction of a specific antibody. In
disease defense, the animal must havedisease defense, the animal must have
an encounter with the pathogen/antigenan encounter with the pathogen/antigen
before a specific antibody is developedbefore a specific antibody is developed
in its blood.in its blood.

ANTIGEN- a high molecular-ANTIGEN- a high molecular-
weight substance (usually aweight substance (usually a
protein) which, when foreign toprotein) which, when foreign to
the bloodstream of an animal,the bloodstream of an animal,
stimulates formation of a specificstimulates formation of a specific
antibody and reacts specificallyantibody and reacts specifically inin
vivovivo oror in vitroin vitro with itswith its
homologous antibody.homologous antibody.

ANTISEPTIC- a chemicalANTISEPTIC- a chemical
substance that prevents thesubstance that prevents the
growth and development ofgrowth and development of
microorganisms.microorganisms.

ARTHRITIS- inflammation of theARTHRITIS- inflammation of the
joints.joints.

Artificial Selection - Human selection of
animals for reproducing, based on selected
traits that are desirable.

ASPHYXIATION- suffocation.ASPHYXIATION- suffocation.

ASSAY- determination of (1) theASSAY- determination of (1) the
purity of potency of a substance,purity of potency of a substance,
or (2) the amount of any particularor (2) the amount of any particular
constituent of a mixture.constituent of a mixture.

ATAXIA- shaky movements andATAXIA- shaky movements and
unsteady gaits.unsteady gaits.

ATONIC- uterus is not contractingATONIC- uterus is not contracting

ATRESIA ANI- no anal opening.ATRESIA ANI- no anal opening.

ATROPHY- shrinkage of a normalATROPHY- shrinkage of a normal
organ.organ.

AUTOINTOXICATION – self-AUTOINTOXICATION – self-
poisoning.poisoning.

Autosomes - Not sex chromosomes.

AVERAGE DAILY GAIN (ADG)-AVERAGE DAILY GAIN (ADG)-
the average increase in weight ofthe average increase in weight of
an animal per day.an animal per day.

BACTEREMIA- the presence of aBACTEREMIA- the presence of a
bacteria or microorganisms in thebacteria or microorganisms in the
blood.blood.

BARROW- a castrated male pigBARROW- a castrated male pig
for fattening.for fattening.

Biotechnology - Use of living organisms to
make or modify products. Increases
reproduction, clone sheep, increase milk
production, etc.

BOAR- sexually maturedBOAR- sexually matured
uncastrated male pig, at least 8uncastrated male pig, at least 8
months old.months old.

BODY CONSTITUTION- ability ofBODY CONSTITUTION- ability of
the animal’s body to resistthe animal’s body to resist
diseases.diseases.

BOOSTER SHOT OR DOSE- aBOOSTER SHOT OR DOSE- a
dose given at some time after andose given at some time after an
initial dose to enhance the effect,initial dose to enhance the effect,
usually of antigens for theusually of antigens for the
production of antibodies.production of antibodies.

Breed - Animals in same species but differ
from others within same species (Dog vs
Boxer vs Great Dane)

Breed Character - Physical characteristics
that differentiate between breeds (color,
size, coat type, etc.)

BREEDER FEED- feed for sows,BREEDER FEED- feed for sows,
gilts and boars, usually containsgilts and boars, usually contains
about 3,000kcal DE and 140gabout 3,000kcal DE and 140g
protein/kg feed.protein/kg feed.

BREEDER MASH- feeds on aBREEDER MASH- feeds on a
mash form given to sows, boarsmash form given to sows, boars
and gilts with 14% Crude Protein.and gilts with 14% Crude Protein.

BREEDERS- animals used forBREEDERS- animals used for
reproduction, such as sows, giltsreproduction, such as sows, gilts
and boars.and boars.

BRUISES- small broken bloodBRUISES- small broken blood
vessels that discolor the skin,vessels that discolor the skin,
which is not broken.which is not broken.

BRUCELLOSIS- a chronicBRUCELLOSIS- a chronic
disease with symptoms like lossdisease with symptoms like loss
of appetite, weakness,of appetite, weakness,
progressing to chronic fever andprogressing to chronic fever and
swelling of lymph nodes.swelling of lymph nodes.

BRISKET- meat from a pig’sBRISKET- meat from a pig’s
chest.chest.

BULL- a mature male cattle.BULL- a mature male cattle.

BURROW- to make a hole.BURROW- to make a hole.

Carrier -Animal carries a non-dominant gene
that is not expressed.

Centromere - Chromosome part where
spindles are attached.

Chromosome – rod-like bodies or molecule
containing genes of a living thing. Paired in
most cells.

Co-dominance - Unlike alleles located at one
loci.Neither allele is dominant.

CHRONIC- referring to a diseaseCHRONIC- referring to a disease
condition that is continuous andcondition that is continuous and
long lasting.long lasting.

CLINICAL- referring to directCLINICAL- referring to direct
observation.observation.

COLOSTRUM- the first milkCOLOSTRUM- the first milk
secretion from the breast,secretion from the breast,
occurring shortly after oroccurring shortly after or
sometimes before birth. Itsometimes before birth. It
contains serum, white blood cellscontains serum, white blood cells
and antibodies.and antibodies.

CONCEPTION - the act of gettingCONCEPTION - the act of getting
pregnant.pregnant.

CONCEPTION RATE-CONCEPTION RATE-
percentage of sows that becomespercentage of sows that becomes
pregnant after service/pregnant after service/
insemination.insemination.

CONGENITAL- a condition orCONGENITAL- a condition or
disease that has affected thedisease that has affected the
animal since birth.animal since birth.

CONJUNCTIVITIS - inflammationCONJUNCTIVITIS - inflammation
of the conjunctiva manifested byof the conjunctiva manifested by
severe eye discharge.severe eye discharge.

CONTAGIOUS- can be easilyCONTAGIOUS- can be easily
transferred.transferred.

CORROSIVE - gradually makingCORROSIVE - gradually making
something weaker, and possiblysomething weaker, and possibly
destroying it.destroying it.

Cow-Calf Operation - Breeding cattle for
market. Most are cross-bred.

CRESOL- type of disinfectantCRESOL- type of disinfectant
used to increase solubility andused to increase solubility and
applied in 2- 4% solution.applied in 2- 4% solution.

CRYPTORCHIDISM- mostCRYPTORCHIDISM- most
frequently encountered genitalfrequently encountered genital
defect of male piglets whereby thedefect of male piglets whereby the
testes fail to descend from thetestes fail to descend from the
abdominal cavity into the scrotum.abdominal cavity into the scrotum.

CRUSHING- mainly due toCRUSHING- mainly due to
crumpling.crumpling.

CRUSTS- a thin, hard, dry layerCRUSTS- a thin, hard, dry layer
on the surface.on the surface.

CULLING- the removal ofCULLING- the removal of
undesirable or unproductiveundesirable or unproductive
animals within the herd.animals within the herd.

CULLS- allCULLS- all
unwanted/unproductive animalsunwanted/unproductive animals
remove from the herd.remove from the herd.

CUSHION- something that stopsCUSHION- something that stops
one thing from hitting anotherone thing from hitting another
thing.thing.

CYANOSIS- bluish discolorationCYANOSIS- bluish discoloration
of the extremities due toof the extremities due to
circulatory disturbances.circulatory disturbances.

CYSTIC OVARY- an ovary whichCYSTIC OVARY- an ovary which
contains an abnormal saccontains an abnormal sac
containing gas, fluid or a semi-containing gas, fluid or a semi-
solid material, with a membranoussolid material, with a membranous
lining.lining.

DEHYDRATION- loss of bodyDEHYDRATION- loss of body
fluids.fluids.

DELIVERED/MARKET PIG- a pigDELIVERED/MARKET PIG- a pig
that has been sold for slaughter.that has been sold for slaughter.

Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) - Complex
molecule with code of physical characteristics.

Dilution Gene - Affects the expression of
another color gene. Dilutes one color to
appear as another.

Diploid - Two sets of chromosomes.

DIARRHEA- fecal looseness.DIARRHEA- fecal looseness.

DIET/RATION- a selection orDIET/RATION- a selection or
combination of different feedstuffscombination of different feedstuffs
provided on a continuousprovided on a continuous
schedule.schedule.

DIGESTIBLE ENERGY (DE)-DIGESTIBLE ENERGY (DE)-
gross energy minus fecal energy.gross energy minus fecal energy.

DILUENT- the water used toDILUENT- the water used to
dissolve a lyophilized vaccine.dissolve a lyophilized vaccine.

DISH- SHAPED- slightly bent orDISH- SHAPED- slightly bent or
curving.curving.

DRAFT- moisture.DRAFT- moisture.

DRESS WEIGHT - carcassDRESS WEIGHT - carcass
weight; weight after slaughteringweight; weight after slaughtering
and removal of entrails.and removal of entrails.

DOCILENESS- easily controlled,DOCILENESS- easily controlled,
quiet.quiet.

DRY PERIOD- the time intervalDRY PERIOD- the time interval
from weaning to the nextfrom weaning to the next
conception.conception.

DRY SOWS- unbred sows whichDRY SOWS- unbred sows which
have just been weaned; non-have just been weaned; non-
pregnant sows.pregnant sows.

DISINFECTANT- a chemicalDISINFECTANT- a chemical
capable of destroying disease-capable of destroying disease-
causing microorganisms orcausing microorganisms or
parasites.parasites.

Diversified Farms - Multi-purpose farm:
dairy, vegetables, other livestock.

Domestic Animal - Thrives in environment of
close human contact. Bred over generations
to benefit humans.

Drylot - Do not contain grass for grazing.
Grains are used to feed dairy cattle while
they live in large pens.

DRYNESS - free from moisture.DRYNESS - free from moisture.

DUNGING AREA- whereDUNGING AREA- where
fasteners are supposed tofasteners are supposed to
defecate.defecate.

DYSPNOEA - difficulty inDYSPNOEA - difficulty in
breathing.breathing.

DYSTOCIA - difficulty inDYSTOCIA - difficulty in
farrowing.farrowing.

EDEMA- swelling of a part or allEDEMA- swelling of a part or all
of the body due to theof the body due to the
accumulation of excess water.accumulation of excess water.

EDEMATOUS - a conditionEDEMATOUS - a condition
wherein the area (tissue spaces)wherein the area (tissue spaces)
is filled with fluid.is filled with fluid.

ELECTROLYTES- a liquidELECTROLYTES- a liquid
solution or fresh salt.solution or fresh salt.

EMACIATION- excessive loss ofEMACIATION- excessive loss of
flesh.flesh.

ENERGY- vigor or power inENERGY- vigor or power in
action.action.

ENTERIC- relating to or affectingENTERIC- relating to or affecting
the intestine.the intestine.

ENZOOTIC- endemic; denoting aENZOOTIC- endemic; denoting a
disease of animals which isdisease of animals which is
indigenous to a certain locality.indigenous to a certain locality.

EPINEPHRINE - a hormoneEPINEPHRINE - a hormone
responsible for the “fight or flight”responsible for the “fight or flight”
reaction.reaction.

Epistasis - One gene or allele affecting the
expression of another gene somewhere else
on the chromosome.

Ethology - Study of animal behavior and well-
being as related to the environment.

ESTRUS CYCLE- the periodESTRUS CYCLE- the period
intervening between twointervening between two
successive heat periods in thesuccessive heat periods in the
absence of pregnancy.absence of pregnancy.

ESTRUS PERIOD- the timeESTRUS PERIOD- the time
during which the sow will acceptduring which the sow will accept
the boar; also known as the heatthe boar; also known as the heat
period.period.

ESTRUS- the period of sexualESTRUS- the period of sexual
receptivity in females; also heat.receptivity in females; also heat.

EUTHANASIA - “MERCYEUTHANASIA - “MERCY
KILLING”.KILLING”.

EXUDATE- any fluid that hasEXUDATE- any fluid that has
moved out of a tissue or itsmoved out of a tissue or its
capillaries, specifically because ofcapillaries, specifically because of
injury or inflammation.injury or inflammation.

FARROWING- the act of givingFARROWING- the act of giving
birth in pigs.birth in pigs.

Farrow-to-Finish - Breeds and raises pigs
though market weight at same location

Feeder Pig Operation - From weaning to
finishing to market. Separate from
mother.

FARROWING CRATE- anFARROWING CRATE- an
equipment where a sow is placedequipment where a sow is placed
before farrowing till weaning tobefore farrowing till weaning to
avoid crushing of piglets.avoid crushing of piglets.

FARROWING INTERVAL- periodFARROWING INTERVAL- period
from one farrowing to the next.from one farrowing to the next.

FATTENER- a pig raised forFATTENER- a pig raised for
pork/meat purpose; usually weightpork/meat purpose; usually weight
starts from 15-20kg.starts from 15-20kg.

FATTENING DAYS- the numberFATTENING DAYS- the number
of days a pig stays on a farm forof days a pig stays on a farm for
fattening until marketing; thefattening until marketing; the
duration of fattening.duration of fattening.

FECES- dung, stool, manure,FECES- dung, stool, manure,
waste.waste.

FEED CONVERSION RATIOFEED CONVERSION RATIO
(FCR)- the amount of feed(FCR)- the amount of feed
needed to convert into one kg ofneeded to convert into one kg of
gain in weight.gain in weight.

FEED TROUGH- a constructed orFEED TROUGH- a constructed or
fabricated device where feeds arefabricated device where feeds are
placed for pig consumption.placed for pig consumption.

FEEDERS- feed containers.FEEDERS- feed containers.

FEEDS CONSUMED - theFEEDS CONSUMED - the
amount of feed consumed by theamount of feed consumed by the
pig.pig.

FEEDS GIVEN- theFEEDS GIVEN- the
amount/quantity of feed given toamount/quantity of feed given to
the pig.the pig.

FEEDSTUFF- any materialFEEDSTUFF- any material
suitable for animal feed.suitable for animal feed.

FERTILIZATION- the processFERTILIZATION- the process
wherein the sperm cell penetrateswherein the sperm cell penetrates
the ovum. It is the union of thethe ovum. It is the union of the
male and female gametes to formmale and female gametes to form
a zygote.a zygote.

FETUS- a young organism in theFETUS- a young organism in the
uterus from the time the organsuterus from the time the organs
and systems develop until birth.and systems develop until birth.

FINISHER FEED- given toFINISHER FEED- given to
fattener of 60kg until marketfattener of 60kg until market
weight with 14% Crude Protein.weight with 14% Crude Protein.

FINISHERS- pigs which are 60kgFINISHERS- pigs which are 60kg
and above.and above.

FLUSHING- giving of excessFLUSHING- giving of excess
amount of feeds to the gilts/sowsamount of feeds to the gilts/sows
prior to breeding; usually lastsprior to breeding; usually lasts
from 3 to 10 days, or an averagefrom 3 to 10 days, or an average
of one week (7 days).of one week (7 days).

FORMALDEHYDE- type ofFORMALDEHYDE- type of
disinfectant which is an aqueousdisinfectant which is an aqueous
solution containing about 40%solution containing about 40%
formaldehyde gas or formalin.formaldehyde gas or formalin.

GANGRENOUS- decayed fleshGANGRENOUS- decayed flesh
because blood has stoppedbecause blood has stopped
flowing as a result of illness orflowing as a result of illness or
injury.injury.

GASTROINTESTINAL- pertainingGASTROINTESTINAL- pertaining
to the stomach and intestines.to the stomach and intestines.

GENOTYPE- an animal’s trueGENOTYPE- an animal’s true
(genetic) make up.(genetic) make up.

GILT - a female pig that has notGILT - a female pig that has not
produced pigs and which has notproduced pigs and which has not
reached an evident stage ofreached an evident stage of
pregnancy.pregnancy.

GROWER MASH- feeds given toGROWER MASH- feeds given to
fatteners at 30 -35kg up to 60kgfatteners at 30 -35kg up to 60kg
with 16% Crude Protein.with 16% Crude Protein.

GROWERS- pigs from 30 toGROWERS- pigs from 30 to
60kg.60kg.

GUTTER – open pipe or channel.GUTTER – open pipe or channel.

HERITABILITY- characteristics ofHERITABILITY- characteristics of
parent stocks which can beparent stocks which can be
passed on to their offspring.passed on to their offspring.

HERNIA- a protrusion of an organHERNIA- a protrusion of an organ
or tissue out of a body cavity inor tissue out of a body cavity in
which it normally lies.which it normally lies.

HYBRID- the animals whichHYBRID- the animals which
posses hybrid vigor or heterosisposses hybrid vigor or heterosis
resulting from the crossing ofresulting from the crossing of
different breeds. Normally, thesedifferent breeds. Normally, these
animals perform better than theiranimals perform better than their
parents.parents.

HYBRID VIGOR ORHYBRID VIGOR OR
HETEROSIS- the superiorityHETEROSIS- the superiority
exhibited by the crossbredexhibited by the crossbred
animals over the average of theanimals over the average of the
parental breeds.parental breeds.

HYDRAULIC- moved or operatedHYDRAULIC- moved or operated
by water pressure.by water pressure.

HYGIENE- the practice orHYGIENE- the practice or
measures designed to attain andmeasures designed to attain and
preserve health.preserve health.

HYPEREMIA- redness of a part ofHYPEREMIA- redness of a part of
an organ, can be a part of thean organ, can be a part of the
skin, liver, etc.skin, liver, etc.

HYPOCALCEMIA- the presenceHYPOCALCEMIA- the presence
in the blood of an abnormally lowin the blood of an abnormally low
concentration of calcium.concentration of calcium.

HYPOGALACTIA- presence ofHYPOGALACTIA- presence of
little amount of milk.little amount of milk.

HYPOGLYCEMIA- a deficiency ofHYPOGLYCEMIA- a deficiency of
glucose in the bloodstream,glucose in the bloodstream,
causing muscular weakness andcausing muscular weakness and
incoordination, mental confusionincoordination, mental confusion
and sweating.and sweating.

HYSTERECTOMY - surgicalHYSTERECTOMY - surgical
removal of the womb.removal of the womb.

IMMUNITY- specific resistance ofIMMUNITY- specific resistance of
an animal against a specifican animal against a specific
disease-causing organism.disease-causing organism.

INFANTILE- denoting conditionsINFANTILE- denoting conditions
occurring in adult animals that areoccurring in adult animals that are
recognizable in young ones;recognizable in young ones;
immature/undeveloped.immature/undeveloped.

INFECTION- a disease caused byINFECTION- a disease caused by
an organism.an organism.

INFECTIOUS- a disease causedINFECTIOUS- a disease caused
by an organism.by an organism.

INFLAMMATION - the reaction ofINFLAMMATION - the reaction of
tissue to injury, characterized bytissue to injury, characterized by
redness, swelling, pain and heat.redness, swelling, pain and heat.
SwellingSwelling

INSEMINATION- the deposition ofINSEMINATION- the deposition of
seminal fluid with in the vagina.seminal fluid with in the vagina.

INVOLUTION- shrinking of theINVOLUTION- shrinking of the
uterus to normal size afteruterus to normal size after
farrowing.farrowing.

IODINE- type of disinfectantIODINE- type of disinfectant
typically used as an antiseptic.typically used as an antiseptic.

ISOLATE- to separate, to removeISOLATE- to separate, to remove
sick animals from its pen.sick animals from its pen.

LACTATION PERIOD- the periodLACTATION PERIOD- the period
from farrowing until weaning;from farrowing until weaning;
period when the sow is nursingperiod when the sow is nursing
the piglets.the piglets.

LACTATION- production of milk.LACTATION- production of milk.
LAMENESS- limping.LAMENESS- limping.

LARDINESS- presence of whiteLARDINESS- presence of white
fat in pigs for cooking.fat in pigs for cooking.

LATERAL RECUMBENCY- theLATERAL RECUMBENCY- the
animal lies on its side.animal lies on its side.

LEPTOSPIROSIS- an infectiousLEPTOSPIROSIS- an infectious
disease which begins with a feverdisease which begins with a fever
and may affect the liver (causingand may affect the liver (causing
jaundice) or meninges (resultingjaundice) or meninges (resulting
in meningitis).in meningitis).

LESIONS- disruptive changes in aLESIONS- disruptive changes in a
cell, tissue or organ.cell, tissue or organ.

LIBIDO- sex drive (desire toLIBIDO- sex drive (desire to
mount and mate).mount and mate).

LITTER INDEX- the number ofLITTER INDEX- the number of
farrowing of one sow per year;farrowing of one sow per year;
also called farrowing index or litteralso called farrowing index or litter
/sow/year./sow/year.

LITTER NUMBER- number ofLITTER NUMBER- number of
farrowing/ parity.farrowing/ parity.

LITTER SIZE- the number of allLITTER SIZE- the number of all
piglets born in one farrowing.piglets born in one farrowing.

LIVE WEIGHT- the weight of allLIVE WEIGHT- the weight of all
live pigs.live pigs.

LOCOMOTOR - the act of movingLOCOMOTOR - the act of moving
from one place to another.from one place to another.

LOST DAYS- the number of daysLOST DAYS- the number of days
a sow is neither pregnant nora sow is neither pregnant nor
lactating nor dry; ideal lost days inlactating nor dry; ideal lost days in
about seven (7 ) days.about seven (7 ) days.

LYING AREA- where pigsLYING AREA- where pigs
sleep/rest.sleep/rest.

MANGE- parasite.MANGE- parasite.

MARKET WEIGHT- the finalMARKET WEIGHT- the final
weight of a pig forweight of a pig for
slaughtering/marketing; also endslaughtering/marketing; also end
weight.weight.

MASTITIS - inflammation ofMASTITIS - inflammation of
breast or mammary gland.breast or mammary gland.

MAXILLARY- relating to theMAXILLARY- relating to the
bones forming the upper jaw.bones forming the upper jaw.

METRITIS - inflammation of theMETRITIS - inflammation of the
uterus.uterus.

MORBIDITY - number of animalsMORBIDITY - number of animals
affected by a certain disease.affected by a certain disease.

MORPHOLOGY- structure of anMORPHOLOGY- structure of an
object.object.

MORTALITY- the number of deadMORTALITY- the number of dead
pig(s).pig(s).
MOTILITY- movement.MOTILITY- movement.

MUCOUS- a viscous fluidMUCOUS- a viscous fluid
secreted by the mucoussecreted by the mucous
membranes in many parts of themembranes in many parts of the
body, including the mouth,body, including the mouth,
bronchial passages and gut;bronchial passages and gut;
mucous acts as protectivemucous acts as protective
barriers over surfaces of thebarriers over surfaces of the
membranes.membranes.

NASAL CAVITY- referring to theNASAL CAVITY- referring to the
nose, snout on pigs.nose, snout on pigs.

NECROPSY - an examination ofNECROPSY - an examination of
the internal organs of a deadthe internal organs of a dead
animal to determine the apparentanimal to determine the apparent
cause of death.cause of death.

NECROSIS- death of tissue.NECROSIS- death of tissue.

NUTRIENTS- the chemicalNUTRIENTS- the chemical
substance found in feed materialssubstance found in feed materials
that can be used, and are necessarythat can be used, and are necessary
for the maintenance, production, andfor the maintenance, production, and
health of animals; the chief classes ofhealth of animals; the chief classes of
nutrients are carbohydrates, fats,nutrients are carbohydrates, fats,
proteins, vitamins, minerals andproteins, vitamins, minerals and
water.water.

NYMPHS- late larval stage.NYMPHS- late larval stage.

OBESITY- over fatness;OBESITY- over fatness;
excessive body condition.excessive body condition.

OCCLUSION- closing of a hollowOCCLUSION- closing of a hollow
organ or part.organ or part.

OCCUPANCY- the number ofOCCUPANCY- the number of
days an animal stay in a pen.days an animal stay in a pen.

OLFACTORY- connected with theOLFACTORY- connected with the
sense of smell.sense of smell.

OPISTHOTONOS- a titanicOPISTHOTONOS- a titanic
spasm in which the spine andspasm in which the spine and
extremities are bent withextremities are bent with
convexity forward, the bodyconvexity forward, the body
resting on the head and the heels,resting on the head and the heels,
sometimes with bulging of thesometimes with bulging of the
eyes.eyes.

OVER-FEEDING- giving of feedsOVER-FEEDING- giving of feeds
or ration more than theor ration more than the
requirement, may be quantitativerequirement, may be quantitative
or qualitative.or qualitative.

OVULATION- the process ofOVULATION- the process of
releasing the ova from each ripereleasing the ova from each ripe
follicle inside the ovary.follicle inside the ovary.

PARALYSIS- loss of power ofPARALYSIS- loss of power of
voluntary movement in a musclevoluntary movement in a muscle
through injury or disease of itsthrough injury or disease of its
nerve supply.nerve supply.

PARITIES- farrowing.PARITIES- farrowing.

PASTERN- the narrow upper part,PASTERN- the narrow upper part,
just above the hoof of the pig.just above the hoof of the pig.

PATHOGENIC- disease-causing.PATHOGENIC- disease-causing.

PATHOGENS- disease-causingPATHOGENS- disease-causing
organisms.organisms.

PENILE INJURIES- injuriesPENILE INJURIES- injuries
affecting the penis (penile-affecting the penis (penile-
adjective form of penis).adjective form of penis).

PERMEABILITY- allowing water,PERMEABILITY- allowing water,
gas, etc. to pass through it.gas, etc. to pass through it.
pH- symbol for the logarithm ofpH- symbol for the logarithm of
the reciprocal of the (H) ionthe reciprocal of the (H) ion
concentration; a solution with pHconcentration; a solution with pH
7.00 is neutral, one with a pH of7.00 is neutral, one with a pH of
more than 7.00 is alkaline, onemore than 7.00 is alkaline, one
with pH lower that 7.00 is acidic.with pH lower that 7.00 is acidic.

PHENOTYPE- the observablePHENOTYPE- the observable
characteristics of an animal thatcharacteristics of an animal that
can be seen and/or measured.can be seen and/or measured.

PIGLETS BORN ALIVE PERPIGLETS BORN ALIVE PER
LITTER- the number of pigletsLITTER- the number of piglets
born alive in one farrowing.born alive in one farrowing.

PLACENTA- the organ ofPLACENTA- the organ of
metabolic interchange betweenmetabolic interchange between
the fetuses and the sow.the fetuses and the sow.

PLEURITIS- inflammation of thePLEURITIS- inflammation of the
pleura or membranous coveringpleura or membranous covering
of the lungs.of the lungs.

PNEUMONIA- inflammation of thePNEUMONIA- inflammation of the
lungs; usually manifested bylungs; usually manifested by
coughing.coughing.

PREGNANCY- the period fromPREGNANCY- the period from
fertilization to farrowing time; alsofertilization to farrowing time; also
known as gestation.known as gestation.

PRE-STERTER FEED- Given toPRE-STERTER FEED- Given to
piglets at 14 to 21 days old withpiglets at 14 to 21 days old with
CP 20%CP 20%

PROCEEDS- money obtainedPROCEEDS- money obtained
from sales.from sales.

PRODUCTION CYCLE - thePRODUCTION CYCLE - the
period from pregnancy to another.period from pregnancy to another.

PROLAPSE - abnormal protrusionPROLAPSE - abnormal protrusion
of a part of organ.of a part of organ.

PROGENY (IES) - offspring(s).PROGENY (IES) - offspring(s).

PRURITUS- ItchingPRURITUS- Itching

PSEUDOPREGNANCY- falsePSEUDOPREGNANCY- false
pregnancy.pregnancy.

PUBERTY- the age at which thePUBERTY- the age at which the
reproductive organs becomereproductive organs become
functionally operative; sexualfunctionally operative; sexual
maturity.maturity.

QUARANTINE- placing all animalsQUARANTINE- placing all animals
that have been bought in isolation forthat have been bought in isolation for
a certain period of time; compulsorya certain period of time; compulsory
segregation of exposed susceptiblesegregation of exposed susceptible
animals for a period of time equal toanimals for a period of time equal to
the longest usual incubation period ofthe longest usual incubation period of
the disease to which they have beenthe disease to which they have been
exposed.exposed.

REARED PIGLETS PER SOWREARED PIGLETS PER SOW
PER YEAR- the number of pigletsPER YEAR- the number of piglets
reared.reared.

REARINGREARING
BOARS/REPLACEMENTBOARS/REPLACEMENT
BOARS- male pigs primarilyBOARS- male pigs primarily
raised for breeding purposes.raised for breeding purposes.

REARINGREARING
GILTS/REPLACEMENT GILTS-GILTS/REPLACEMENT GILTS-
female pigs primarily raised forfemale pigs primarily raised for
breeding purposes.breeding purposes.

RECESSIVE GENE- of aRECESSIVE GENE- of a
character possessed by onecharacter possessed by one
parent in which in a hybrid isparent in which in a hybrid is
masked by the correspondingmasked by the corresponding
alternative or dominant characteralternative or dominant character
derived from the other parent.derived from the other parent.

RECUMBENT- not able to stand;RECUMBENT- not able to stand;
too weak to stand.too weak to stand.

RECURRENT- happening orRECURRENT- happening or
appearing repeatedly.appearing repeatedly.

REPEATERS- served/ bred sowsREPEATERS- served/ bred sows
coming back into heat after failingcoming back into heat after failing
to conceive.to conceive.

REPRODUCTION- the totalREPRODUCTION- the total
process by which pigs produce offprocess by which pigs produce off
springs.springs.

RETARDATION- slowing up of aRETARDATION- slowing up of a
process.process.

RHINITIS - inflammation of theRHINITIS - inflammation of the
turbinate.turbinate.

RUDIMENTARY- simple.RUDIMENTARY- simple.

RUNT- a piglet of small sizeRUNT- a piglet of small size
compared to its littermates.compared to its littermates.

SALMONELLA- pathogenic,SALMONELLA- pathogenic,
diarrhea- producing organisms ofdiarrhea- producing organisms of
which there are over 100 knownwhich there are over 100 known
strains, sometimes present instrains, sometimes present in
contaminated feeds.contaminated feeds.

SANITATION - provisions ofSANITATION - provisions of
means whereby health ismeans whereby health is
protected or arrangements forprotected or arrangements for
disposal of manure/ waste.disposal of manure/ waste.

SCOUR- fecal looseness;SCOUR- fecal looseness;
diarrheadiarrhea

SELECTION CRITERIA- standardSELECTION CRITERIA- standard
parameters to be seen in futureparameters to be seen in future
breeders (physical andbreeders (physical and
reproductive traits orreproductive traits or
characteristics) that should becharacteristics) that should be
met.met.

SELF-FEEDER - feeding deviceSELF-FEEDER - feeding device
used for ad-libitum feedingused for ad-libitum feeding
practice.practice.

SEROLOGY- a term used inSEROLOGY- a term used in
laboratory diagnosis where serumlaboratory diagnosis where serum
is checked for the presence ofis checked for the presence of
antibodies, antigens, which wouldantibodies, antigens, which would
indicate presence of a specificindicate presence of a specific
disease.disease.

SERUM - the colorless fluidSERUM - the colorless fluid
portion of the blood remainingportion of the blood remaining
after clotting and removal ofafter clotting and removal of
corpuscles. It differs from plasmacorpuscles. It differs from plasma
in that, the fibrinogen has beenin that, the fibrinogen has been
removed.removed.

SERVICE- the act of breeding.SERVICE- the act of breeding.

SHEDDING- the passing off, orSHEDDING- the passing off, or
emission of organisms from theemission of organisms from the
animals.animals.

SHRINKAGE - weight loss.SHRINKAGE - weight loss.

SLAT- a thin or narrow piece ofSLAT- a thin or narrow piece of
wood, metal, iron, etc. used forwood, metal, iron, etc. used for
flooring in the pens.flooring in the pens.

SNOUT- long nose of the pig.SNOUT- long nose of the pig.

SOW- a mature female pig whichSOW- a mature female pig which
have been served; served femalehave been served; served female
pigs, bred to produce piglets.pigs, bred to produce piglets.

SPASM- an involuntary muscularSPASM- an involuntary muscular
contraction; if painful, usuallycontraction; if painful, usually
referred to as a cramp, if violent, areferred to as a cramp, if violent, a
convulsion.convulsion.

SPASTICITY - muscle tremor orSPASTICITY - muscle tremor or
spasm.spasm.

STALE - not fresh.STALE - not fresh.

STARTER FEED- given to pigletsSTARTER FEED- given to piglets
and weaners; usually at 45 daysand weaners; usually at 45 days
(10kg) to 100 days old (30-35kg)(10kg) to 100 days old (30-35kg)
with 18% Crude Protein.with 18% Crude Protein.

STARTERS- pigs from 15- to 30STARTERS- pigs from 15- to 30
kg.kg.

STARTING WEIGHT- initialSTARTING WEIGHT- initial
weight.weight.

STERILITY- incapacity or inabilitySTERILITY- incapacity or inability
to reproduce.to reproduce.

STERNAL RECUMBENCY- theSTERNAL RECUMBENCY- the
animal lies on its chest.animal lies on its chest.

STERNAL- referring to theSTERNAL- referring to the
sternum or chest area.sternum or chest area.

STILL BORN- a fully developedSTILL BORN- a fully developed
piglet which was born dead; stillpiglet which was born dead; still
birth.birth.

STOCK PROJECTION SHEET-STOCK PROJECTION SHEET-
worksheet which allows a pigworksheet which allows a pig
raiser to program and plan theraiser to program and plan the
number of gilts and boars to benumber of gilts and boars to be
purchased and mated at anypurchased and mated at any
given time in order to achieve thegiven time in order to achieve the
targeted population in a pig with atargeted population in a pig with a
specified level of production.specified level of production.

STRAINS - a group of organismsSTRAINS - a group of organisms
having special propertieshaving special properties
distinguishing them from the otherdistinguishing them from the other
members of the same species.members of the same species.

STRAY- to leave the place.STRAY- to leave the place.

SYSTEMIC- affecting the body asSYSTEMIC- affecting the body as
a whole rather than individuala whole rather than individual
parts/ organ.parts/ organ.

TECHNICAL PARAMETERS-TECHNICAL PARAMETERS-
monitoring data which will enablemonitoring data which will enable
the pig raiser to have a clearthe pig raiser to have a clear
understanding on the farm resultsunderstanding on the farm results
and the status of the farmand the status of the farm
performance.performance.

TEMPERAMENT - disposition.TEMPERAMENT - disposition.

TETANY - spasm and twisting ofTETANY - spasm and twisting of
the muscles, particularly those ofthe muscles, particularly those of
the face, hand and feet.the face, hand and feet.

TETHERED- tied to a post or tree.TETHERED- tied to a post or tree.

TOXEMIA - a condition whereTOXEMIA - a condition where
blood contains poisonousblood contains poisonous
products produced by the bodyproducts produced by the body
cells from microorganisms.cells from microorganisms.

TOXIN - poison.TOXIN - poison.

UDDER- composed of the teatsUDDER- composed of the teats
and mammary glands.and mammary glands.

ULCERS- wound in the stomachULCERS- wound in the stomach
or any hallowed organs.or any hallowed organs.

URINE- a fluid form in the kidneysURINE- a fluid form in the kidneys
and excreted through the urinaryand excreted through the urinary
glands.glands.

UTERUS- the part of the femaleUTERUS- the part of the female
reproductive tract where thereproductive tract where the
embryo is implanted to become aembryo is implanted to become a
fully mature piglet ready forfully mature piglet ready for
expulsion.expulsion.

VACCINATION- an injection ofVACCINATION- an injection of
vaccine, bacterin, antiserum orvaccine, bacterin, antiserum or
antitoxin to produce immunity orantitoxin to produce immunity or
tolerance to disease.tolerance to disease.

VACCINE- a suspension of killedVACCINE- a suspension of killed
microorganisms (bacteria,microorganisms (bacteria,
viruses) administered for theviruses) administered for the
prevention of infectious diseases.prevention of infectious diseases.

VENTILATION - system ofVENTILATION - system of
ensuring fresh air inside theensuring fresh air inside the
building.building.

VERMIN- small animals or kindsVERMIN- small animals or kinds
that destroy crops, feeds, etc. andthat destroy crops, feeds, etc. and
are difficult to control.are difficult to control.

VIREMIA - presence of virus inVIREMIA - presence of virus in
the blood.the blood.

VIRUS – one of a group of minuteVIRUS – one of a group of minute
infectious agents.infectious agents.

VULVA- the external genitalia ofVULVA- the external genitalia of
the female.the female.

WATERERS - drinkers.WATERERS - drinkers.

WEANED PIGLETS PER SOWWEANED PIGLETS PER SOW
PER YEAR – the average numberPER YEAR – the average number
of piglets weaned from the oneof piglets weaned from the one
sow for one year.sow for one year.

WEANER- a pig which has beenWEANER- a pig which has been
separated from its mother toseparated from its mother to
become a fully mature piglet.become a fully mature piglet.

WEIGHT GAIN- the added weightWEIGHT GAIN- the added weight
of a fattener from one period toof a fattener from one period to
another.another.

WITHERS- the highest part of theWITHERS- the highest part of the
pig’s back, above its shoulders.pig’s back, above its shoulders.

ZOONOTIC DISEASES -ZOONOTIC DISEASES -
diseases and infections that arediseases and infections that are
naturally transmitted from animalnaturally transmitted from animal
to man.to man.

Animal Science Terminologies

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (14)

Viewers also liked

Viewers also liked (6)

Similar to Animal Science Terminologies

Similar to Animal Science Terminologies (20)

More from Rudy Flores

More from Rudy Flores (15)

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded (20)

Animal Science Terminologies