Respiratory and environmental effects of recycled phone book paper versus sawdust as bedding for horses

• Published in: Journal of equine veterinary science 1998-07, Vol.18 (7), p.468-476
• Main Authors: Tanner, M.K., Swinker, A.M., Traub-Dargatz, J.L., Stiffler, L.A., McCue, P.M., Vanderwall, D.K., Johnson, D.E., Vap, L.M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: AMMONIA; ANIMAL HEALTH; CYTOLOGY; DUST; ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS; HORSES; LITTER FOR ANIMALS; RESPIRATORY SYSTEM; SAWDUST
• ISSN: 0737-0806; 1542-7412
• DOI: 10.1016/S0737-0806(98)80040-3

The physiological effect on the equine respiratory tract of recycled phone book paper vs. sawdust bedding was investigated in 12 mares with no clinical signs of respiratory disease. Mares were housed in a 20-stall barn and randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups (Group 1=sawdust; Group 2=phone book paper) for 14 days. After a 14-day turnout, Group 1 was assigned to phone book paper and Group 2 was assigned to sawdust for 14 days using a crossover experimental design. Endoscopic examinations of the upper respiratory tract and trachea along with tracheal washes (TW) were performed on days 0 and 14 of each trial. Cytologic examinations were performed on TW samples. Cell type and laboratory interpretation of TW samples were noted. There was no difference (P>0.05) in cell type between treatment groups within or across trials. Laboratory interpretation indicated no abnormalities in 30 of 48 TW samples. Stall conditions were visually rated and graded daily for drinking water cleanliness, depth of bedding and absorbency, overall cleanliness, ammonia odor, and aerial ammonia levels. The phone book paper bedding was more absorbent (P