In the UK, most donkeys are kept, unlike the horse, as pets. Contrary to popular belief, donkeys are not just little horses with big ears. Although they belong to the equine species, they are in fact quite different to horses and ponies. All donkey owners should know the main differences between them and horses to ensure that they receive adequate and appropriate care.
Donkey behaviour
Donkeys are stoical by nature and often do not exhibit dramatic symptoms of illness. Any donkey described as dull, head held low, generally disinterested with a reduced appetite, should be seen by a vet. Poorly donkeys can display a behaviour known as ‘sham eating’. This is where the donkey seems to be interested and eating but in reality, is often only playing with the food. If this is seen, the donkey should see a vet immediately
Bonding behaviour
Donkeys generally form lifelong friendships and do not like to be alone. Bonded donkey friends may become distressed if they are separated and this can lead to complications such as inappetence and colic. Inappetence in donkeys can lead to a potentially fatal condition known as hyperlipaemia and should be avoided if at all possible. Bonding behaviour should always be considered by donkey owners. If possible, both the donkey and its companion should be kept together in the same stable, and in the same field to avoid any unnecessary distress. If one of the donkeys is euthanased, it is essential that the surviving donkey is allowed to remain with the body of their friend, until they have lost interest. If this advice is not followed it can cause significant distress to the surviving donkey. The possibility of finding a new companion for the surviving donkey should be addressed by the owner immediately.
Nutrition
The domestic donkey is descended from African wild asses that evolved to live in semi-arid environments with only poor quality, sparse vegetation. To increase their potential food sources, donkeys have evolved as browsers as well as grazers with woody shrubs and trees being potential food sources when grasses and other low vegetation are not available. Donkeys are highly efficient at digesting poor nutritional quality fibre and possess a superior digestive efficiency compared to horses when digesting forages such as straw. The donkey’s natural adaptations to survive on poor quality feed when compared to ponies means, that when donkeys are treated as mini horses or kept in the same way as their horse companions, they may become obese and subsequently develop serious health problems. This is a serious consideration for any donkey owner.
Straw should form the majority of the diet for most donkeys as it is high in fibre and low in sugar. Good quality barley straw is fine to feed to donkeys with good teeth. Oat straw would be better suited to old or underweight donkeys with good teeth as this has a slightly higher nutritional value than barley straw. A feed balancer should also be provided to give extra vitamins and minerals. Donkeys should also be given access to an equine mineral lick. Donkeys also have a particular liking for bread, carrots, apples and ginger biscuits. These can be given occasionally as treats if appropriate.
Hyperlipaemia
Hyperlipaemia is a life-threatening disease to which donkeys are particularly prone, both as a primary or secondary condition. It is therefore essential that any donkey owner is aware of measures taken to prevent, identify and treat this disease. Basically, hyperlipaemia occurs when animals mobilise triglyceride from body fat reserves in response to a negative energy balance. The end result is multi-organ failure as lipid is deposited in the liver and kidneys.
RISK FACTORS:
- Body condition: The prevalence of the disease is in fat and obese animals due to higher body fat reserves and increased insulin resistance.
- Stress: Donkeys are more susceptible to hyperlipaemia in times of stress such as transportation and environmental change.
- Age: Older animals are more prone to the disease.
- Sex: Mares are more likely to develop the disease than males.
CLINICAL SIGNS:
Clinical signs include, but are not limited to the following:
- Dullness/depression
- Inappetence/anorexia
- Gut stasis
- Halitosis
TREATMENT
A comprehensive guide to the treatment of hyperlipaemia is beyond the scope of this article, however the basic principles include:
- Treat any underlying disease
- Fluid therapy.
- Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), analgesics, anti-ulcer medication, multivitamins, anabolic steroids, antibiotics.
- Nutritional support: maintain a positive energy balance.
Prognosis
Mortality rates of 60-90% have been reported. Prognosis improves if the syndrome is detected in the early stages and prompt action is taken.
Conclusion
Donkeys are not just small horses with big ears! There are many physiological differences to consider in comparison to horses. Donkey owners be aware of the behavioural differences and specific nutritional needs. In return, donkeys will provide endless amounts of affection and entertainment for their carers.
Many thanks to Rippingale BSc (Hons), REVN, G-SQP, DipHE CVN, DipAVN (Equine), IQA, Registered Equine Veterinary Nurse and also huge donkey fan! For producing this information for our website
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