Veterinary Science, Technologies of Animal Husbandry and Nature Management

Influence of weaning time and feeding conditions on the growth and development of lambs

I. A. Pomitun — 2025-11-27

The article presents the results of a comprehensive study on the influence of weaning age and feeding conditions on the formation of the productive potential of young Prekos sheep under traditional sheep-farming technology. The aim of the work was to investigate the dynamics of the formation and the degree of realization of the productive potential of young sheep with the improvement of the system of growing and feeding. The research was carried out in two scientific and economic experiments: with three options for the duration of the suckling period (45, 60 and 90 days) and by comparing two systems for raising lambs from 90 days of age (at weaning) to 365 days of age. To increase the efficiency of feeding, an improved design of the feed table with a movable limiter was used. It was found that lambs weaned at 90 days had a 2.1 times greater mass compared to those weaned at 45 days. However, by the age of one year the difference between the groups decreased, which indicates the compensatory ability of young animals provided that they were properly fed after weaning. The average live weight of lambs (by the age of one year) weaned at 45 days was 34.20±1.42 kg, at 60 days – 36.90±0.97 kg, and at 90 days – 43.88±1.20 kg. Overall, lambs weaned at 60 and 90 days surpassed those with a 45-day suckling period in live weight at all growth stages. The strongest influence of the growing and feeding system during the suckling period was revealed for live weight at 365 days (ηx² = 44.1%) and for average daily gains in the post-weaning period (ηx² = 30.2%). It was also found that early weaning caused higher growth tension, whereas later weaning contributed to more uniform development of lambs. It has been demonstrated that optimizing the structural elements of the feeder table ensures more efficient feed access for young animals and increases the effectiveness of resource-saving management technologies. The data obtained can be used to improve the system of raising and feeding lambs, taking into account age, production goals, and the economic feasibility of reducing the suckling period.

Efficiency of a modular system for treating recycling water in a closed water supply plant

D. O. Shablii — 2025-11-27

Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) with modular recirculating water treatment systems are a promising solution for the development of aquaculture in Ukraine, including private farms. The production of high-quality fish products is achieved through the use of aquaculture production systems that have a minimal impact on the environment. RAS systems make it possible to reduce water consumption through its reuse, thereby promoting the intensive production of dietary fish without polluting the natural environment. Future improvements in RAS have two trends: (1) technical improvements in the water recirculation cycle and (2) in the filtration and inactivation of metabolic products. Both design directions contribute to improving the environmental performance of RAS. The review identifies key research priorities that will contribute to the future reduction of the environmental impact of RAS on the external environment. Possible new developments, such as an ultraviolet water sterilizer, could increase the efficiency of RAS and further the development of aquaculture. This article examines the effectiveness of such a system in removing mechanical and chemical contaminants from water, as well as the economic efficiency of using a modular purification system. Based on the research, it was found that modular purification systems have a high efficiency coefficient. Such purification systems remove up to 98% of all solid pollutants and up to 70% of ammonia and nitrites in a single pass through the filtration system.

Comparative effectiveness of two treatment methods for overweight dogs with hip dysplasia

Y. M. Busel — 2025-11-27

Hip dysplasia is one of the most common orthopedic pathologies in dogs, particularly affecting large breeds and animals with excessive body weight. Obesity significantly exacerbates the clinical manifestations of canine hip dysplasia by increasing mechanical load on affected joints and promoting osteoarthritis progression through biomechanical and biochemical mechanisms. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic analysis and compare the effectiveness of conservative treatment using autologous protein solution with surgical treatment via hip arthroplasty in overweight dogs with hip dysplasia. A comprehensive analysis of 50 peer-reviewed scientific publications from international databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus) covering the period 2000–2025 was performed. The analysis revealed that conservative treatment with autologous protein solution demonstrates significant efficacy in dogs with mild to moderate hip dysplasia when combined with weight loss programs, showing improvement in lameness scores of 45–60 % and reduction in pain assessment within 28 days post-treatment. Surgical intervention via total hip replacement or acetabular augmentation provides more definitive results in severe cases, with success rates of 85–92 % in restoring limb function, although it carries higher risks of complications in overweight patients, including increased rates of luxation, implant loosening, and delayed wound healing. Weight loss prior to any therapeutic intervention significantly improves outcomes, with dogs that lost 15–20 % of body weight demonstrating 40 % better response to both conservative and surgical treatment. Obesity not only increases biomechanical load on dysplastic joints but also promotes systemic inflammation through adipokine production, further accelerating cartilage degradation. Treatment selection should be individualized based on dysplasia severity, osteoarthritis degree, body condition score assessment, age, and owner compliance with rehabilitation protocols.

Agglutation reaction: evolution of methodological approaches and fields of application

H. I. Harahulya — 2025-11-27

One of the most important sections in medical and veterinary microbiology is the diagnosis of infectious diseases using immunological reactions, which uses a specific immune reaction between antigens and antibodies with the formation of an "antigen-antibody" complex. This interaction was first used in agglutination, precipitation, neutralization, and complement fixation reactions, and later modern reactions were developed based on them. The basis of all serological reactions is the interaction of antigens and antibodies, but the types of antigens, the nature of the interaction of antibodies with antigens, the number of components, the methods of performing reactions, and the methods of accounting them differ. Among the arsenal of diagnostic methods, the agglutination reaction has become a universal tool for identifying antigens and antibodies. In this article, we have attempted to analyze the principles, applications, and advantages of various variants of the agglutination reaction, emphasizing its importance in clinical and research settings based on data from foreign scientific literature. The popularity of agglutination is due to its many advantages. The most important advantages are the simplicity and speed of the reaction. In addition, most agglutination reactions can be performed using basic, inexpensive laboratory equipment. Compared to most modern methods, most agglutination tests are highly specific and sensitive, providing accurate results even at low analyte concentrations. These qualities contribute to its widespread use in clinical settings and scientific research in the fields of microbiology and immunology. It allows rapid identification and differentiation of microbial antigen types. This helps in epidemiological studies. With the development of technology, improvements in agglutination reactions are expected. Researchers are studying the integration of nanotechnology and molecular biology methods to increase the sensitivity and specificity of the analysis. In addition, efforts are being made to expand the range of available reagents to cover a wider range of pathogens and antigens. These advances have the potential to further improve the diagnostic capabilities of agglutination reactions, making them an even more indispensable tool in medical and biological research. Agglutination reactions have proven themselves as a versatile and reliable diagnostic tool in both clinical and research settings.

Development of a scheme of treatment measures for complex respiratory diseases in cats

Y. V. Hlushchenko — 2026-01-22

The article presents the results of a comparison of the therapeutic efficacy of two therapeutic regimens for complex respiratory diseases in cats. The etiology of complex respiratory diseases in cats is complex and can be caused byseveral viral and bacterial pathogens simultaneously. The most common co-infections are primary pathogens such as feline herpesvirus-1, feline calicivirus, Bordetella bronchiseptica, Chlamydia felis, and Mycoplasma felis. The presence of co-infections may result in more severe clinical signs than infections caused by a single pathogen. Most researchers report the difficulty of treating associated respiratory diseases in cats. The aim of our study was to compare therapeutic regimens using specific serum and the primary use of agents that affect the viral pathogen and the immune system in the treatment of respiratory co-infections in cats. The study involved 12 cats aged 4-8 months, which were treated at the veterinary clinic in Apostolovo, Dnipropetrovsk region during 2025. The diagnosis of viral respiratory infections was confirmed by standard rapid tests based on immunochromatography. Bordetelliosis was confirmed bacteriologically by examining oropharyngeal swabs and transnasal wash samples according to standard methods. One group of animals (n=6) received a treatment regimen without the use of immunostimulating and antiviral drugs. Animals of the control group (n=6) received immunostimulating drugs “Melavit” (manufacturer PJSC Ukrzoovetprompostach, Ukraine) and “Placestim” (manufacturer Vet Line, Ukraine). Also, the antiviral drug “Albuvir” (manufacturer NPP Agrovet, Ukraine) was added to the optimized treatment regimen. The primary use of an antiviral drug and immunomodulators in a comprehensive treatment regimen for respiratory co-infections in cats compared to the use of specific serum showed a higher therapeutic effect. In animals treated according to the developed scheme, clinical recovery occurred 10-12 days after the start of treatment. During this period, signs of purulent conjunctivitis were absent, breathing improved, and wheezing was not heard.

Modern classification, characterization, and distribution of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) strains in the world and in Ukraine (review)

A. V. Zhukovska — 2025-11-27

Avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is one of the most prevalent viral diseases in industrial poultry farming and is characterized by high genetic variability of the pathogen. Due to its ability to rapidly mutate and recombine, the virus constantly generates new genetic variants, complicating diagnosis, prevention, epizootic control, and classification. Representatives of different IBV genotypes are important in veterinary virology, vaccination strategies, and epidemiological monitoring. The aim of this review article is to describe the classification of IBV genetic lineages based on genetic and phylogenetic studies, to examine the global and Ukrainian distribution of the main genotypes, and to substantiate the need for monitoring circulating strains in poultry farms.

The study systematizes data on known IBV lineages, including the newly identified genotypes GVII, GVIII, and GIX. Current data indicate that IBV strains are classified into nine major genotypes (GI–GIX), comprising a total of 41 genetic lineages. The largest genotype, GI, includes 31 lineages, while others such as GII, GIII, and GIV are represented by one or two lineages each. Literature analysis revealed that the most widespread genetic lineages are Massachusetts (GI-1), 793B (GI-13), QX (GI-19), and Variant 2 (GI-23), which dominate in different regions of the world. In Ukraine, the circulation of strains 4/91 (793B), Variant 2, QX, Mass, and D274 has been confirmed. The article highlights the considerable genetic variability of IBV and its global distribution.

The implementation of an IBV monitoring and control system is essential for effective disease prevention and minimizing economic losses.

Mathematical-statistical analysis of the biological interaction of members of parasitocenoses of the intestinal canal of turkeys and its prognostic value

P. V. Liulin — 2025-11-27

The results of the mathematical and statistical analysis of the biological interaction of co-members of the parasitic coenoses of the intestinal canal of turkeys are presented, the status of the pathogens, correlation interdependencies and their significance in ensuring the processes of self-regulation of ecological and parasitic systems and manifestations of the epizootic process are determined. The purpose of the work: to conduct a mathematical and statistical analysis of the biological interaction/interdependence of the co-members of the intestinal parasitic infections of turkeys. Clinical, epizootological, parasitological, mathematical analysis and statistical methods of research were used. According to the results of the research, the epizootic situation regarding the spread of intestinal invasions of turkeys (EI – 42,44%) was established, including parasitic infections of two-, three- and more component invasions (EI – 23,96%), which amounted to 56,46% of the number of infected turkeys. The biodiversity of parasitocenoses was studied, 15 species of pathogens were identified, of which 8 species are representatives of the simplest types of Apicomplexa, Zoomastyophora and 7 species of helminths: 5 species of representatives of the nematode class, 2 species of the cestode class. The status of pathogens in parasitocenoses (main, secondary, additional) and their shares - the species index of parasitocenosis (SIP, %) were determined. A mathematical and statistical analysis of the correlation interdependencies of the co-members of parasitocenoses and the degree of their biological interaction was carried out. The highest statistical relationship between the total infestation and the dominant - the main pathogens of parasitocenoses Eimeria spp. (0,91); mixed invasions by Histomonas meleagridis, Ascaridia sp., Capillaria spp., Raillietina spp. at the level of 0,80 – 0,99 and a decrease in the correlation dependencies of the co-members of parasitocenoses in the presence of 4 or more component invasions with the participation of Eimeria spp., which is an indicator of the biological interaction of the co-members of the parasitocenosis – synergistic interaction of pathogens at high and competitive relationships, respectively at low levels of correlation, which is one of the mechanisms for ensuring self-regulation of the manifestations of the epizootic process and the functioning of ecological-parasitic systems.

Rehabilitation potential in dogs with gastroenteritis

O. V. Matsenko — 2025-11-27

Gastroenteritis is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders in dogs, recorded among representatives of all breeds and age groups, with such clinical signs as anorexia, depression, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms are complex in nature, encompassing both local gastrointestinal disturbances and systemic changes caused by dehydration and intoxication. In this study, for the first time, the diagnostic informativeness of a methodological approach based on determining the rehabilitation potential of sick animals was analyzed. The criteria for this assessment include hematological and biochemical blood parameters. Rehabilitation potential is an indicator of the animal's potential ability to achieve complete recovery within a certain period of time. This method was first proposed and implemented in 2024–2025 at the Department of Internal Diseases and Clinical Diagnostics of Animals of the State Biotechnological University during the examination of clinically healthy dogs kept in an animal shelter. Determining the rehabilitation potential made it possible to qualitatively and quantitatively assess the adaptive capabilities of dogs’ organisms during long-term shelter maintenance. Previously, this methodological approach had not been applied to the examination of animals suffering from gastroenteritis.

Analysis of laboratory test results revealed a significant decrease in hemoglobin, erythrocytes, and eosinophilic leukocytes, as well as an increase in the total number of leukocytes. Biochemical studies showed elevated activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), along with reduced levels of total protein, albumin, and potassium in the blood of affected dogs. These changes were caused by inflammatory processes of the gastric and intestinal mucosa, dehydration, hepatic hypoxia, and the action of toxic substances due to intestinal barrier dysfunction. Calculations of the degree of rehabilitation potential provided an integral assessment of the health status of sick dogs and the potential adaptive capacity of their organisms, which was determined to be low.

The obtained results may be useful for developing effective treatment methods for dogs with gastroenteritis. The informativeness of the animals’ rehabilitation potential, based on hematological and biochemical serum parameters, is emphasized.

Clinical and hematological indicators under different methods of dogs treatment with sacroiliac joint instability

V. O. Novytskyi — 2025-11-27

The aim of the study was to develop an algorithm for the clinical examination of dogs with traumatic sacroiliac joint (SIJ) instability and to compare hematological changes under different surgical intervention methods and anesthetic protocols. The study was conducted on 21 dogs with traumatic SIJ instability, divided into three groups of 7 animals each, at the “Discovery” veterinary clinic (Dnipro, Ukraine, 2020–2025). The first group underwent open surgical intervention with postoperative analgesia using lidocaine (2 mg/kg/h intravenously). The second group received minimally invasive closed surgery with the same analgesia protocol. The third group underwent minimally invasive surgery with postoperative epidural analgesia using 0.2% bupivacaine. Diagnosis was based on clinical signs (pain syndrome, lameness, movement asymmetry) and radiographic findings. Hematological parameters (erythrocytes, hemoglobin, leukocytes, platelets) were analyzed before surgery and on days 3, 7, 14, 21, and 48 post-surgery. In the first group, a significant decrease in erythrocytes and hemoglobin (p<0.05) was observed on days 3–7, indicating a pronounced systemic response to trauma. In the second and third groups, red blood cell parameters stabilized faster, and leukocyte counts normalized by day 14 (compared to day 48 in the first group), suggesting a reduced inflammatory response with minimally invasive methods. Platelet levels showed a tendency to decrease in the early days across all groups but normalized by days 14–21. In the third group, platelet levels were significantly higher (p<0.05) on day 48, though within normal limits. The results indicate that minimally invasive surgical methods provide faster recovery and a reduced inflammatory response. The closed minimally invasive method is recommended for treating SIJ instability in dogs.

Psycho-emotional state of dogs with different autonomic nervous system tones under acute stress

V. I. Redko — 2025-11-27

The problem of stress resistance in dogs is an important aspect of modern veterinary medicine and ethology, as it directly affects the health, behavior, and performance of animals in service, sport, and therapeutic activities. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a key role in regulating the psycho-emotional state, determining the speed and intensity of responses to stress stimuli. The aim of the study was to determine the specific effects of different types of autonomic tone on the dynamics of the psycho-emotional state of dogs under conditions of acute stress and ordinary anxiety, and to identify the mechanisms of ANS involvement in the formation of behavioral responses. The study was conducted on 30 dogs with different autonomic statuses. The psycho-emotional state was assessed using the modified FAS scale (FAS-M) in dynamics. It was found that normotonic dogs under acute stress exhibited a moderate increase in psycho-emotional state, indicating balanced reactivity and adaptive capacity. Vagotonics had minimal baseline values (0.3–1.5 units), but in response to acute stress they sharply increased (up to 2.5 units), followed by a rapid decline by the end of the experiment (1.3 units), indicating unstable adaptation dynamics. Sympathicotonics showed consistently high excitability levels (1.9–2.3 units) and the most pronounced stress response (up to 3.1 units), maintaining elevated anxiety even during ordinary anxiety days (2.5–2.8 units), which reflects their low adaptability. Analysis of the influence of individual ANS branches showed the dominance of sympathicotonia at the initial stages (0.4 units on the first day) with a gradual decline to 0.04–0.31 units in the following days, while vagotonia displayed a phase-like pattern: from moderate values at the start (0.22–0.36 units) to suppression on days 2–3 (0–0.02 units), and a renewed increase on day 5 (0.46 units). Thus, the type of autonomic tone is a determining factor in shaping the stress response in dogs. This suggests that autonomic tone type can be considered a prognostic marker of individual stress resistance and a basis for developing practical correction methods in veterinary practice.

Nosological profile of ophthalmological and dental pathology of dogs and cats in the city of Dniprо

V. V. Samoilіuk — 2025-11-27

The prevalence of ophthalmological and dental pathology in dogs and cats was determined by analyzing statistical data obtained from veterinary clinics in the city of Dnipro. The most common ophthalmological diseases were conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and keratitis. Corneal ulcers and injuries to the eye and auxiliary apparatus were recorded more often in cats than in dogs, and among oncological diseases, lymphoma of the eye. Cataracts and prolapse of the third eyelid were diagnosed more frequently in dogs. Papillomatous lesions of the oral cavity were recorded only in young dogs. Male individuals were more often affected, and ophthalmological pathology was observed in mestizos and the following breeds: cocker spaniel, poodle, dachshund, shar pei, german shepherd, and labrador. Corneal lesions were often found in brachycephalic dogs. In cats, ophthalmological diseases were mainly diagnosed in mongrels and animals of scottish, persian, british breeds and sphinxes. Of the oncological diseases, eye lymphoma is significantly prevalent in animals, which was recorded with a higher frequency in cats. A significant prevalence of oral diseases in dogs and cats has been confirmed. Of the dental problems, periodontitis, tartar, malocclusion and gingivostomatitis were more frequently diagnosed. In dogs, malocclusion and tumors of the oral cavity were recorded with a higher frequency, and in cats, gingivostomatitis and injuries and fractures of the jaws. Periodontal disease and tartar are the most common dental problems in animals of both species. A predisposition to both ophthalmological and dental pathology is noted in brachycephalics. The conducted statistical analysis provides additional information about the prevalence of ophthalmological and dental pathology in dogs and cats, and the obtained research results may be useful for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of these diseases.

Morphological characteristics of the stomach of the Yemeni chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus)

S. M. Skachko — 2025-11-27

Abstract. Stomach disease in Yemeni chameleons (Chamaeleo calyptratus) is a fairly common pathology of the digestive tract. At the same time, information on the features of its microscopic structure is absent. The features of the histological structure, age-related morphometric indicators of the stomach of Yemeni chameleons of 1-, 7-, 14-day-old, 1-, 2-, 3, 6- 8-month-old and 1-year-old were determined. Histological preparations were made from a cross-section of the middle part of the stomach, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, according to Mallory, in the PAS test. Based on histological, histochemical, and morphometric studies, a morphofunctional characteristic of the stomach of the Yemeni chameleon of 9 age groups during the first year of the postnatal period of ontogenesis was provided. Four layers were found in the stomach wall of the Yemeni chameleon: mucosa, submucosa, muscularis, and serosa. The mucosa consists of three layers: epithelial, lamina propria, and muscularis propria. The epithelial layer is represented by a single-layered, single-row prismatic epithelium. Two main cell populations were found in the epithelial layer: superficial, represented by mucocytes, and deep, represented by oxynticopeptic cells. Mucocytes cover the finger-shaped protrusions of the lamina propria between the openings of the glands and form villi. Oxynticopeptic cells are immersed in the lamina propria of the mucosa and form deep tubular glands. The muscularis mucosae consists of two thin layers of smooth muscle cells: an outer longitudinal layer and an inner circular layer, which extends to the base of the villi and, together with loose fibrous connective tissue, is located between the secretory departments of the glands. The submucosal base, in the form of a thin plate, which is built of loose fibrous connective tissue, separates the mucous membrane from the muscularis. The muscularis consists of two layers, which are built of smooth muscle tissue: a thick inner circular layer and a thin outer longitudinal layer. The increase in the thickness of the stomach wall occurred due to the mucous membrane and, to a much greater extent, due to the muscularis. The increase in the thickness of the mucous membrane occurred due to an increase in the depth of the tubular glands. The most stable morphometric indicators, which did not have a significant difference in animals of different age groups, were the width of the secretory departments of the glands, the height of the villi, and the thickness of the serous membrane.

Comprehensive treatment of dogs with gastrointestinal diseases accompanied by malabsorption syndrome

O. S. Khilobok — 2025-11-27

Malabsorption syndrome in dogs is a complex multifactorial condition characterized by impaired digestion and absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. The main clinical signs include chronic or intermittent diarrhea, steatorrhea, flatulence, weight loss, decreased appetite, poor coat quality, general lethargy, and signs of secondary malnutrition. Comprehensive treatment involved pharmacological therapy tailored to the underlying disease and specialized diet therapy using veterinary diets with nutraceutical properties. Within the first two weeks of treatment, improvements were observed, including reduced defecation frequency, normalization of stool consistency, disappearance of mucus and fat inclusions, improved appetite, increased activity, and enhanced coat condition. Post-treatment coprological examinations indicated restored digestive processes: stools became well-formed, signs of enzymatic insufficiency disappeared, and fecal pH stabilized. Serial blood biochemistry analyses demonstrated normalization of protein, lipid, and mineral metabolism, as well as a reduction in inflammatory markers. These included increased levels of total protein, albumin, cobalamin, and 25(OH)D, alongside decreased ALP activity, cholesterol, and C-reactive protein (CRP), indicating reduced inflammation and improved intestinal function. Ultrasound examinations revealed decreased intestinal wall thickness, improved motility, and resolution of lymphangiectasia, excessive gas, and signs of inflammation in most dogs. In some cases, normalization of liver and pancreatic echogenicity and reduced size of mesenteric lymph nodes confirmed positive structural dynamics. Thus, the results of this clinical study confirm the efficacy of a comprehensive therapeutic approach to canine malabsorption syndrome, with diet therapy playing a central role. The use of hydrolyzed proteins, prebiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants contributed to faster and more sustained clinical recovery, normalization of laboratory parameters, and restoration of gastrointestinal morphology and function.

Gеnetic implications of inbreeding in farm animals: evidence from a case of cyclopia

Т. І. Yakymenko — 2025-11-27

Inbreeding, or close-relative mating, is a traditional and highly effective tool in the selection of farm animals, primarily aimed at fixing desirable economic traits. However, uncontrolled and intensive inbreeding carries significant genetic risks that fundamentally alter the genotypic structure of a population. The primary genetic consequence is a sharp increase in homozygosity, which inevitably leads to the expression of harmful, sublethal, or lethal recessive mutations. This phenomenon, known as inbreeding depression, often severely impairs both biological and economic performance.

This study analyzes the theoretical genetic aspects of inbreeding and the phenomenon of inbreeding depression in the context of commercial animal husbandry. Furthermore, we present a series of clinical cases of severe congenital malformations-namely, cyclopia, holoprosencephaly, and otocephaly - documented in various farm animal species, including horses, sheep/goats, and rabbits. These severe anomalies, often fatal and associated with mutations in key developmental regulatory genes, are used as direct indicators of genetic risk. The described cases provide concrete evidence of the increased vulnerability of populations with a narrow gene pool to the manifestation of rare recessive genetic defects.

The research materials include a review of classical genetic models, statistical data on the prevalence of anomalies, and documented clinical cases, including our own results from full-sibling crossings in rabbits. The results of this integrated analysis underscore the necessity of meticulous genetic monitoring and the implementation of molecular screening in all breeding populations. We recommend maintaining the inbreeding coefficient below 5 – 6 % over five generations, consistently rotating unrelated sires, and systematically excluding known carriers of lethal recessive mutations to mitigate the negative consequences of genetic load.

Diagnosis of anthrax under martial law in Ukraine: problems and ways of improvement

U. M. Yanenko — 2025-11-27

Anthrax remains a highly relevant zoonotic disease that poses a serious threat to animal and human health. Recent years have seen an increase in the frequency and spatial expansion of anthrax outbreaks in different regions of the world, including Ukraine. The resilience of Bacillus anthracis spores in the environment, as well as the potential for the pathogen’s deliberate use, necessitate ongoing epidemiological monitoring and improved diagnostic approaches. This study aims to assess the current epizootic situation of anthrax in Ukraine and analyze the effectiveness of diagnostic methods used by veterinary laboratories. The research is based on the official reporting data of the State Service of Ukraine on Food Safety and Consumer Protection (Form No. 2-Vet). Standard epizootological, statistical, and retrospective methods were employed to evaluate the incidence and detection trends of anthrax in different regions. The results reveal isolated outbreaks in certain territories with the identification of environmental foci, indicating incomplete decontamination of anthrax-prone sites. The findings highlight the need to update risk assessment models and reinforce biosafety protocols in veterinary practice. The article outlines priority directions for strengthening anthrax surveillance in Ukraine under current epidemiological and geopolitical conditions.

Culture and long-term storage of mycobacterial cultures

Yu. V. Andrienko — 2025-11-27

Diagnosis of animal tuberculosis remains an urgent task of veterinary phthisiology. Despite the success achieved, it is still necessary to improve and develop modern methods of indicating and identifying mycobacteria from biological material. For this purpose, a number of nutrient media are used. The aim of the work was to comprehensively improve the system of cultivation and long-term storage of Mycobacterium avium cultures using modern lyophilization technologies and to develop a special selective nutrient medium. During experimental studies, a comparison of the growth of M. avium culture on the classical Löwenstein-Jensen egg medium and the developed “KIT” accumulation medium was carried out. It was established that the “KIT” medium allows to reduce the time of isolation of mycobacterial cultures by 5–7 days and increase the percentage of positive isolations by 27%, which significantly speeds up the process of bacteriological diagnostics. Mycobacteria were isolated from the blood of experimentally infected laboratory animals using the "KIT" nutrient medium. Thus, the highest percentage of isolation from blood was observed in guinea pigs that were inoculated with a suspension of Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare complex. It was found that the serum-glucose protective suspension medium and the drying regime effectively preserve the viability and enzymatic activity of mycobacterial strains for more than 30 years. The conducted study allowed to develop and test a comprehensive system of improved cultivation and long-term storage of mycobacteria M. avium, which includes the use of a new accumulation medium "KIT" and an optimized lyophilization regime using serum-glucose protective suspension medium. The results of the study are recommended to be implemented in the production practice of the biological industry and veterinary laboratories, which will ensure the stability and efficiency of work with Mycobacterium avium cultures.