Stress resistant and stress susceptible landrace pigs: comparison of blood variables after exposure to halothane or exercise on a treadmill

Abstract

Stress susceptible pigs develop pale, soft, exudative pork as a consequence of exposure to natural stress or exposure to halothane. Hyperstimulation of glycolysis is a major component of the stress reaction. Whether natural and artificial stress have other similarities was investigated by exposing pigs to halothane or to physical exercise, and measuring their blood composition. There were many similarities between the two groups but the significant differences suggest that although both halothane and exercise induce glycolysis, the mechanisms involved are different.