Post mortem survey of dental disorders in 349 donkeys from an aged population (2005-2006). Part 1: prevalence of specific dental disorders.
Authors: Du Toit N, Gallagher J, Burden F A, Dixon P M
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary Dental disease in donkeys has received scant scientific attention despite growing recognition of its welfare significance in clinical practice. Du Toit and colleagues conducted post mortem examinations on 349 donkeys (median age 31 years) euthanised or that died at a UK sanctuary over 18 months, documenting the presence and distribution of specific dental pathologies to establish prevalence rates in an aged population. The findings were striking: 93% of donkeys exhibited some form of dental disorder, with cheek teeth diastemata (gaps between teeth) present in 85% of the population and frequently accompanied by advanced periodontal disease; missing teeth occurred in 56%, displaced teeth in 43%, and worn teeth in 34%, alongside less common conditions including local overgrowths, sharp overgrowths and dental-related soft tissue trauma. These prevalence figures substantially exceed what has been documented in equine populations and underscore that significant dental pathology is essentially normal in geriatric donkeys rather than an exception. For farriers, veterinarians and allied professionals, the study reinforces the necessity of systematic dental examination protocols and earlier, more aggressive prophylactic interventions—including regular floating and diastema management—to mitigate pain, improve mastication efficiency, and enhance long-term welfare in donkeys across their lifespan.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Expect significant dental disease in older donkeys (especially >25 years); routine oral examinations should be standard practice regardless of presenting complaint
- •Cheek teeth diastemata with periodontal disease is the dominant problem in aged donkeys—early intervention and preventive care may reduce progression
- •Poor dental health directly impacts welfare and quality of life; prophylactic treatments and monitoring protocols should be established for aged donkey populations
Key Findings
- •93% of aged donkeys (median age 31 years) had one or more dental disorders
- •Cheek teeth diastemata were present in 85% of donkeys, often associated with advanced periodontal disease
- •Missing teeth occurred in 55.6% of donkeys, displaced teeth in 43%, and worn teeth in 34%
- •Routine dental examinations and prophylactic treatments are important for improving dental health and welfare in aged donkeys