21/02/2021

Pica

Pica is a poorly studied phenomenon and according to the authors of this article refers to “an abnormal appetite or consumption of nonnutritive substances considered inappropriate for development”. The present study assessed the status of serum minerals together with the hematological and biochemical parameters and antioxidant enzymes in horses with and without pica. The authors provide a general composition of the diet but unfortunately the (estimated) nutrient intake of the horses under study was not reported.

Reference

• Z. Li, Q. Liao, Y. Han, L. Deng and H. Liu. 2020. A study of serum mineral, antioxidant capacity,
and hematobiochemical parameters in horses with pica in China. J. Vet. Behav. 37 81-85.
Publisher.