Reduction of the occurrence of incorrect stunning and the occurrence of reflexes and reactions in cattle after pneumatically powered captive-bolt stunning in comparison with cartridge-fired captive-bolt stunning

In this study, the occurrence of repeat stunning, deviations in placement and direction of stun shots, and the occurrence of reflexes/reactions following stunning with a pneumatically powered captive-bolt stunner in comparison with a cartridge-fired captive-bolt stunner in cattle were assessed. Repeat stunning and deviations in placement and direction of the stun shots were less frequent (p < 0.01) with the use of a pneumatic stunner in all cattle. The rate of repeat stunning and deviation from the ideal place and direction of stun shots were lower (5.81%, 24.75%, and 9.60% of all animals, respectively) when a pneumatic stunner was used in comparison with cartridge-fired captive bolt (18.32%, 34.03%, and 47.38% of all animals, respectively). The stunning quality was assessed on the basis of evaluation of signs observed following the stun shot. A pneumatic stunning resulted in a significant reduction of occurrence of signs particularly in bulls in comparison to cows, for which a cartridge-fired stunner already provides an adequate stunning. Our study provides evidence that pneumatic stunning has the potential to be a more effective method than cartridge-fired stunning from the viewpoint of the welfare of slaughtered animals. Pneumatic stunning ensures a high quality of stunning in both bulls and cows.