Electroencephalography, behavioural observations, bleed-out and temperature at the point of application in cattle receiving DTS: Diathermic Syncope® at 160–200 kJ

Society expects that animals brought to slaughter are killed humanely, taking care to manage and maintain their welfare. Rendering the animal unconscious while minimising pain, fear, or distress is one key expectation, while unconsciousness lasting long enough for the animal to die through loss of blood without regaining consciousness is another. A dielectric (electromagnetic) system, trademarked DTS: Diathermic Syncope® (DTS) has the potential to address these requirements. Twelve cattle were rendered unconscious using DTS with 160-200 kJ of energy delivered at 18 kW. In addition to Electroencephalography (EEG) the animals were carefully observed from the time of entry into the restraint until they had fully bled out for signs that could indicate consciousness. There was little sign of pain, fear or distress, in the restraint box or during energy application. Both EEG and behavioural observation confirmed that DTS induced Grand mal epilepsy in the cattle consistent with unconsciousness, within a few seconds of energy application. There was no rise in forehead temperature at the site of energy application while the animals were conscious. Later rises in temperature could result in superficial burns. The animals remained unconscious while the neck cut was applied and then bled strongly without regaining consciousness. The significant blood loss met the expectation of religious slaughter.