Pithing: meaning, definitions and examples

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pithing

 

[ ˈpɪθɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

animal euthanasia

Pithing is a method of euthanizing animals by destroying the central nervous system, usually through a swift and precise insertion of a tool into the skull. This technique is often utilized in situations where a rapid death is required, minimizing distress to the animal. Pithing is considered to be a humane method of killing and is commonly used in veterinary practices and some slaughterhouses. It requires knowledge and skill to perform correctly, ensuring the quick and effective loss of consciousness without unnecessary pain.

Synonyms

euthanizing, stunning

Examples of usage

  • The veterinarian decided to use pithing to euthanize the sick horse.
  • In some humane societies, pithing is employed for its efficiency.
  • Pithing was taught in the veterinary college as part of the animal euthanasia curriculum.

Translations

Translations of the word "pithing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 eviscerar

🇮🇳 पिथिंग

🇩🇪 Eviszerieren

🇮🇩 menguangkan isi

🇺🇦 випотрошення

🇵🇱 wykrwawienie

🇯🇵 内臓を取り出す

🇫🇷 éviscération

🇪🇸 evisceración

🇹🇷 içini boşaltma

🇰🇷 내장을 제거하다

🇸🇦 إخراج الأعضاء الداخلية

🇨🇿 vydření

🇸🇰 eviscerácia

🇨🇳 剖腹

🇸🇮 evisceracija

🇮🇸 innri hluti fjarlægja

🇰🇿 ішкі органдарын алу

🇬🇪 შიგთავსის ამოღება

🇦🇿 daxili orqanları çıxarma

🇲🇽 evisceración

Etymology

The term 'pithing' originates from the word 'pith,' which refers to the tissue at the center of a plant stem or the essence of something. It was adapted in this context to describe the act of destroying the central nervous system of animals. The practice dates back to the early practices of animal husbandry and slaughtering, where a more humane approach was needed to ensure quick and painless death. Over time, pithing has been refined and examined within veterinary medicine and animal welfare discussions, leading to the establishment of this method as part of ethical animal treatment protocols. Its application has evolved alongside advancements in veterinary sciences and animal rights awareness, leading to ongoing debates regarding the most humane methods of euthanasia.