Animal welfare

APHA specialises in research to assess the physiological indices of stress and reproduction by non-invasive means in many different species. Apart from the obvious negative welfare effects of blood sampling, the technique can also trigger other adverse physiological effects such as an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which can be fatal.

As a result APHA has developed a range of non-invasive techniques to measure stress hormones (cortisol and corticosterone) and reproductive indicators (such as progesterone) in faeces and saliva. Using these substrates means disturbance to the animals is minimised, and avoids the need for expensive training in regulating procedures.

Our Service

Non-invasive measurement of physiology

We are constantly developing new assays and have the capability and expertise to respond to requests for assays suitable for novel species.

Flexible services tailored to your needs

Our services can be tailored to meet individual clients’ requirements – ranging from basic analytical services to a comprehensive package. We can provide:

  • Hormone measurement from faeces and/or saliva
  • Advice and assistance with sampling methods and techniques
  • Data interpretation and report production

Expertise

Our specialists in stress and reproductive hormone analysis conduct research for and advise various policy divisions of Defra. We also provide services to private clients such as Flamingo Land, the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust and a number of universities.

Latest News

Keep up to date with the latest news and information from APHA Scientific

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Meet APHA Scientific at EAVLD 2026

APHA Scientific will be attending the EAVLD 2026 Congress in Athens, connecting with veterinary diagnosticians and laboratory professionals from across Europe. Visit our team to learn more about our proficiency testing schemes, diagnostic reagents and quality assurance solutions for veterinary laboratories.

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World Buiatrics Congress 2026

The World Buiatrics Congress 2026 provides a global platform for sharing knowledge on cattle health and production. APHA Scientific will be showcasing products and expertise that support the diagnosis and control of important bovine diseases.

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Supporting laboratory validation with pathology control blocks

FFPE control materials are now available to support training, quality assurance and specialised laboratory testing.

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APHA Science in Partnership Conference

APHA Scientific will be attending the APHA Science in Partnership Conference in York this November. The event brings together stakeholders from across science, policy and industry to explore collaboration, innovation and shared challenges.

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New Salmonella Serotyping Antisera

Our Salmonella serotyping antisera portfolio is now available, supporting confirmation, serogrouping and flagellar characterisation in veterinary diagnostic laboratories.

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APHA Scientific to contribute expertise at chemical and biological risk management event

APHA will join the Star Ecotronics training event APHA, including a roundtable session for direct engagement with VETQAS customers.

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2026–2027 Biological Reagent Price List

New pricing for our biological reagents is now available, with updated costs applying from 1 April 2026.

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AHNTI EU 2026 in London

Meet our Business Development team at AHNTI EU 2026, where 850+ leaders are shaping the future of animal health.

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