*3.2. Secondary Outcomes*

In all sheep, the general behavior and bodyweight were affected by the TFP. All sheep lost weight during the study. The average weight loss was 3.7 kg (range from 1–9 kg) at 120 h. The average weight loss was 4 kg for the foreleg group and 3.3 kg for the thorax group. The parameters that remained unchanged were respiratory rate (12–40/min), rectal body temperature (38.0–39.5 ◦C), water uptake and amount and texture of feces, which remained within normal limits for all sheep at all time points. Food uptake was reduced for the first three days for all sheep.

For all sheep, the bandage stayed in place regardless of the location. After TFP removal, the skin was slightly reddened and slightly moist in half of the sheep. These observations were made in both groups. In one sheep of the foreleg group, a part of the bandage rubbed the skin and created a 2 × 0.3 cm superficial wound.

During the first 36 h after TFP application, all sheep showed similar alternating phases, of being apathetic or excited. Apathy was observed as a reduced response to environmental influences (observer, food etc.). Excitement was shown as nervous behavior or pressing their head against the door of the fence when the observer entered the pen. Three sheep were mainly extremely nervous, 3 others head-pressed, and during this time period two sheep were observed frequently walking back and forth along the fence.

Eight out of 12 sheep displayed hypersalivation. These behavioral abnormalities started in six sheep after 3 h, in four sheep after 6 h, and in two after 12 h. In seven sheep, the abnormal behavior disappeared 72 h after TFP application. For the rest after 36 h. These behavioral changes occurred in both groups equally and were not related to a specific fentanyl plasma level.
