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Khan K, Kaya M, Fidan ED, Kilimci FS. Impact of litter on femur and tibial morphology, bone biomechanics, and leg health parameters in broiler chickens. Anim Biosci 2023; 36:1393-1402. [PMID: 36915925 PMCID: PMC10472162 DOI: 10.5713/ab.22.0335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study effects of three types of beddings on broiler leg health and bone biomechanics were evaluated. METHODS A total of 504 male chicks (Ross 308) were randomly placed on three beddings (4 replicates/group; 42 birds/pen), zeolite-added litter (ZL), plastic-grid flooring (PF), and wood shavings (WS). On day 42, chickens were weighed, slaughtered, and samples (bone, muscle, and drumstick) were collected. Bones were subjected to leg health tests, morphometric measurements, biomechanical testing, and ash analysis. RESULTS Broilers in PF and WS groups showed higher live weight than the ZL group (p<0.001), and the incidence of tibial dyschondroplasia (TD) and varus valgus deformity due to distal bending was significantly higher in PF (p<0.001). Multinomial logistic regression showed that bedding has a significant (p = 0.038) contribution toward the development of TD. Tibial strength (p = 0.040), drumstick width (p = 0.001), and total femur and epiphyseal ash contents (p = 0.044, 0.016) were higher in the ZL group. Chicken live weight was correlated with tibial length and weight (r = 0.762, 0.725). CONCLUSION Flooring and the type of bedding material directly affect broiler bone length, strength and leg health. Plastic bedding improves the slaughter weight of chickens on the expense of leg deformities, and zeolite litter improves leg health and bone strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Khan
- Department of Basic Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (sub-campus Jhang), Lahore 35200,
Pakistan
| | - Mehmet Kaya
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın 09016,
Turkey
| | - Evrim Dereli Fidan
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın 09016,
Turkey
| | - Figen Sevil Kilimci
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın 09016,
Turkey
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2
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Schmidt CG, Herskin MS, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Padalino B, Pasquali P, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Tiemann I, de Jong I, Gebhardt‐Henrich SG, Keeling L, Riber AB, Ashe S, Candiani D, García Matas R, Hempen M, Mosbach‐Schulz O, Rojo Gimeno C, Van der Stede Y, Vitali M, Bailly‐Caumette E, Michel V. Welfare of broilers on farm. EFSA J 2023; 21:e07788. [PMID: 36824680 PMCID: PMC9941850 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2023.7788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This Scientific Opinion considers the welfare of domestic fowl (Gallus gallus) related to the production of meat (broilers) and includes the keeping of day-old chicks, broiler breeders, and broiler chickens. Currently used husbandry systems in the EU are described. Overall, 19 highly relevant welfare consequences (WCs) were identified based on severity, duration and frequency of occurrence: 'bone lesions', 'cold stress', 'gastro-enteric disorders', 'group stress', 'handling stress', 'heat stress', 'isolation stress', 'inability to perform comfort behaviour', 'inability to perform exploratory or foraging behaviour', 'inability to avoid unwanted sexual behaviour', 'locomotory disorders', 'prolonged hunger', 'prolonged thirst', 'predation stress', 'restriction of movement', 'resting problems', 'sensory under- and overstimulation', 'soft tissue and integument damage' and 'umbilical disorders'. These WCs and their animal-based measures (ABMs) that can identify them are described in detail. A variety of hazards related to the different husbandry systems were identified as well as ABMs for assessing the different WCs. Measures to prevent or correct the hazards and/or mitigate each of the WCs are listed. Recommendations are provided on quantitative or qualitative criteria to answer specific questions on the welfare of broilers and related to genetic selection, temperature, feed and water restriction, use of cages, light, air quality and mutilations in breeders such as beak trimming, de-toeing and comb dubbing. In addition, minimal requirements (e.g. stocking density, group size, nests, provision of litter, perches and platforms, drinkers and feeders, of covered veranda and outdoor range) for an enclosure for keeping broiler chickens (fast-growing, slower-growing and broiler breeders) are recommended. Finally, 'total mortality', 'wounds', 'carcass condemnation' and 'footpad dermatitis' are proposed as indicators for monitoring at slaughter the welfare of broilers on-farm.
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Mace JL, Knight A. The Impacts of Colony Cages on the Welfare of Chickens Farmed for Meat. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:2988. [PMID: 36359112 PMCID: PMC9654349 DOI: 10.3390/ani12212988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing interest in keeping meat chickens in modern colony cages (CCs) rather than conventional litter-floor barns. Suggested welfare improvements for chickens in such systems include reduced bodily lesions due to lower contact with flooring contaminated with faeces and urine, due to slatted flooring and automated faeces removal. This systematic review sought to determine the animal welfare impacts of CCs using slatted flooring, in comparison to litter-based non-cage systems. Overall, 23 relevant studies were retrieved. From one perspective, the extant research appeared mixed. Fifteen (65%) of these 23 studies identified some form of welfare concern about slatted floors, and thus CCs. Yet, when considering actual welfare indicators assessed, the tallies generated in favour of each housing system were similar. Crucially however, there were incomplete behavioural welfare measures in 100% of the empirical studies reviewed. Accordingly, significant welfare concerns exist about CCs, centring around behavioural deprivation. Given that over 70 billion chickens are farmed then slaughtered each year globally, widespread implementation of CCs would create a major animal welfare concern. Instead of implementing such CC systems, research and development is recommended into improving welfare outcomes of conventional litter barns using different forms of commercially feasible enrichment. As a minimum, a full behavioural analysis, as detailed in the Welfare Quality Assessment protocols, should form a mandatory part of any future studies aimed at assessing the welfare impacts of housing systems on farmed chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny L. Mace
- Centre for Animal Welfare, Faculty of Health and Wellbeing, University of Winchester, Sparkford Road, Winchester SO22 4NR, UK
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Huang XF, Xue JJ, Liu ZL, Chen Y, Luo Y, Wang QG, Wang C. Effects of feed trough positioning height on growth performance, feed loss, feeding environment, and behavior of geese. Poult Sci 2022; 101:102179. [PMID: 36215741 PMCID: PMC9554824 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the traditional feeding pattern of geese, the feed trough will be placed on the ground for a long time and hurts the living environment. This research aimed to investigate the effect of 4 different feed trough positioning heights on growth performance, blood parameters, feed loss, water consumption, feeding environment, and behavior of geese and determine the optimal trough positioning height for 28 to 70-d geese. A total of one hundred ninty-two 28-d male Yuzhou white geese were allocated randomly to 4 groups with 6 replicate pens per group according to the trough positioning height (on the ground [D], one-third [L], two-thirds [M], and the same height of geese's beak above the ground [H], respectively). The results show that the growth performance and blood biochemical parameters have no significant difference among groups (P > 0.05). The average daily feed loss and water consumption presented the lowest value in group H (P < 0.01). The hygienic condition index of the feed and feed trough increased as trough positioning height. Feed from group H had a higher cleanliness score than other groups (P < 0.001). The count of microbes (total bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli) on the surface of the feed trough from group H was lower than other groups (P < 0.001). Geese from group H had shorter daily feeding and drinking time than other groups (P < 0.05). Overall, these data indicate the same trough positioning height with geese's beaks could lower feed loss, and water consumption and improve hygienic conditions without damage to growth performance and will be the optimal choice for geese.
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Affiliation(s)
- X F Huang
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - J J Xue
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Z L Liu
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Y Chen
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Y Luo
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Q G Wang
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China; Scientific Observation and Experiment Station of Livestock Equipment Engineering in Southwest, Ministry of Agriculture, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - C Wang
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China; Scientific Observation and Experiment Station of Livestock Equipment Engineering in Southwest, Ministry of Agriculture, Chongqing 402460, China.
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5
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Abdourhamane İM, Petek M. Health-Based Welfare Indicators and Fear Reaction of Slower Growing Broiler Compared to Faster Growing Broiler Housed in Free Range and Conventional Deep Litter Housing Systems. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2022:1-12. [PMID: 35855647 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2022.2100221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the welfare of a slow-growing broiler with a commercially available fast-growing breed housed in a free-range and conventional deep litter housing system. There were four main groups (2 genotypes x 2 housing systems), and each main group consisted of 5 replicates. Ante-mortem and postmortem health-based welfare indicators wıth fear reactıons and distribution of severity of them in 200 male chicks (100 slow growing, 100 fast growing) were investigated. All welfare parameters investigated were found to be significantly different between both broiler genotypes. No significant differences were detected for all broiler welfare parameters between the two housing systems. There were significant genotype x housing system interactions for breast dirtiness and feather cover of the birds (P < 0.001). In conclusion, it can be said that slow-growing broilers express more health-based indicators of positive welfare, and they might be more suitable for free-range broiler meat production. Planning further studies especially in commercial conditions that take into account economic efficiency as well as animal welfare and growth performance would be very beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Metin Petek
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
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6
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Sonnabend SJ, Spieß F, Reckels B, Ahmed MFE, El-Wahab AA, Sürie C, Lingens JB, Visscher C. Influence of Using Perforated Plastic Flooring Beneath the Waterline on Growth Performance, Litter Quality, and Footpad Health of Broiler Chickens: A Field Study. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141749. [PMID: 35883295 PMCID: PMC9311644 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The standard housing method in Europe’s poultry farming is to keep broilers on a littered concrete floor. Therefore, wood shavings are used to catch moisture to prevent wet litter. In particular, the broilers frequently visit the wet area beneath the waterline, where the wet litter causes the main problem in footpad health and animal welfare. The current study tested the impact of slatted flooring beneath the waterline by dividing the barn into three areas (drinkers, feeders, comfort) in terms of growth performance, litter quality, and footpad health of the broilers. The quality of the litter was assessed on the basis of different parameters, for example, dry matter. No effect on growth performance between a littered floor and partially slatted flooring was noted. However, the litter parameters show a small positive impact on the litter quality, especially in the areas of drinkers and comfort, while using partially slatted flooring. Nevertheless, the slatted flooring had an impact on the footpad health of the broilers, with a lower FPD score at the end of the fattening period. Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of slatted flooring beneath waterlines in broiler barns on litter quality and, subsequently, footpad health. The hypothesis tested was that installing slatted flooring underneath waterlines helps to improve litter quality and thus reduces footpad diseases, enhancing animal welfare as a result. Five experimental runs with two groups were conducted. Each run was defined as one fattening period of 32 days and consisted of 15,000 broiler Ross 308 of both sexes. Every barn was divided into three areas (drinkers, feeders, and comfort area) for weekly sampling. No influence on growth performance was noted. The slatted flooring influenced the litter quality by preventing the litter in the experimental group (EG = 690 ± 167 g/kg DM) from becoming moisture until day 14 of the fattening period compared to the control group (CON = 636 ± 198 g/kg DM). The footpad health was also influenced by using slatted flooring, with lower camera-based footpad scores in the EG (8.80) compared to CON (22.0) at the slaughterhouse (p = 0.0258). Installing slatted flooring beneath the waterline reduced the moisture of the litter compared to the control barn in the first two weeks of age and showed a positive effect on the footpad health of the broilers at the end of fattening, which indicates an improvement in animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvan-Justin Sonnabend
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
| | - Fabian Spieß
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
| | - Bernd Reckels
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
| | - Marwa F. E. Ahmed
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
- Department of Hygiene and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Amr Abd El-Wahab
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
- Department of Nutrition and Nutritional Deficiency Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Christian Sürie
- Farm for Education and Research Ruthe, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Schäferberg 1, D-31157 Sarstedt, Germany;
| | - Jan Berend Lingens
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Christian Visscher
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
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Boussaada T, Lakhdari K, Benatallah SA, Meradi S. Effects of common litter types and their physicochemical properties on the welfare of broilers. Vet World 2022; 15:1523-1529. [PMID: 35993071 PMCID: PMC9375223 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.1523-1529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: In broiler production, the poor quality litter not only may lead to a deterioration of the welfare status but also negatively affect carcass quality, overall health and growth performance, which may result in economic losses. The effects of litter types on the welfare of broilers are known but the effects of their characteristics have been little studied. This study aimed to evaluate correlations between welfare parameters of broilers and physicochemical characteristics of five common litter types. Materials and Methods: Over 42 days, 600 (Cobb 700) male broiler chicks were placed within 30 pens (each 2 m2) at a density of 10 birds/m2. The experiment included five treatments with six replicates per treatment. The following litter (or bedding) materials were examined: Standard quality straw, low-quality straw, wood shavings (WS), sawdust, and crop residues. Footpad condition, hock burns, and plumage cleanliness, as well as litter condition, were scored according to previously developed point scale systems. Litter quality was evaluated according to pH level, moisture, water-holding capacity, and ammonia content. Results: No significant differences were found among litter types in terms of pH, moisture content, or ammonia levels. WS had a significant positive effect on footpad health and plumage cleanliness. However, hock burn was not affected by different bedding types. The severity of pododermatitis was negatively correlated with litter type (r = −0.78; p < 0.001) and positively correlated with the litter scores (r = 0.67; p < 0.001). However, contact dermatitis observed (pododermatitis and hock burn) was not correlated with any of the physicochemical parameters we studied. Meanwhile, we observed a correlation between footpad lesions and hock burn (r = 0.45; p < 0.05), and between footpad lesions and plumage cleanliness (r = 0.59; p < 0.01). Conclusion: For all litter types examined, contact dermatitis was not correlated with any of the physicochemical components we studied. There were, however, significant correlations between litter type and footpad lesions, as well as between footpad dermatitis and hock burns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek Boussaada
- Scientific and Technical Research Centre for Arid Areas (CRSTRA), Biskra, Algeria
| | - Kaouthar Lakhdari
- Scientific and Technical Research Centre for Arid Areas (CRSTRA), Biskra, Algeria
| | | | - Samira Meradi
- Scientific and Technical Research Centre for Arid Areas (CRSTRA), Biskra, Algeria
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Topal E, Petek M. Effects of fully or partially slatted flooring designs on the performance, welfare and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. Br Poult Sci 2021; 62:804-809. [PMID: 34042534 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2021.1934399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
1. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of fully (FSF) or partially (PSF) flooring designs on animal-based welfare indicators in a fast-growing broiler genotype. Growth performance and carcass characteristics were assessed.2. One-d-old male chicks were randomly assigned to three groups: fully slatted flooring (100% slatted floor), partially slatted flooring (50% litter floor and 50% slatted floor) and conventional floor pens with litter (control, 100% deep litter) with 5 replicates of 14 male chicks. The litter was rice hull, as is usual in practice.3. Measurements of live body weight, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, mortality and performance index were collected before depopulation at 42 d old. Welfare assessments were done by individual ante- and post-mortem carcass inspection during depopulation and after slaughter.4. Broiler live body weight (P < 0.03) and feed intake (P < 0.003) and ante-mortem welfare indicators (P < 0.001) were positively affected by FSF and PSF compared to the conventional deep litter system. Post-mortem lesion scores on wings and shoulder were similar in all floor types but there were significant differences for the lesions on breast (P < 0.003) and pygostyle (P < 0.05).5. In conclusion, FSF and PSF resulted in higher body weights, while reducing incidence of foot pad and hock joint deformations in live animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Topal
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - M Petek
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
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Adler C, Schmithausen AJ, Trimborn M, Heitmann S, Spindler B, Tiemann I, Kemper N, Büscher W. Effects of a Partially Perforated Flooring System on Ammonia Emissions in Broiler Housing-Conflict of Objectives between Animal Welfare and Environment? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030707. [PMID: 33807897 PMCID: PMC7999410 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Previous studies have shown positive effects of a partially perforated flooring system on animal welfare in broiler housing. Towards the end of the fattening periods, the present study showed a higher ammonia emission rate (NH3 ER) for a partially perforated flooring system compared with a littered control barn. Nevertheless, the measured NH3 concentrations were below 20 ppm, except during a mechanical litter treatment in the winter fattening period. Furthermore, the system offers the possibility of applying practical solutions that were not feasible before. By using underfloor air extraction, manure belts, or acidification systems underneath the elevated perforated area, NH3 concentrations and the resulting NH3 ER could be reduced. Thus, with some optimization, the partially perforated flooring system could be used to contribute to an increase in animal welfare and environmental protection at the same time. Abstract A partially (50%) perforated flooring system showed positive effects on health- and behavior-based welfare indicators without affecting production performance. Ammonia (NH3) is the most common air pollutant in poultry production, with effects on animal welfare and the environment. The objectives of animal welfare and environmental protection are often incompatible. Therefore, this study addresses the question of how a partially perforated flooring system affects NH3 emissions. According to German regulations, three fattening periods were carried out with 500 Ross 308 broilers per barn (final stocking density: 39 kg m−2). The experimental barn was equipped with an elevated perforated area in the supply section, accessible by perforated ramps. The remaining area in the experimental barn and the control barn were equipped with wood shavings (600 g m−2). Besides the different floor types, management was identical. Air temperature (Temp), relative air humidity (RH), NH3 concentration, and ventilation rate (VR) were measured continuously. Furthermore, dry matter (DM) content, pH, and litter quality were assessed. Towards the end of the fattening periods, the NH3 emission rate (ER) of the partially perforated flooring system was higher compared with that of the littered control barn (all p < 0.001). This effect is mainly caused by the higher NH3 concentrations, which are promoted by the lack of compaction underneath the elevated perforated area and the increase in pH value under aerobic conditions. Nevertheless, the partially perforated flooring system offers different approaches for NH3 reduction that were previously not feasible, potentially contributing equally to animal welfare and environmental protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Adler
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (M.T.); (I.T.); (W.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Manfred Trimborn
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (M.T.); (I.T.); (W.B.)
| | - Sophia Heitmann
- Institute of Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (S.H.); (B.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Birgit Spindler
- Institute of Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (S.H.); (B.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Inga Tiemann
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (M.T.); (I.T.); (W.B.)
- Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Nicole Kemper
- Institute of Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (S.H.); (B.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Wolfgang Büscher
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (M.T.); (I.T.); (W.B.)
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Meuser V, Weinhold L, Hillemacher S, Tiemann I. Welfare-Related Behaviors in Chickens: Characterization of Fear and Exploration in Local and Commercial Chicken Strains. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:679. [PMID: 33806293 PMCID: PMC7998364 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Fear and exploration are crucial traits determining how animals behave in novel situations, and thus, they influence animal welfare. The aim of this study was the characterization of these behavioral traits among different strains to identify interesting alternatives for future poultry production. Whereas the Novel Object Test (NOT) focuses on fear and exploration of novel objects, the Avoidance Distance Test (ADT) addresses this in the context of humans. Here, a commercial hybrid line, a dual-purpose hybrid and a local adapted strain were tested. For the differences between strains and development of fear, Lohmann Brown (n = 714), Lohmann Dual (n = 844) and Rhinelander (n = 458) were observed weekly until maturity. Results show that fear and exploration towards unknown objects and humans are breed-specific (all p < 0.01). Additionally, development of fear in NOT and ADT differed between all three strains (both p < 0.01). The expressions of fear of humans or objects should be regarded as characteristics adapted for different husbandry systems and breeding goals, e.g., high exploratory behavior in aviary or high avoidance of predators in free-ranging husbandry or at least a balanced ratio between fear and exploration. Characterization of behavioral traits among different strains, understanding diversity and integrating these behaviors into future breeding and husbandry systems might reflect the need to preserve local strains and the potential to improve animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Meuser
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural Faculty, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (S.H.); (I.T.)
| | - Leonie Weinhold
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Sonja Hillemacher
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural Faculty, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (S.H.); (I.T.)
| | - Inga Tiemann
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural Faculty, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (S.H.); (I.T.)
- Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Faculty, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
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Abd El-Wahab A, Kriewitz JP, Hankel J, Chuppava B, Ratert C, Taube V, Visscher C, Kamphues J. The Effects of Feed Particle Size and Floor Type on the Growth Performance, GIT Development, and Pododermatitis in Broiler Chickens. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10081256. [PMID: 32722079 PMCID: PMC7460035 DOI: 10.3390/ani10081256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of feed particle size and flooring designs on organ traits, performance and pododermatitis in broilers. A total of 480 broilers (Ross 308) of both sexes were randomly assigned to two feeding groups (finely or coarsely ground pelleted diets; with addition of 5% to 10% intact wheat in coarsely diets) and four different housing systems (litter; litter with floor heating; partially or fully slatted floor) with three subgroups each. A coarse diet increased the final gizzard and pancreas weights (p < 0.001) while decreasing the risk of Isthmus gastrici dilatation compared to a fine diet (p < 0.001). Broilers fed a coarse diet displayed an increased final body weight (p = 0.023) and led to a favourable feed conversion ratio. Final body weight was the highest (p < 0.001) for birds housed on partially or fully slatted floor. Housing birds on litter with floor heating showed the lowest pododermatitis scoring (p < 0.001). It seems to be favourable to use coarse diets for organ development, whereas slatted floors seem to foster enlargement of the Isthmus gastrici. Increasing growth performance was possible both when using coarse diets or slatted floors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amr Abd El-Wahab
- Department of Nutrition and Nutritional Deficiency Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt;
| | - Jan-Philip Kriewitz
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hanover, Germany; (J.-P.K.); (J.H.); (B.C.); (C.R.); (J.K.)
| | - Julia Hankel
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hanover, Germany; (J.-P.K.); (J.H.); (B.C.); (C.R.); (J.K.)
| | - Bussarakam Chuppava
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hanover, Germany; (J.-P.K.); (J.H.); (B.C.); (C.R.); (J.K.)
| | - Christine Ratert
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hanover, Germany; (J.-P.K.); (J.H.); (B.C.); (C.R.); (J.K.)
| | - Venja Taube
- BEST 3 Geflügelernährung GmbH, D-27239 Twistringen, Germany;
| | - Christian Visscher
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hanover, Germany; (J.-P.K.); (J.H.); (B.C.); (C.R.); (J.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-511-856-7508
| | - Josef Kamphues
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hanover, Germany; (J.-P.K.); (J.H.); (B.C.); (C.R.); (J.K.)
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12
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Abdel-Hamid SE, Saleem ASY, Youssef MI, Mohammed HH, Abdelaty AI. Influence of housing systems on duck behavior and welfare. J Adv Vet Anim Res 2020; 7:407-413. [PMID: 33005665 PMCID: PMC7521810 DOI: 10.5455/javar.2020.g435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This experiment was conducted to assess the effects of the housing system on the welfare and growth performance of the Muscovy duck. Materials and methods: A total number of 48 Muscovy duck aged 3-week old were divided randomly into two groups (24 duck on each): deep litter system and cage system. Each group was subdivided into three replicates (8 birds on each) were identified with wing rings. Results: The study showed that feeding and drinking behaviors significantly increased (p < 0.05) in duck reared at the cage system. While there was no noticeable effect on lying and feather pecking, duck raised in the deep litter had better growth performance with a substantial difference, which achieve a higher feed conversion rate with lower feed efficiency. Physical conditions were significantly better at cage management. The level of stress indicating hormones indicating free Thyroxin was increased with the cage. Therefore, the litter system improves duck welfare and their performance. Conclusion: It is concluded that the duck managed under the litter system has more opportunities that facilitate the expression of more natural behavior, and thus improve their health and performance, as a result of improved feed conversion rate and feed efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shereen El Abdel-Hamid
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Al-Sadik Y Saleem
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Mohamed I Youssef
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Hesham H Mohammed
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Asmaa I Abdelaty
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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13
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Adler C, Tiemann I, Hillemacher S, Schmithausen AJ, Müller U, Heitmann S, Spindler B, Kemper N, Büscher W. Effects of a partially perforated flooring system on animal-based welfare indicators in broiler housing. Poult Sci 2020; 99:3343-3354. [PMID: 32616228 PMCID: PMC7597817 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Alternative flooring designs in broiler housing have been the subject of intensive research. Research comparing different floor types with a focus on animal-based welfare indicators might be of special interest to meet the animal's needs. This case-control study investigated the effect of a partially perforated vs. a littered flooring system on health- and behavior-based welfare indicators of fast-growing Ross 308 broilers. Furthermore, production performance was assessed. The experimental barn was partially (50%) equipped with a perforated floor directly underneath the feeders and water lines accessible by perforated ramps. Conventional wood shavings were used in the control barn, as usual in practice. There were 4 fattening periods (repetitions) of 31 to 32 D performed with 500 animals per barn (final density of 39 kg m-2). Beside the flooring system, management conditions were identical. Health- and behavior-based welfare indicators were assessed weekly. Production performance indicators were measured continuously during animal control. During the avoidance distance test, animals were less fearful on day 21 (P = 0.010) and tended to be less fearful on day 28 (P = 0.083) in the barn with the partially perforated flooring system compared to the littered control barn. More animals around the novel object were also assessed in the barn with the partially perforated flooring system during the novel object test on day 1 (P < 0.001) and a tendency was found on day 28 (P = 0.064). Results showed that the partially perforated flooring system had a positive influence on foot pad dermatitis from day 14 (all P ≤ 0.007) and hock burn on day 28 (P < 0.001). With regard to the production performance, animals showed no differences in final body weight for both floor types. In this study, the partially perforated flooring system had a positive effect on animal health and behavior as indicated by welfare indicators without a reduction in production performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Adler
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany.
| | - I Tiemann
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; Institute of Animal Science, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - S Hillemacher
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany; Institute of Animal Science, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | | | - U Müller
- Institute of Animal Science, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - S Heitmann
- Institute of Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - B Spindler
- Institute of Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - N Kemper
- Institute of Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - W Büscher
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
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Effects of a slatted floor on bacteria and physical parameters in litter in broiler houses. Vet Anim Sci 2020; 9:100115. [PMID: 32734116 PMCID: PMC7386717 DOI: 10.1016/j.vas.2020.100115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, a new housing system for broiler was tested. This system consisted of a slatted floor area and a littered area with the aim of improving litter quality. Two experimental broiler houses were provided. In house 1, a slatted floor was installed below the drinker and feedlines. Littered areas flanked the slatted floor. Broiler house 2 reflected conditions in commercial systems, consisting of a full littered area. Litter samples were taken at day 11 and at day 32 of the fattening period. Manure samples were taken at day 32. The total bacteria count (TBC), coliforms, Escherichia coli (E. coli) and ESBL-producing bacteria were determined. Furthermore, physical parameters (dry matter, water activity, pH) of litter and manure were measured. For statistical analyzes, a generalized linear mixed model (GLIMMIX procedure) was calculated. The floor did not show any significant effect on the bacteria content of the litter. Regarding TBC in litter, the floor showed a tendency for an effect (F = 5.42, p<0.1) with lower contents in house 1. Regarding the manure under the slatted floor, a tendency for a difference between house 1 and house 2 was found for the content of E. coli (F = 5.55, p<0.1) with higher contents in house 1. The floor did not show any significant effect on the physical parameters of litter and manure. The results of this experimental study showed no positive effects on the selected litter parameters, but further studies, especially on-farm experiments are necessary to confirm these results.
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Abo Ghanima MM, Abd El-Hack ME, Othman SI, Taha AE, Allam AA, Eid Abdel-Moneim AM. Impact of different rearing systems on growth, carcass traits, oxidative stress biomarkers, and humoral immunity of broilers exposed to heat stress. Poult Sci 2020; 99:3070-3078. [PMID: 32475443 PMCID: PMC7597735 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 12/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of different rearing systems (RS) including cage rearing systems (CRS), litter rearing systems (LRS), and perforated plastic slate rearing systems (PSRS) on the productive performance, carcass traits, blood hematological and biochemical parameters, and humoral immunity in broiler chickens exposed to heat stress were investigated. A total of 270 1-day-old Avian 48 chicks were randomly assigned to 3 groups equally, each was divided into 9 replicates (each of 10 birds) housed in studied RS. Results revealed that CRS had higher (P < 0.001) body weight and weight gain at all experimental periods (except in the sixth wk for weight gain) followed by LRS. Birds housed in PSRS consumed lower (P < 0.001) feed than those in CRS (during the fourth to sixth and overall periods) and LRS (during all experimental periods except the second one). Best values of feed conversion ratio and European broiler index were shown in CR birds. All carcass traits were not altered by different RS except the percentages of dressing, liver, breast, and left filet, which were elevated (P < 0.05) in caged birds. Eosinophil, lymphocyte, basophil, and monocyte counts and phagocytic index and activity were reduced (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01) in LRS. Humoral immune response against the Newcastle disease virus and avian influenza were not differed. Birds in LRS showed higher (P < 0.05) serum cholesterol, uric acid, and lactate dehydrogenase as well as liver and muscle cholesterol contents. Lipid peroxidation was reduced (P < 0.05) in the LRS and PSRS groups, whereas superoxide dismutase was elevated (P < 0.05) in CRS and LRS. Thus, CRS and LRS were preferred for better growth performance and carcass traits of heat-stressed broilers, whereas CRS and PSRS were better in reducing tissue cholesterol under the conditions of our study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud M Abo Ghanima
- Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed E Abd El-Hack
- Department of Poultry, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511, Egypt.
| | - Sarah I Othman
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayman E Taha
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Rasheed, Edfina 22758, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A Allam
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-suef University, Beni-suef, 65211 Egypt
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16
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Improved Energy Management in an Intermittently Heated Building Using a Large Broiler House in Central Europe as an Example. ENERGIES 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/en13061371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This paper deals with the problem of rational energy management in an intermittently heated broiler house. The aim was to evaluate the energy amount necessary to heat up the building floor for the production cycle, preceded by a technological interruption of varying length. The scope of studies included the indoor and outdoor air temperature measurements and the soil temperature measurements under the building floor. The results of field tests allowed computer simulations to be carried out in the WUFIplussoftware (Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics, Holzkirchen Branch, Germany). The variant analysis was preceded by the validation of the calculation model whose results showed a strong correlation of theoretical data with actual results. The winter breeding cycle was analyzed in detail. The detailed soil and air temperature curves are presented graphically. The results allow a conclusion that the length of the technological interruption has a significant impact on the amount of energy in the first days of the broiler breeding. The extension of the technological interruption by seven days increases the amount of heating energy in the first day of the cycle by 24%. The extension of the technological interruption causes also the need for a longer floor heating in the first day of the cycle.
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17
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Comparison of Chinese Broiler Production Systems in Economic Performance and Animal Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10030491. [PMID: 32183491 PMCID: PMC7142404 DOI: 10.3390/ani10030491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary There are three main rearing systems for white-feathered broilers in China. They are the net floor system (NFS), the normal cage system (NCS), and the high standard cage system (HCS). This study compared the relationship between economic benefit and animal welfare between these systems. The high economic input, high output, and high profit in these three different rearing systems. The welfare scores were 778.24 ± 29.45, 691.09 ± 32.97, and 669.82 ± 22.79, respectively. As white-feathered broiler production in China has developed, from the conventional system to the latest system, both cost and economic profit have increased while the welfare score has decreased. This study explains why the level of animal welfare in China’s white-feathered broiler production is not high at present, and why breeders do not wish to improve the level of animal welfare production. Abstract Both proper animal welfare and economic benefit are important to the broiler industry, so it is better to consider these two factors together. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between economic benefit and animal welfare in different production systems of white-feathered broilers in China. Based on the Welfare Quality Assessment (WQA) protocol for poultry, the authors compared and evaluated the results of the Welfare Quality model (WQM) and the deterministic model. The present study conducted welfare evaluations and investigations on 66 broiler chicken flocks on 52 farms in China. These flocks included three types: the net floor system (NFS), the normal cage system (NCS), and the high standard cage system (HCS). In terms of economy, the results were in line with high economic input, high output, and high profit. In terms of animal welfare assessment, the authors calculated the welfare scores per measure and the attributional WQ scores and WQ index scores of each production systems. The results showed that nine welfare measures from four welfare criteria presented different trends in the three production systems. WQ index scores were 778.24 ± 29.45, 691.09 ± 32.97, and 669.82 ± 22.79, respectively. According to Chow test results, significant differences were found between WQ index scores and total cost and profit (all p < 0.01). In conclusion, with the development of white-feathered broiler production in China, from the conventional system to the latest system, both cost and economic profit have been increased, but the welfare score has been decreased.
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Çavuşoğlu E, Petek M. Effects of different floor materials on the welfare and behaviour of slow- and fast-growing broilers. Arch Anim Breed 2019; 62:335-344. [PMID: 31807644 PMCID: PMC6852873 DOI: 10.5194/aab-62-335-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Litter quality and fast growth rate are the two main issues in broiler welfare. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of genotype and floor material on broiler welfare and behaviour. In the study, slow-growing (Hubbard JA57) and fast-growing (Ross 308) broilers on a slatted floor and deep litter were used; there were four main groups (2 genotype × 2 housing) and each treatment group consisted of 5 replicates. Each replicate group consisted of 10 male chicks, and 200 birds were used in total. The experiment lasted for 8 weeks. The welfare parameters were recorded in weeks 6, 7, and 8, whereas behaviour data were collected in week 8 only. Results showed that welfare parameters of broiler chickens were affected by genotype and floor type. Slow-growing broilers had better welfare parameters than fast-growing broilers. The slatted floor had a positive effect on main welfare parameters of the birds. Slower-growing broilers had a longer distance in the avoidance distance test. Tonic immobility reaction was longer in slow-growing broilers compared to fast-growing broiler. On the other hand, floor type did not affect behaviour parameters. As a conclusion, slow-growing broilers had better welfare parameters than fast-growing broilers and slat flooring could be beneficial to improve broiler welfare, but further behavioural investigations are needed such as dust bathing and walking behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enver Çavuşoğlu
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Metin Petek
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
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19
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Wang WC, Yan FF, Hu JY, Amen OA, Cheng HW. Supplementation of Bacillus subtilis-based probiotic reduces heat stress-related behaviors and inflammatory response in broiler chickens. J Anim Sci 2018. [PMID: 29528406 DOI: 10.1093/jas/sky092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Probiotics reduce stress-related inflammation and abnormal behaviors in humans and rodents via regulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis. The objective of this study was to determine if probiotic, Bacillus subtilis, has similar functions in broiler chickens under heat stress (HS). Two hundred forty 1-d-old broiler chicks were assigned to 48 pens with 4 treatments: Thermoneutral (TN)-RD (regular diet), TN-PD (the regular diet mixed with 1 × 106 CFU/g feed probiotic), HS-RD and HS-PD. Probiotic (Sporulin) was fed from day 1; and HS at 32°C for 10 h daily was initiated at day 15. The data showed that final BW, average daily gain , and feed conversion efficiency were improved in PD groups as compared to RD groups regardless of the ambient temperature (P < 0.01). Heterophil to lymphocyte ratio was affected by treatment and its value was in the order of HS-RD > HS-PD > TN-RD > TN-PD birds (P < 0.01). Compared to TN birds, HS birds spent more time in wing spreading, panting, squatting close to the ground, drinking, sleeping, dozing, and sitting but spent less time in eating, standing, and walking (P < 0.05 or 0.01). In addition, HS birds had greater levels of hepatic IL-6, IL-10, heat shock protein (HSP)70, and HSP70 mRNA expression (P < 0.01) and greater levels of cecal IgA and IgY (P < 0.01) compared to TN birds. Within TN groups, TN-PD birds had greater concentrations of hepatic IL-10 (P < 0.05) and cecal IgA (P < 0.01) than TN-RD birds. Within HS groups, HS-PD birds spent less time in wing spreading, panting, squatting close to the ground, drinking, sleeping, dozing, and sitting but spent more time in eating, foraging, standing, and walking than HS-RD birds (P < 0.05 or 0.01). The HS-PD birds also had lower concentrations of hepatic IL-6 and HSP70 (P < 0.01), whereas greater levels of IL-10 (P < 0.05) and lower concentrations of cecal IgA and IgY (P < 0.01). These results indicate that broilers fed the probiotic, B. subtilis, are able to cope with HS more effectively by ameliorating heat-induced behavioral and inflammatory reactions through regulation of microbiota-modulated immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- W C Wang
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
| | - F F Yan
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
| | - J Y Hu
- USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Livestock Behavior Research Unit, West Lafayette, IN
| | - O A Amen
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assuit University, Egypt
| | - H W Cheng
- USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Livestock Behavior Research Unit, West Lafayette, IN
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20
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Almeida EA, Sant'Anna AC, Crowe TG, Macari M, Furlan RL. Poultry rearing on perforated plastic floors and the effect on air quality, growth performance, and carcass injuries - Experiment 2: Heat stress situation. Poult Sci 2018. [PMID: 29534209 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pey048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, we reported the effect of rearing conditions (plastic floors and air quality) on carcass injury development of broiler chickens at thermal comfort. In this study, the same rearing conditions were tested at thermal stress. The birds were reared in 2 climatic chambers, and the experiment followed a completely randomized design with one factor, flooring material: wood shaving or perforated plastic. The birds were divided into 16 experimental pens, being 8 females and 8 males. The studied parameters were the same as the previous study (ammonia concentration, carbon dioxide, performance, carcass yield, and variability, and scores of hygiene, gait and chest, and hocks and footpad lesions). Higher ammonia (15 ppm vs. 4 ppm) and carbon dioxide (1,000 ppm vs. 850 ppm) concentration was seen at d 42 for the wood shavings floor as compared to the perforated plastic floor, respectively. Regarding gender, males had better performance than females at 42 d of age on both floor types. Males reared on wood shavings showed a higher meat production (29.049 kg/m2) than females (24.700 kg/m2). There were observed breast lesion incidences of 10.4% (score 1) in males reared on the plastic floor, as well higher incidence of hock injury and footpad dermatitis. Chickens reared on plastic flooring showed better hygiene than chickens reared on wood shavings. Our findings revealed that the use of perforated plastic flooring in a heat stress situation can improve the air quality (less CO2 and NH3 concentration) and bird cleanliness. On the other hand, chickens are more susceptible to develop lesions in the breast, hock, and footpad. We conclude that the use of plastic flooring in heat stress conditions needs more attention, since chickens are more susceptible to develop lesions on the carcass, being a source of pain, impairing bird wellbeing and causing losses in meat production.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Almeida
- Department of Morphology and Animal Physiology, São Paulo State University, 14884-900 - Jaboticabal-SP
| | - A C Sant'Anna
- Biological Sciences Institute - Federal University of Juiz de Fora, 36036-900 - Juiz de Fora-MG - Brazil
| | - T G Crowe
- College of Engineering - University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon - Canada
| | - M Macari
- Department of Morphology and Animal Physiology, São Paulo State University, 14884-900 - Jaboticabal-SP
| | - R L Furlan
- Department of Morphology and Animal Physiology, São Paulo State University, 14884-900 - Jaboticabal-SP
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Chuppava B, Visscher C, Kamphues J. Effect of Different Flooring Designs on the Performance and Foot Pad Health in Broilers and Turkeys. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8050070. [PMID: 29751573 PMCID: PMC5981281 DOI: 10.3390/ani8050070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 04/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The contact of the birds’ feet with litter and their excreta during the fattening period might lead to reduced body weight, carcass weight, feed intake, and impaired foot pad health in poultry. This study was performed to evaluate the influence of different flooring designs with reduced (50% or 100% slatted floors) contact to the excreta on the above-mentioned parameters in the fattening of broilers and turkeys. The provision of litter on the floor had no relevant effect on foot pad health in broilers. Using fully-slatted flooring in fattening turkeys led to a higher body weight, while reducing incidence of injuries of foot pads. It is, therefore, necessary to consider how a similar excellent litter quality can be achieved in basically littered husbandry systems common in Europe. Abstract Litter quality has a significant influence on the performance and foot pad health in poultry. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different types of flooring designs on the performance and foot pad health in fattening broilers and turkeys. Three trials were conducted for each species using a total of 720 Ross 308 broilers and 720 Big 6 turkeys. After day seven, animals were randomly assigned to four groups with three subgroups each: G1—floor pens with litter, G2—floor pens with litter and floor heating, G3—partially-slatted flooring, including a littered area, and G4—fully-slatted flooring with a sand bath (900 cm2). Animals of both species had a significantly higher final body weight at dissection (day 36) after being reared on fully-slatted floors compared to common littered floors. In turkeys, the feed conversion ratio was worse in G4 (1.53 ± 0.04) than in G1 (1.47 ± 0.02) and G2 (1.48 ± 0.03). Water to feed ratio was significantly higher in G2 than other groups. Turkeys’ foot pad health was significantly better in G4 than in other groups beginning at day 21. In turkeys, platforms with slatted floors that allow for temporary separation of the feet from the litter could lead to improvements in foot pad health which could better enable the realization of species-specific behaviours and activities in littered areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bussarakam Chuppava
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hanover, Germany.
| | - Christian Visscher
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hanover, Germany.
| | - Josef Kamphues
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hanover, Germany.
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Çavuşoğlu E, Petek M, Abdourhamane İM, Akkoc A, Topal E. Effects of different floor housing systems on the welfare of fast-growing broilers with an extended fattening period. Arch Anim Breed 2018. [DOI: 10.5194/aab-61-9-2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract. This study was made to investigate the long-term effects of
different floor housing systems on the welfare of fast-growing
broilers. The experiment was performed on 210-day-old fast-growing
hybrid male chickens with identical conditions until 47 days of
age. Animal-based welfare parameters were measured to investigate
the welfare level in the group housed on deep litter, a litter and slat
system, and a slatted floor, with five replicates for each group. Results showed that the main welfare indicators in live birds, such breast dirtiness,
plumage score, footpad lesion, and hock burn lesion, were negatively
affected in broilers kept on conventional deep-litter floor
housing. But hemorrhage or lesion scores of the breast and shoulder of
broilers in slat floor housing were found to be significantly greater than
in conventional deep litter as a result of a heavy body weight at a greater slaughter age (p<0.05). Pathologically, the prevalence of footpad and hock joint dermatitis was very high in the deep-litter housing
system. Femoral head necrosis was not observed in any floor
housing group. The results indicated that keeping broilers on a slat
flooring system is preferable for younger slaughter ages and for a lighter slaughter weight. When considering the relationship between
animal welfare and production economy, moving from one floor house
system to another floor housing system should be carefully weighted
in future decisions. Moreover, further investigations are needed in
order to examine the incidence of joint and bone problems with
muscle inflammation in heavier broilers in commercial conditions.
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Sa RN, Xing H, Luan SJ, Sun YB, Sun CY, Zhang HF. Atmospheric ammonia alters lipid metabolism-related genes in the livers of broilers (Gallus gallus). J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2017; 102:e941-e947. [PMID: 29285805 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Atmospheric ammonia in animal housing is reported to have adverse effects on livestock performance and animal health. Previous experiments have found that 75 ppm ammonia reduced the production performance and altered body fat distribution quality of broilers. In this study, we examined the body fat distribution, serum metabolites and lipid metabolism gene expression of broiler exposed to ammonia. A total of 400 chickens were randomly allocated to four groups with four replicates and received ammonia treatments at 0, 25, 50 and 75 ppm, respectively, for 3 weeks. The average daily feed intake and weight gain were decreased when broiler was exposed to ammonia concentration exceeding 50 ppm (p < .05). The increased abdominal fat and reduced thickness of subcutaneous adipose were found in broilers of 75 ppm group (p < .05). When ammonia exceeded 50 ppm, the content of fat in breast muscle of broiler was increased, and when ammonia was higher than 25 ppm, the fat in liver was increased (p < .05). It showed that the fat content in liver was a sensitive index for broilers exposed to ammonia. Furthermore, ammonia exposure had no significant effect on total cholesterol and triglyceride in serum, but significantly increased the relative mRNA expression of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (p = .046) and malic enzyme in liver (p = .038), which indicated that ammonia exposure may increase the de novo fat synthesis in liver. In addition, ammonia increased the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = .02) and activity of hepatic lipase in serum (p < .001), which indicated that ammonia exposure may improve the transportation of cholesterol to liver. To conclude, our results indicated that ammonia exposure might increase the de novo fat synthesis in liver and increased the transportation of cholesterol to liver. In addition, the concentration of ammonia in poultry house should be limited lower than 25 ppm based on the variation of hepatic fat content.
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Affiliation(s)
- R N Sa
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - H Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - S J Luan
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Y B Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - C Y Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - H F Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
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