Layer specialist: Hens bred for cage-free housing must be ‘top athletes’
The move to cage-free egg production in the US and Europe created a seismic change in hen breeding programs.
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The move to cage-free egg production in the US and Europe created a seismic change in hen breeding programs.
By Alexander W. Strauch, DVM
Four Star Veterinary Service, LLC
Minton Veterinary Service Office
Chickasaw, Ohio
Histomoniasis is nothing new to turkey producers, yet treatment options remain a major challenge. Bans of therapeutic and prophylactic compounds in several countries in recent years have only added to outbreak risks, emphasizing the need for alternative control strategies.
The ability to process birds on farms and eliminate live transport offers some compelling benefits to the poultry industry whose customers are increasingly disconnected from animal agriculture.
Nutritionists know there is often an “ideal level” when dosing feed enzymes. The challenge is determining this level in the feed matrix for optimal response and measurable economic benefits.
By Daniel Wilson, DVM
Wilson Veterinary Company
Indianapolis, Indiana
Coccidiosis is one of the most frustrating diseases encountered by poultry producers. This is especially so in long-lived birds like layers.
Postbiotics might be a relatively new term in the field of animal feed and microbiology, but they could play a significant role in improving the gut health, immune systems and overall well-being of commercial poultry flocks.
Phytases traditionally have been used to increase available dietary phosphorus in poultry and other animal diets, but a growing body of evidence is showing that their effects can be much broader.
Damaging behaviors in poultry include feather pecking, vent pecking, and toe pecking. While feather and vent pecking are well-known welfare problems in poultry that have received significant attention from researchers and farmers, toe pecking remains relatively unknown.
Biosecurity is the cheapest, most effective means of disease prevention and control available. Proper biosecurity will help to ensure the overall health and welfare of your flock.
Currently, 34% of laying hens used for commercial egg production in the United States are housed in cage-free environments. This number will nearly double to 66% by 2026 by to meet retailer demands and state legislation requirements. How do we prepare for this increase?
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