Effects of a partially perforated flooring system on animal-based welfare indicators in broiler housing.

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 p

SUBMITTER: Adler C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7597817 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature