HEAL ▶▶▶TH


Understanding the dynamics of cage-free housing


BY SHEILENA DURBIN, DVM, DIAMOND V W


hen you move a bird that was primarily in cage systems to cage-free or outdoor access, they’re going to have more access to litter which can lead to a greater probability of is-


sues such as coccidiosis. Coccidia are intracellular protozoan parasites that multiply in the intestinal tract leading to tissue damage. This damage can result in decreased nutrient ab- sorption, dehydration, blood loss and increased susceptibility to other diseases, such as necrotic enteritis. In a system where the birds have increased access to the litter and faecal materi- al contaminated with coccidia, developing immunity to coc- cidiosis is even more vital compared with birds that would


With the transition to more cage-free and outdoor access systems, there are certain challenges that need to be kept in mind when determining layer health and welfare plans. Moving forward, it’s essential to understand and continue to learn more about how best to manage and care for birds in these housing systems.


enter a caged system later in life. In terms of vaccination, ap- propriate cycling of vaccinal oocysts is important and de- pends on factors such as vaccine coverage and litter moisture. Respiratory problems may also increase. These issues are due


Cage-free chal- lenges include feather pecking, a problem that can be mitigated by using red lighting.


▶ POULTRY WORLD | No. 8, 2021 25


PHOTO: RONALD HISSINK


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44