Quality, height, pressure, mineral content and accessibilityĬleanliness of drinker lines/regulators prior to flock placement and during productionįlushing water lines between flocks and during productionĮlimination of biofilms and mineral buildupĭrinker equipment maintenance 8. An abundance of clean water will reduce challenges and maximize performance.įactors to consider when thinking about water management include: As a result, water is the most critical nutrient for poultry. Poultry will generally consume more water than feed. Water managementĭrinking water accounts for 70–80 percent of the bird’s daily drinking needs. Too much dusty material may lead to respiratory problems.
Litter that is too dry and dusty can be one of many indications that the birds may not be drinking enough. Some factors to consider which may help prevent the development of wet litter: type of material, quality of litter, litter depth, water quality, drinker line management, lighting management, ventilation and temperature. It is much easier to prevent and manage litter moisture conditions before they start. As wet litter problems increase, ammonia levels in the barn rise, which can be potentially detrimental to bird health. Without proper management, even in patches, wet litter can serve as a breeding ground for potential pathogens and may be a starting point for intestinal stress that develops and leads to disease. Wet litter presents a vicious cycle for intestinal health. Litter condition and quality have an impact on broiler intestinal health and profitability, starting from when the chicks are placed all the way through production. In addition to standing and resting on the bedding, birds will naturally peck at the litter. The litter in a poultry house acts as bedding for the birds. The brooding period is an important time for intestinal growth and the development of a balanced microflora. As a result, ensuring a good start in poultry production can have a significant impact on the future health and performance of the birds.
With today’s improved genetic capabilities and the fast growth of birds, more time is being spent during the critical brooding phase. Maintaining intestinal integrity during this time through innovative technologies provided in the Alltech ® Gut Health Management program is critical in allowing birds to perform to their maximum levels despite gut health challenges. This parasite can have an impact on intestinal integrity and may predispose birds to other intestinal problems. Coccidiosis preventionĬoccidiosis is a disease caused by a microscopic intestinal parasite. Pre-placement preparation is needed before the new flock arrives to help prevent losses during brooding and the rest of grow out.Ĭheckpoints to keep in mind: heaters, floor temperature, temperature and relative humidity probes, ventilation, drinkers, feeders, etc. Downtime between flocksĪdequate downtime of at least 14 days with appropriate cleaning and disinfection measures between flock placements helps to reduce transmission of disease between flocks and allows time to prepare for the next flock. Well-defined biosecurity practices throughout broiler production (pre-, during and post-placement) are crucial to successful poultry production.Įffective biosecurity can aid hygiene, vermin and insect control on-farm and help to limit disease transmission within and between barns. Some critical focus areas are as follows: 1. FLAWS actually serves as a detailed approach to best management practices, not only during brooding but throughout the life of the flock. The acronym “FLAWS” has commonly served as a reminder to check feed, light, litter, air, water, (bio)security, sanitation, space and staff. A combination of quality nutrition, veterinary guidance, and increased consideration of barn and bird management will help to ensure birds have the best possible chance to perform at their maximum potential. Achieving good bird, barn and gut health requires operational excellence and attention to detail.