Which is the best alternative for ascites syndrome prevention in broiler chickens? Effect of feed form and rearing temperature conditions

• Main Authors: Alireza Hasani, Mehrdad Bouyeh, Mliheh Rahati, Alireza Seidavi, Peter Makovicky, Vito Laudadio, Vincenzo Tufarelli
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2018-01-01
• Series: Journal of Applied Animal Research
• Subjects: Ascites syndrome; diet form; rearing temperature; broiler
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09712119.2017.1309320

Ascites syndrome (AS) is a metabolic disorder in fast-growing broilers that is characterized by non-tumult fluid collection in the abdomen. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of variable feeding and rearing temperature on AS occurrence in broilers. A total of 360 one-day-old male Ross-308 chicks were assigned to three equal groups (n = 120) fed pellet, crumble or mash diets and within each group, half of birds (n = 60, starting from the 22nd day of age) were reared under two different temperatures: at 23°C (comfort) or at 14°C (cold), respectively. There were six treatments and four replicates including 15 broilers per replicate per treatment. Birds’ growth performances and blood parameters as well the incidence of ascites were assessed. The haematocrit percentage, T3 and T4 hormones activity in pellet-fed group under cold temperature conditions were significantly higher (P < .05) than the other groups. Based on the results, the occurrence of AS under mash-fed regime was less than pellet and crumble dietary groups (P > .05). Further, feeding of mash diet reduced broilers’ feed consumption per unit of time, especially by level of achieving energy that is reducing the growth and AS.