Feed additives and enrichment materials to reduce chicken stress, maximize productivity, and improve welfare

Abstract

Environmental stress poses serious threats to animal welfare and production, particularly in poultry, which are susceptible to such stress. It can increase susceptibility to diseases and infections, reduce growth rates and reproductive performance, and increase behavioral issues. Environmental stress caused by conventional housing conditions can negatively affect well-being and productivity. High temperature, overcrowding, poor ventilation, insufficient lighting, and wire cages are some of the most prominent stressors in conventional housing systems. To address environmental stress in chicken farms, some strategies and tools, such as using anti-stress feed additives and enriching cages, can help improve bird behavioral activities and welfare. Breeders can improve overall bird performance by implementing these strategies and creating a more enriched and comfortable environment. Thus, this review discusses the importance of using different feed additives and environmental enrichment materials to reduce stress in chicken farms (broiler and layer) and improve bird productivity and well-being. Keywords: antioxidants, behavior, environmental enrichment, gut health, product quality, stress, welfare.