Traditional cages for layers vs. enriched cages or slat floor

In 15 layers farms, ten with traditional cages (690737), four with enriched cages (688929 hens) and one with slat floor (14498 hens), egg production, number of weight of eggs, FCR and mortality were registered during a whole production cycle (from 18 to 56 wk of age). Hybrid line, origin of pullets, enviromental and hygienic conditions, light programs, and diet were the same in all farms. On the average, the comparison between traditional and enriched cages shows that there were not significant differences on productive performance with number and weight of eggs, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio. The mortality was significantly lower in hens housed in enriched cages in comparison to those reared in traditional cages, showing a higer level of welfare in animals housed in enriched cages. Preliminary results registered on laying hens housed on slat floor seem to reduce productive performace, even if the lower number of defective eggs could be a positive aspect of this housing system.