The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different feed restriction regimens on performance, behavioral patterns,
blood cortisol, and carcass parameters in Sasso broilers. Sixty healthy 1-day-old unsexed Sasso chicks were randomly
assigned to three groups (20 chicks per group) and each group was divided into 4 replicates with 5 chicks each based on feed
restriction program during the rearing period (60 days). The first group (G1) is control in which birds were fed ad libitum had
free access to feed (no restriction). The second group (G2) was subjected to temporary feed restriction at the first 2 weeks as
birds had access to feed for 12 h only after that they had free access to feed until the end of the experimental period. The third
one (G3) was subjected to continuous feed restriction as birds had free access to feed for 12 h only throughout the rearing
periods. During the study period, growth performance and behavioral patterns were estimated. At the end of the study, blood
samples for cortisol testing were taken. Three birds from each group were slaughtered at the end of the study to see how the
feed restriction affected carcass parameters. Feed restriction had a substantial impact (P ≤ 0.05) on final body weight and
carcass parameters. Feed restriction elevated blood cortisol significantly (P = 0.004). Feed restriction showed a significant
impact on some behaviors as feeding, stretching, preening, and aggression. Overall, different feed restriction programs had
a wide effect on growth performance, behaviors, cortisol concentration, and carcass parameters of Sasso broilers. |
