Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Table 8.2 Controversial Housing Systems
Name of
housing
system
Species
housed
When used in
the animal's
life
Why the housing system is used
Pros
Cons
Conventional
or battery
cage
Egg-laying
hens
All their
l i life (~18 -
24 months)
Sanitary
Protection from predators.
Reduced death and injurious pecking from
other hens.
Easier to observe birds and provide medical
treatment.
Economically efficient.
Little room to move.
Restricts natural behaviors like
dust-bathing, walking, foraging,
nesting, wing flapping, stretching,
body shakes, tail wagging, and
roosting.
Reduced bone strength.
Gestation crate
Pregnant
sow
During
pregnancy
(~115 days)
Reduces aggression and injury between sows.
Sows do not need to compete for food.
Protection from heat and cold.
Easier to provide medical treatment.
Economically efficient.
Sow can neither walk nor turn around.
No comfortable area to rest.
Boredom can cause stereotypic behavior
(odd repetitive behavior).
Farrowing
crate
Sows
During birth
and nursing
(~20-30 days)
Protects piglets from being crushed by mother.
Gives piglets constant access to sow.
Provides piglets choice between cooler and
warmer areas.
Flooring is dry and sanitary.
Easier to assist sows in birthing.
Sows do not have to compete for food.
Economically efficient.
Sow can neither walk nor turn around.
No comfortable area to rest.
Boredom can cause stereotypic behavior
(odd repetitive behavior).
