Abstract

Effects on production and health in broilers vaccinated against coccidiosis (Paracox(R), Schering-Plough Animal Health) in combination with an antibacterial organic compound (Orego-Stim(R), Meriden Animal Health Ltd.) were investigated. To obtain an environment and infection level similar to practical conditions, experimental floor pens were set up in a commercial broiler chicken house. Orego-Stim(R) supplement increased live weight and feed intake up to 48 days of age, whilst feed conversion ratio was not significantly affected. Vaccinated birds had a significantly higher live weight between 34 and 48 days, compared to non-vaccinated, but vaccination did not significantly affect feed intake or feed conversion ratio. Coccidial numbers in the litter were low, and only minor intestinal lesions were found. There were no significant differences in lesion scores between the different treatments. Orego-Stim(R) supplement decreased caecal numbers of Clostridium perfringens at 31 days, but not at 52 days, and numbers were not affected at all by anticoccidial vaccination. Bird health was overall good. The results indicate that vaccination against coccidiosis in combination with an in-feed antibacterial compound may be an alternative control method for intestinal health in organically produced chickens

Keywords

Clostridium perfringens; Eimeria; Orego-Stim; Paracox

Published in

Acta Agriculturae Scandinavica, Section A - Animal Science
2003, Volume: 53, number: 2, pages: 101-109
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS AS

SLU Authors

• Waldenstedt, Lotta

  • Department of Applied Animal Science and Welfare, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

UKÄ Subject classification

Animal and Dairy Science
Veterinary Science


Publication identifier

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09064700310007977

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/530