Effect of wet feeding on performance, blood plasma indices, intestinal histomorphometry, and economics of broiler chickens under hot climatic conditions

The study aimed to investigate the impact of wet feeding on broiler chicken performance and intestinal histomorphometry. The research was conducted at the Veterinary College, Udaipur, India, using ۱۴۴ commercial broiler chicks from day ۱ to ۶ weeks of age. The chicks were divided randomly into three experimental groups, each with four replicates comprising ۴۸ birds. The control group (G۱) was fed dry; while, group ۲ (G۲) received wet feed supplemented with ۱.۰۰ g water per g of feed and group ۳ (G۳) received wet feed supplemented with ۱.۲۰ g water per g of feed. Results revealed that G۳ had significantly superior feed conversion ratios, lower feed intake, and increased body weight and weight gain compared to G۲ and G۱. Among the three treatment groups, there were no variations in blood plasma indicators. In comparison with G۱, duodenum and ileum in G۲ had higher villus height. The G۳ revealed higher net profit margins and ۱۸.۸۹% saving of feed compared to G۱, suggesting that it may be a valuable tool for lowering chicken feed costs.

Keywords:

Blood plasma , Economics , Histomorphometry , Performance , Wet feed