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Ammonia and poultry welfare: a review

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 September 2007

H.H. Kristensen  and
C.M. Wathes
H.H. Kristensen*
Affiliation:
Institute of Ecology and Resource Management, University of Edinburgh, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, and Bio-Engineering Division, Silsoe Research Institute, Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedford MK45 4HS, UK
C.M. Wathes
Affiliation:
Bio-Engineering Division, Silsoe Research Institute, Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedford MK45 4HS, UK
*
†Contact for correspondence and requests for reprints: Department of Animal Science and Animal Health, Division of Ethology and Health, Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Grmne-gårdsvej 8, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark. E-mail: HHK@email.dk
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Abstract

Atmospheric ammonia is a major aerial pollutant of poultry buildings. The current exposure limits for ammonia of 25ppm are set on the basis of human safety rather than animal welfare. This paper reviews the evidence for ammonia exposure affecting various aspects of poultry welfare. The reviewed evidence suggests that ammonia exposure (1) causes irritation to the mucous membranes in the eyes and the respiratory system; (2) can increase the susceptibility to respiratory diseases; and (3) may affect food intake, food conversion efficiency and growth rate. The behavioural effects of ammonia on poultry have recently been investigated and suggest that there may be a threshold for ammonia detection or aversion at or below the current exposure limit. The available evidence for the effects of ammonia on poultry welfare should be considered when setting future guidelines for ammonia exposure in poultry houses.

Keywords

Ammoniapoultrywelfare
Type
Research Article
Information
World's Poultry Science Journal , Volume 56 , Issue 3 , September 2000 , pp. 235 - 245
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2000

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