The effect of cellulose added to straw bedding on turkeys’ welfare and production results

The study was conducted to investigate the effect of addition of cellulose to straw litter on the degree of bedding encrustation as well as on turkeys’ welfare and production results. Birds were kept either on straw mixed with cellulose (sector PC) or on straw only (sector PS). During the experiment, once a week, degree of litter surface encrustation and health state of turkeys legs were determined. Birds’ weight and mortality were recorded. The addition of cellulose to straw litter resulted in slower tempo of bedding encrustation and lesser occurrence of leg deformation. Cellulose application contributed to improved welfare of birds and increased production results (lower mortality and higher final body weight).