Keel bone damage is one of the major welfare and health problems of commercial laying hens and is known to affect the welfare and production parameters of laying hens. The present study aims to investigate the effects of perch type (with or without rubber) and genotype (Brown, Black and Barred Prelux) of laying hens on keel bone damage. 357 laying hens were included. Half of the hens of each genotype were housed in enriched cages with perches covered with rubber, and half of the hens of each genotype were housed in cages with perches without rubber. During five 12-day periods (at 25.5, 29.5, 33.5, 37.5, and 41.5 weeks of age), we collected data on egg productivity, feed consumption, feather condition, body mass, and keel bone damage. At 29.5 and 37.5 weeks of age, we recorded duration of resting periods while sitting and standing on perches and wire floors. At the end of this study, we conducted the Tonic Immobility Test. Laying hens housed in cages with rubber perches had statistically significant (P ⡤ 0.05) more severe damage to the keel bone. Genotype had no significant effect on keel bone damage or on any form of resting. We do not recommend using this type of rubber for perches as it does not contribute to the welfare of the laying hens. However, perhaps we should consider using softer materials for perches that may provide more comfort during resting and reduce pressure on the keel bone during resting.
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