Topics:
Animal Refresher, Poultry Science
True Statements About Cage Layer Fatigue
Which of the following statements is true about Cage Layer Fatigue?
- It is a type of osteoporosis commonly found in layers in the cage system
- It is caused by excess calcium and phosphorus in the diet
- Exercise prevents this disease entirely
- All of the above — Correct Answer
Explanation:
Correct Answer: All of the above (three correct sub-statements from original)
All three original sub-statements about Cage Layer Fatigue are correct:
- It is a type of osteoporosis, commonly found in layers kept in the cage system.
- It is due to deficiencies of calcium, phosphorus, and Vitamin D (not excess — the correct sub-statement says deficiency).
- Lack of exercise may contribute to the disease, as birds in cages cannot move freely.
Cage Layer Fatigue — Details
- Syndrome: Metabolic bone disease (osteoporosis) in commercial layers in battery cages.
- Primary cause: Calcium depletion from bones to support intensive egg shell formation, combined with inadequate dietary Ca, P, and Vit. D.
- Aggravating factor: Inability to exercise in cages → muscles weaken → birds cannot stand.
- Signs: Inability to stand, paralysis of legs, thin fragile bones.
- Prevention: Adequate Ca (3–3.5%), P (0.65%), and Vit. D₃ in feed; ensure adequate light for Vit. D synthesis.
Why Other Options Are Wrong (individual options)
- Excess Ca/P → incorrect; it is DEFICIENCY that causes cage layer fatigue.
- Exercise prevents entirely → exercise helps, but dietary correction is also essential.
