The temperature during summer in many parts of India is havoc! For us, humans, they are incredibly hot, then what to say about broilers? Of course, it becomes unbearable when temperature sores to 45°C – 47°C in certain parts of India. It becomes challenging for broiler farmers to manage the health of broilers during this testing season. Rising temperatures affect poultry health to a large extent affecting its eating pattern and quantity, weight, productivity, growth rates, and immunity making it more susceptible to infections and diseases.
Well, as said every problem has a solution, and so does this! Following are creative and popular ways that will help you tackle heat during the summer season and manage the health of broilers. A strategic approach along with providing natural growth boosters in the form of poultry feed supplements and a health management plan can help you thrive through the unforgivable summer season.
Basics of effects of rising temperature on broiler health
Heat stress is one of the effects caused due to exposure to high temperatures. Ambient high temperatures trigger a physiological, emotional, and physical response in broilers leading to heat stress. Some of the immediate effects which can be observed in broilers are:
- dehydration
- electrolyte imbalance
- diversion of growth energy toward body temperature maintenance
- weight loss
- compromised immune system
- infections and diseases
Health Management of broilers to tackle heat stress in summer
Of course, natural growth boosters for broilers are available, but it is also important to prepare broilers and their surroundings that are summer-friendly. The following approach may help you tackle heat stress and manage the health of broilers during summer.
- Provide ample ventilation and cooling systems
- A well-balanced diet is non-negotiable. The diet which is exceptionally planed for tackling high temperatures and is loaded with electrolytes, essential vitamins, proteins, and natural growth boosters is a blessing for your broiler.
- Nature growth boosters help maintain hydration and humidity
- A constant supply of cool and clean water to prevent dehydration.
- Maintain a clean coop environment
Best Natural Growth Boosters for Broilers
The following are natural ingredients that are the best natural growth boosters and help broilers to sustain during summer.
Probiotics
- beneficial for gut bacteria
- improves nutrient absorption
- supports better digestion
- better feed utilization
- helps to gain weight
Pro tip: The addition of quality poultry feed supplements that are high in probiotics to the regular feed will work wonders for your broiler.
Prebiotics (These are dietary fibres that act as food for probiotics)
- Helps stimulate growth and maximize the benefits of probiotics
- Sources from which prebiotics can be availed are chicory root, FOS, and MOS
Herbs and Spices
- Supports gut health
- Improves immunity
- Examples – Thyme, oregano, and garlic. They are loaded with natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Apple Cider Vinegar
- Regulates gut pH,
- Supports digestion
- Enhances nutrient absorption
Importance of usage of Poultry Feed Supplements
A well-thought combination of naturally available growth boosters along with commercially available growth boosters in the form of poultry feed supplements will help your broiler to survive the cruel summer and its high temperatures. Refit Animal Care produces high-quality, well-researched, and highly acclaimed poultry feed supplements. Refit’s summer-specific broiler supplements such as Broiler+ by Refit and Florazone by are loaded with the following ingredients.
Electrolyte Supplement
- To replace lost electrolytes
- Helps in rehydration
- Maintains muscle functioning
Thoughtful Combination of Organic Chromium & Vitamin C
- Enhances insulin production
- Improves glucose utilization
- Tackles oxidative stress due to heat stress
- Promotes overall growth
Natural Immune Modulator
- Strengthens the immune system
- Improves the broiler’s ability to fight infections
Pro Tip: Consult your veterinarian or animal nutritionist before introducing any new supplements to your broiler feed. Understand the dosage and frequency of feeding poultry feed supplements.
