A meta-analysis of the combined effect of housing and environmental enrichment characteristics on the behaviour and performance of pigs

To quantify the combined effect of housing conditions and environmental enrichment on the behaviour and performance of pigs, a meta-analysis was performed using information from 45 experiments in 42 published manuscripts. Multiple regression models were applied to evaluate the effects of space allow...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Applied animal behaviour science 2010, Vol.127, p.3-4
Main Authors: Averos, X, Brossard, L, Dourmad, J.Y, Greef, K.H., de, Edge, H.L, Edwards, S.A, Meunier-Salaün, M.C
Format: Article
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Subjects:
deep-litter
fattening pigs
group-size
growing-finishing pigs
growth-performance
meat quality
physiological-responses
social-behavior
space allowance
weaned pigs
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Summary:To quantify the combined effect of housing conditions and environmental enrichment on the behaviour and performance of pigs, a meta-analysis was performed using information from 45 experiments in 42 published manuscripts. Multiple regression models were applied to evaluate the effects of space allowance per pig (k-value; m2/BW0.667), group size (n), floor characteristics (solid, partly, or totally slatted floor), bedding (presence or absence), and the number and presentation sequence of point-source objects (no object, one object, two simultaneous objects, two alternated objects, three or more simultaneous objects or three or more alternated objects) on the general activity, enrichment and object-directed exploratory behaviour, social behaviour, and productive performance. A non-linear relationship between space allowance per pig and time spent sitting and lying was found (P
ISSN:0168-1591
1872-9045