Effect of wet feeding on performance, blood plasma indices, intestinal histomorphometry, and economics of broiler chickens under hot climatic conditions.

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the impact of wet feeding on broiler chicken performance and intestinal histomorphometry. The research was conducted at the Veterinary College, Udaipur, India, using 144 commercial broiler chicks from day 1 to 6 weeks of age. The chicks were divided randomly into three experimental groups, each with four replicates comprising 48 birds. The control group (G1) was fed dry; while, group 2 (G2) received wet feed supplemented with 1.00 g water per g of feed and group 3 (G3) received wet feed supplemented with 1.20 g water per g of feed. Results revealed that G3 had significantly superior feed conversion ratios, lower feed intake, and increased body weight and weight gain compared to G2 and G1. Among the three treatment groups, there were no variations in blood plasma indicators. In comparison with G1, duodenum and ileum in G2 had higher villus height. The G3 revealed higher net profit margins and 18.89% saving of feed compared to G1, suggesting that it may be a valuable tool for lowering chicken feed costs.