Effect of Feed Restriction on Chick Performance

Feed restriction of broiler chicks is one of many strategies used to reduce the metabolic problems associated with the accelerated rapid growth rate of broiler chicks. There are several methods of feed restriction but some of them are inconsistent with broilers welfare terms, and some other methods are inapplicable in the production field. Also, duration of feed restriction is one of several factors which affected on the response of broilers. This study aimed to evaluate different feed restriction methods(low protein diet, maintenance diet or low sodium diet). Duration of feed restriction (3, 6 or 9 d.) and sex of birds were also studied. The results showed that applying feed restriction using LPD for 3 days improved the overall performance of males. While using MD or applying feed restriction for 6 days was more severe. Using low sodium diet for 3 days improved performance of males while increasing the period of restriction to 6 or 9 days reduced the final body weight. The females fed low sodium diet did not compensate their body weight as the control. Applying feed restriction for 6 or 9 days improved the overall feed conversion ratio of female chicks.