Effect of production system on foot pad dermatitis (FPD) and plumage quality of geese

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the feather and foot pad dermatitis (FPD) quality of geese reared under barn and free-range production systems. A total of 216 geese were reared for 18 weeks. Feathers were assessed on different body parts using a 4-point scoring system. FPD was assessed on foot pads and webs. Wing and tail plumage condition were significantly better in the free-range system (P<0.01), whereas FPD quality were significantly better under barn conditions (P<0.01). The better plumage conditions found in the free-range system could be a sign of better animal welfare conditions in this system, which needs to be improved to reduce the associated levels of FPD.