Advances in keeping laying hens in various cage-free systems: part I rearing phase

SUMMARY: Cage-free housing of pullets and laying hens is becoming more and more popular around the world. This paper reviews the literature on the most common cage-free rearing systems for pullets: floor systems with or without elevated structures, multi-tier systems, systems with access to a covered veranda and/or a free-range, and organic systems. The aim is to provide an extensive overview of various aspects of these cage-free systems, such as structure and size and functional elements for the birds. Most research on pullets in cage-free systems focuses on the prevention of health and welfare problems during the later laying period. Investigations on the actual health and welfare status during rearing are rare. There is evidence that pullets should be reared in a system as similar as possible to the later housing system for layers. Particularly for complex multi-tier systems, pullets need to develop sufficient adaptive skills. Effects of providing environmental enrichment during rearing, such as plastic objects, hay or alfalfa bales and pecking blocks, on welfare in early and later life are inconsistent across all alternative pullet housing systems. To prevent feather pecking, other factors like diet and space allowance have to be considered as well. There is a need for further research regarding free-range and organic housing systems for pullets. In addition, environmental-, economic- and food safety aspects of rearing pullets in cage-free systems should be investigated in future research.