INFLUENCE OF THE HOUSING TYPE ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE AND LAMB WELFARE IN INTENSIVE FATTENING SYSTEMS

Abstract

The aim of this review was to determine the influence of the housing type on the productive performance and welfare of lambs in intensive fattening systems. The available literature shows several housing types that differ by their position, either at ground level or elevated or from the bedding material used. Raised pens, per se, do not seem to improve the productive performance of the lambs. In addition, they negatively influence animal welfare. For these reasons, it is proposed to enrich the environment in these housing types without increasing costs and improving comfort for animals. In Mexico, contrary to other producing countries of sheep, there is a lack of scientific evidences of the suitable housing for fattening and finishing lambs in the different geographical zones of the country. The attention to this demand, in a multidisciplinary manner, would help to reduce the production problems, welfare issues and economic losses in a sustainable manner in the fattening of sheep in Mexico.