Supplements

Intra Calferol™  – timing is crucial for optimal laying egg performance

The rising demand in commercial layer and parent stock performance increases pressure on the birds to metabolize and mobilize more calcium from the intestine to the bones and uterus for eggshell production. The skeletons and dietary requirements of hens are unique relative to the level of calcium intake and the capacity of bone that is constantly being built and resorbed.

The eggshell is formed from calcium carbonate, and the layer will metabolize and transport the total weight of her skeleton several times to produce eggshells during the laying cycle. The hen requires approximately 2.5 g calcium in around 20 hours to produce a fully developed egg of 60g. About 60-70% of the required calcium can be provided via the feed which is not enough to cover the peak in calcium requirement during eggshell formation. All the rest must be metabolized from the bodily reserves which is a unique but delicate system. Creating and maintaining a strong skeleton by assuring the provision and availability of essential nutrients is vital to ensure a productive laying hen.

Creating a strong skeleton

The development of the structural bones (cortical bone tissue) occurs during the rearing phase at which the layer has nearly achieved a mature skeletal frame size. From 15 weeks to 25 weeks hens develop their ovaries and the reproductive tract which also drives the formation of medullary bone and stops the formation of structural bone. It is therefore of importance that the formation of structural bones is optimal before the onset of sexual maturity.

Maintaining a strong skeleton

Medullary bone is a unique woven bone which functions as a calcium reserve for the eggshell formation when feed is insufficient. Medullary bone is ideally the first source mobilised when more calcium is required. As modern hybrid laying hens have been bred for high egg production and medullary bone is formed as soon as egg production starts, there is a high risk that it loses its structure and therefore strength resulting in leg problems, especially in older birds.

Age of the layer is the most determining factor of eggshell breaking strength and quality. Especially in older hens (>40 weeks of age) eggshell quality is deteriorating and is mainly reflected in an increase of cracked eggs.

Timing is crucial

Intra Calferol is a liquid mixture of concentrated and stabilized Vitamin D3 alongside organic calcium and magnesium and a phosphorus releaser. Supplementation is crucial to support the creation of a strong skeleton and upon experiencing egg shell quality issues. Intra Calferol is easily added to the drinking water for rapid delivery to the bird, when needed.

Contact CCD Animal Health for more information on Intra Calferol.