Water balance of Colostomised and non‐Colostomised hens at different ambient temperatures

Abstract

1. The quantities of water gained and lost, and hence the total water balance, were determined in normal and colostomised White Leghorn laying hens at ambient temperatures of 5, 20 and 35 °G.

2. In both groups the water intake and water loss at all temperatures were well balanced.

3. Water to food ratios and water content of excreta of normal hens increased with increasing temperature.

4. The wetter excreta at 35 °C are caused by an increased urine production and not by an increased water passage through the alimentary tract.