Influence of the method of calcium provision on Marek's disease losses in compound and choice fed layers.

ABSTRACT

1. Two strains of layers were fed compound or choice forms of a standard diet and given calcium as either ground limestone or coarse limestone grit daily or every 2nd day. Mortality caused by Marek's disease was monitored during the rearing and laying phases. 2. A dramatic difference in Marek's disease mortality was found between the strains. Heavy Marek's disease mortality in the imported strain A in the rearing phase was not markedly affected by dietary or calcium treatment. 3. Method of feeding and calcium provision interacted to influence significantly the risk of death due to Marek's disease in the laying phase in layer strain A. 4. Choice feeding may adversely influence Marek's disease losses in layers.