Transitioning from caged to cage-free egg production requires management changes that affect both hen welfare and production performance. Understanding common challenges helps producers achieve better welfare outcomes.
The welfare improvement of cage-free systems over conventional cages is real but not automatic — management quality determines whether the behavioral freedom offered by cage-free housing translates into better welfare outcomes. Feather pecking increases in higher-density cage-free systems without adequate enrichment, beak condition monitoring, and light management. Ammonia from litter buildup causes respiratory welfare harm if ventilation is inadequate. Training stockpeople to manage cage-free systems, investing in appropriate enrichment, and maintaining litter quality are the key management requirements for achieving welfare-positive cage-free transitions.