Farm Animal Welfare

Hen Housing and Bone Health

Laying hen bone health is affected by housing system, with exercise and movement opportunities significantly influencing osteoporosis risk and fracture rates.

Key Facts

Bone loss during egg production is substantial as calcium is mobilised for shell formation
Cage systems allow minimal exercise resulting in severe osteoporosis in laying hens
Free-range and aviary systems allow bone-strengthening exercise improving skeletal health
Bone fractures from osteoporosis cause chronic pain affecting up to 50% of caged hens
Perch use strengthens leg bones and maintains muscle mass in aviary systems

Welfare Considerations

Osteoporosis in laying hens is a direct welfare consequence of housing systems that prevent exercise. The bone pain from fractures causes chronic suffering that affects millions of hens. System design that enables bone-strengthening exercise is essential for skeletal welfare.

What You Can Do

Choose eggs from free-range or barn systems where exercise is possible
Support cage-free egg commitments from food companies and retailers
Advocate for bone health indicators in laying hen welfare certification schemes