Production, Quality and Hatchability of Eggs from Hens Fed Monensin

Abstract

White Leghorn hens were fed a diet containing 0, 50, 100, or 200 p.p.m. of the anticoccidial drug monensin. A level of 200 p.p.m. reduced feed consumption, egg production, and egg weight, compared with birds receiving unmedicated feed. Weight loss was seen in hens receiving 100 and 200 p.p.m. monensin. Feed consumption decreased during the first week while the decrease in egg production was delayed until one week later. Levels of 50 and 100 p.p.m. monensin had no effect on egg production or feed consumption compared with unmedicated controls. No detectable effect was seen with any level of medication on Haugh units, egg shell thickness, or visible quality of eggs. A level of 100 p.p.m. monensin did not affect fertility and hatchability of eggs.