Abstract
As an extremely complex and intricate system, the intestinal tract is still viewed by most as a “black box” with many basic and important gaps of knowledge. Nevertheless, its effective functionality is crucial in determining animal health, well-being, and productive performance. In the increasingly competitive animal production industry, the pressure for more efficient production systems is a constant, and the shift away from using certain technologies, such as antibiotics, has created a need for other options to support and manage intestinal health. In this review, we present a framework for the management of intestinal health applied to farm animals. A multitude of intestinal health management tools is increasingly available, primarily used as feed and water additives. However, a more comprehensive approach is needed, beyond just the use of additives. It is important to further develop and apply nutritional strategies, such as the strategic use of feed ingredients, pay more attention to water availability and quality. Additionally, stress management should be a component of any intestinal health management program. Managing intestinal health in farm animals is a complex challenge, and as such, it requires a broader, holistic approach.
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Rostagno, M.H. (2022). Managing Intestinal Health in Farm Animals: A Critical View. In: Kogut, M.H., Zhang, G. (eds) Gut Microbiota, Immunity, and Health in Production Animals. The Microbiomes of Humans, Animals, Plants, and the Environment, vol 4. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-90303-9_1
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