OCCURRENCE OF ARTHRITIS IN COBB AND ROSS BREEDS AT A MEAT PACKING PLANT IN WESTERN PARANÁ FROM JANUARY TO OCTOBER 2024

Abstract

This study evaluated the occurrence of arthritis in broiler chickens of the Cobb and Ross breeds, with data collected from January to October 2024 at a slaughterhouse in western Paraná. Approximately 35.2 million birds were analyzed, 52.98% of which were Cobb and 47.02% Ross. Statistical analysis was performed using XLSTAT software. The results indicated a slight predominance of arthritis in the Ross breed, although not statistically significant (p>0.05). On average, 51.83% of Cobb batches had arthritis above the minimum acceptable percentage, compared to 48.93% of Ross batches. Most condemnations occurred in one joint (0.93%), compared to 0.37% in two tibiometatarsal joints. The total number of condemnations that occurred during the study was 597,074. Factors such as high average weight of the batches, light program, population density, and biosecurity were considered relevant. In relation to average weight, there was a 27.3% correlation for the onset of arthritis, as assessed by the Spearman statistical test, indicating that there are other factors that predispose to arthritis. The study reinforces the need for strict control of management and biosecurity.