Abstract: A feed intake control apparatus for caged animals is disclosed which comprises a movable belt adapted to cover a standard feeding device such as a feed trough adjacent to a cage wherein a portion of the belt contains an opening to provide both an opened and closed position for the belt over the feeding device. A control device for the belt is also provided for preselected movement of the belt to either an opened or closed position to permit the animal access to a feeding device when the belt is in an opened position and denying the animal access when the belt is in a closed position. The feed intake control apparatus of the present invention is readily adaptable to existing cage and trough type feeding systems without elaborate or extensive modification.

Abstract: This invention relates primarily to innovations in methods of feeding laying hens wherein the hens' nutrient reserves and specialized nutritious feeds are utilized so that a uniform rate of egg production can be maintained at substantial economic savings. More specifically, it concerns a feeding program wherein laying hens are fed a ration with vitamins, minerals and a specific low total crude protein for an effective amount of time to reduce the hens' nutrient reserves without reducing their rate of lay and total feed efficiency. The hens are then fed a ration adequate in total crude protein, vitamins and minerals for the remaining feeding time to replenish the nutrient reserves in an efficient manner while maintaining optimum egg production and other performance characteristics.