1. Introduction to the Pullet Cage System

A Pullet Cage System is a specialized housing solution designed for raising young layer chickens (pullets) from day-old chicks until they reach maturity and transition into layer cages. These systems are engineered to create a controlled environment where pullets can grow uniformly, safely, and efficiently, ensuring proper development before entering the laying phase.

Modern pullet cage systems are built with high-strength galvanized steel, optimized feeding lines, reliable watering systems, and efficient manure removal mechanisms. They support high-density rearing, precise environmental control, and excellent biosecurity, significantly reducing mortality and improving flock quality.

A well-designed system leads to:

• Consistent body weight growth

• Uniform pullet development

• High maturity rate

• Early and stable peak egg production

The pullet period is one of the most critical stages in poultry production, and a professional pullet cage system directly influences the efficiency of the entire layer operation.

2. Technical Specifications of Pullet Cage Systems

Although specifications vary by manufacturer, below are typical parameters used in Commercial Pullet Cages.

2.1 Cage Dimensions

2.2 Bird Capacity

2.3 Material & Coating

• Hot-dip galvanized steel (275–350 g/m² zinc coating)

• Electro-galvanized wire mesh

• Stainless steel nipples for drinking lines

• Polypropylene feeding trough (UV-resistant)

2.4 Feeding System

• Chain feeding line or pan feeding system

• Feed window height adjustable

• Feed delivery via motor-driven hopper

• Uniform feed distribution across tiers

2.5 Watering System

• Nipple drinking lines with anti-drip cups

• 360° nipple activation

• Water pressure regulator and filter

2.6 Manure Removal System

• PP manure belt (1.0–1.2 mm thickness)

• Belt scraper or roller system

• Optional drying fan for moisture control

2.7 Lighting System

• LED dimmable lights

• 10–20 lux for early growth

• Gradual dimming for training birds’ circadian rhythm

3. Key Features of the Pullet Cage System

3.1 High-Density Rearing Efficiency

The structure maximizes space usage and supports large flock management with reduced land and facility costs.

3.2 Optimized Growth Environment

• Stable climate

• Balanced feed consumption

• Controlled light programs

• Uniform access to feeders and drinkers

3.3 Wire Mesh Design to Prevent Injury

• Smooth edges prevent bruises or scratches

• Suitable mesh spacing prevents foot damage

3.4 Clean & Hygienic Management

• Manure belts transport waste out automatically

• Reduces ammonia levels & bacterial growth

3.5 Modular and Expandable

Systems can be expanded horizontally or vertically, with automated systems easily integrated.

3.6 Improved Biosecurity

• Minimal human-bird contact

• Enclosed facility reduces pathogen exposure

3.7 Low Maintenance & Long Lifespan

Galvanized steel ensures corrosion resistance for up to 15–20 years.

4. Advantages of Using a Pullet Cage System

4.1 Better Uniformity of the Flock

Growing pullets with similar weight ensures:

• Earlier start of lay

• Higher egg production at peak

• Improved long-term health

4.2 Reduced Mortality and Stress

Controlled environment avoids:

• Overcrowding stress

• Pecking injuries

• Foot deformities

• Exposure to predators or diseases

4.3 Precise Feed and Water Efficiency

• Less wastage due to controlled trough access

• Lower feed conversion ratio (FCR)

• Stable daily intake

4.4 Lower Operating Costs

Automation reduces labor costs significantly.

4.5 Better Training for Future Layer Hens

Pullet cages prepare birds for:

• Feeder/Drinker familiarity

• Cage environment adaptation

• Light cycle recognition

Ensuring they transition smoothly into production cages.

5. Application Scenarios

5.1 Commercial Layer Farms

Large-scale farms benefit from high-density, fully automated pullet growing systems.

5.2 Breeder Farms

Maintains precise growth standards to support breeding performance.

5.3 Small and Medium Poultry Houses

Modular systems suit varied barn layouts.

5.4 Climate-Controlled Closed Houses

Pullet cages pair perfectly with automated:

• Ventilation

• Cooling

• Heating

• Lighting

5.5 Multi-Age Poultry Farms

Segregated tiers allow separate age groups within the same facility.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Installation Guidelines

1. Ensure level ground and stable base structure.

2. Align cage rows with ventilation flow direction.

3. Install water lines after cage frames to avoid damage.

4. Test lighting and feeding systems before bird placement.

5. Sanitize all equipment thoroughly.

6.2 Bird Placement

• Use brooders or heating plates for chicks (0–2 weeks).

• Maintain flock density according to growth stage.

• Gradually adjust nipple height as birds grow.

6.3 Feeding Management

• Use chick starter feed for early weeks.

• Increase feed window height as pullets grow.

• Maintain consistent feed delivery speed.

6.4 Water Management

• Flush water lines weekly.

• Adjust pressure regulators regularly.

• Ensure nipple functionality daily.

6.5 Lighting Programs

0–6 weeks: 20–22 hours light for brooding.
6–12 weeks: Gradually reduce to 8–10 hours.
12–16 weeks: Keep stable until transfer to layer cages.

6.6 Manure Removal

• Run manure belts every 1–3 days.

• Keep scrapers aligned and tensioned.

• Prevent manure buildup to reduce ammonia.

7. Maintenance & Safety Guidelines

7.1 Regular Inspections

• Check feeders, drinkers, and cage mesh weekly

• Inspect belts and rollers for wear

7.2 Cleaning Protocol

• Power wash cage floors between flocks

• Disinfect using approved poultry-safe chemicals

7.3 Equipment Safety

• Disconnect power when servicing motors

• Train staff in feed-line and belt safety procedures

8. How to Select a Pullet Cage System

8.1 Consider Flock Size & House Layout

• Length × Width × Height

• Tier number

• Ventilation compatibility

8.2 Automation Level

Choose based on budget:

• Semi-automatic

• Fully automatic

• Smart control with IoT integration

8.3 Material Quality

Prefer:

• Hot-dip galvanized steel

• Anti-corrosion wire mesh

• UV-protected PP troughs

8.4 Environmental Adaptation

• Suitable for hot climates

• Compatible with cooling pads or tunnel ventilation

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: At what age should pullets move to layer cages?

Typically between 15–18 weeks, depending on body weight and maturity.

Q2: How many birds can one cage hold?

A typical cage holds 24–60 birds, depending on age.

Q3: Do pullet cage systems require heating?

Yes, for the first 2–3 weeks, brooders or heaters are essential.

Q4: How often should manure belts be cleaned?

Every 1–3 days is recommended to reduce ammonia and fly pressure.

Q5: What lighting is best for pullets?

Dimmable LED poultry lights with programmable timers.

Q6: Can pullet cages be used in open-sided houses?

Yes, but performance improves with controlled environment systems.

Q7: What is the lifespan of a pullet cage system?

With hot-dip galvanization, 10–20 years of service life is typical.

10. Conclusion

A Pullet Cage System is a foundational investment for any commercial layer or breeder farm. By ensuring uniform growth, strong immunity, and optimal development of pullets, these systems directly influence future laying performance and overall farm profitability.

Company Profile

Shandong Huimin Qinle Livestock Machinery Co., Ltd. (formerly Shandong Huimin Qinle Livestock Machinery Factory) is a professional poultry equipment manufacturer with over 20 years of experience. We offer a comprehensive service package, from design (land and chicken coops), production (equipment and prefabricated steel coops), installation, commissioning, customer training, and after-sales service.

Located in Huimin County, Binzhou City, Shandong Province, China, the company has extensive experience in mechanical processing and manufacturing, as well as livestock machinery production and operation. With fixed assets of RMB 15 million, the company employs 160 people, including 30 R&D staff, and occupies a 40,000-square-meter factory. Equipped with over 110 pieces of advanced precision production equipment, including CNC machining centers and laser cutting machines, the company boasts a production capacity of RMB 50 million.

Chicken Farming Equipment Mesh Production Workshop

Machining Workshop

Turret-type CNC Punch Press, Laser Cutting and Other Machining Equipment

Fully Automated Roll Forming Production Line

Hot-dip Galvanizing Production Line

Electroplating Production Line

Environmental Protection Equipment

Chicken Farming Equipment Product Series

Egg-laying Hen Farming Equipment

Stacked Brooding Cage Equipment

Stacked Broiler Cage Equipment

Stepped Layer Hen Cage Rearing Equipment

Automatic Egg Collection System

H-type Cage Feeding Machine

Stepped Cage Straddle Feeder

Manure Removal Machine

Fans, Heated Curtains, Environmental Control Systems, and Lighting Equipment

Complete Set of Equipment for Organic Fermentation Treatment of Manure