Farmed Animals

Litter Quality and Poultry Welfare

Litter quality in broiler and laying hen housing significantly affects foot health, feather condition, and disease risk.

Key Facts

Wet litter causes footpad dermatitis, a painful condition affecting up to 80% of broilers in some flocks
Footpad dermatitis scoring is used as a welfare indicator at slaughter in Europe
Appropriate litter material including wood shavings reduces moisture and bacterial load
Stocking density, ventilation, and drinker management all affect litter quality
Good litter quality is associated with better feather cover and lower leg health problems

Welfare Considerations

Litter quality is a key driver of welfare outcomes in housed poultry. Wet, compacted litter causes painful footpad lesions, increases ammonia exposure, and raises the risk of respiratory and enteric disease. Regular monitoring and management of litter including turning, removal of wet patches, and appropriate initial depth are achievable and important welfare interventions.

What You Can Do

Support welfare standards that require litter quality monitoring in poultry production
Choose poultry products from certified systems with documented litter management
Advocate for footpad dermatitis scoring at slaughter as a welfare feedback mechanism
Raise awareness about litter quality as a fundamental welfare driver in poultry systems
Support research into optimal litter materials and management for poultry welfare