Farm Animals

Respiratory Welfare in Broiler Chickens

Fast-growing broiler breeds suffer high rates of respiratory problems due to their rapid growth rates.

Key Facts

Modern broilers grow to slaughter weight in 35-42 days compared to 84 days in the 1950s
Rapid growth causes disproportionate organ development affecting heart and lungs
Ascites (water belly) kills 1-2% of all broilers globally due to oxygen insufficiency
Chronic hypoxia causes systemic welfare impacts beyond the respiratory system
Slower-growing breeds have dramatically lower rates of metabolic disease

Welfare Considerations

Broiler breeding selection for rapid growth has created birds with hearts and lungs that cannot sustain their body mass. Chronic oxygen deficit causes ascites, which kills millions of birds annually in considerable distress. Birds showing ascites have difficulty breathing, exercise intolerance, and distended abdomens. Switching to slower-growing breeds reduces these problems by 70-80% but increases production costs, creating a welfare-economics tension in the industry.

What You Can Do

Choose higher-welfare chicken from slower-growing breeds when purchasing
Support welfare standards requiring slower-growing breeds
Advocate for breeding regulations that prioritise respiratory health
Learn to recognise signs of respiratory distress in poultry
Reduce chicken consumption or choose welfare-certified alternatives