Litter quality in poultry houses directly affects foot health, respiratory welfare, and behavioral expression; management is a key welfare determinant.
Litter quality is a fundamental determinant of poultry welfare that depends on ventilation, stocking density, drinking system design, and litter management practices. Wet litter causes footpad dermatitis — a painful condition affecting the majority of broilers in poorly managed systems. High ammonia from wet litter causes chronic respiratory irritation. Dry friable litter enables natural dustbathing behavior.