The quality of litter in broiler chicken houses significantly affects welfare outcomes including foot health, respiratory conditions, and behavioral opportunities.
Litter quality is a powerful but often overlooked determinant of broiler chicken welfare. Wet, compacted litter causes hock burns, foot pad dermatitis, and skin lesions that affect the majority of commercial birds. Ammonia from wet litter irritates respiratory tracts and eyes. Conversely, clean dry litter enables dust bathing behavior that is important for feather maintenance and psychological welfare. Research shows strong correlations between litter quality metrics and welfare outcomes measured at slaughter. Litter quality assessment is used in welfare auditing schemes as a practical welfare indicator. Simple management improvements including reducing stocking density, improving ventilation, and using absorbent materials can significantly improve welfare.