Farm Animals

Farmed Chicken Litter Quality and Welfare

Litter quality in broiler sheds directly affects foot health, skin conditions, and respiratory welfare of chickens.

Key Facts

Wet litter causes painful hock burns and footpad dermatitis
Ammonia from litter causes respiratory irritation and eye damage
Better litter management reduces medication use and improves welfare
Stocking density directly affects litter moisture levels

Welfare Considerations

Footpad dermatitis from wet litter affects the majority of commercial broilers and causes significant pain. Birds with severe lesions reduce movement and feeding, leading to further welfare compromise. Litter quality is a key welfare indicator in broiler assessment.

What You Can Do

Choose broiler products with footpad dermatitis monitoring requirements
Advocate for lower stocking density limits that reduce litter moisture
Support farm assurance schemes that audit litter quality
Back research into litter management practices that improve welfare