Gait scoring provides a practical, validated tool for assessing lameness in broiler chickens. Its systematic use on farm and at abattoir enables welfare benchmarking and targeted improvement.
Broiler lameness is one of the most significant and widespread welfare problems in food animal production. A lame broiler experiences pain with every step — restricted movement limits feeding, water access, and social behaviour. The scale of the problem means millions of birds are suffering on any given day in standard commercial production. Gait scoring provides the measurement tool needed to monitor and improve this situation. When used systematically, it reveals the welfare cost of current production parameters and creates accountability for improvement. The commercial incentive exists — lame birds have poorer feed conversion and higher condemnation rates. Welfare and productivity goals align in reducing lameness through slower growth genetics, better litter management, and lower stocking densities.