Litter quality in broiler chicken housing directly affects foot health, respiratory welfare, and overall welfare indicators. Good litter management is a fundamental welfare intervention.
Foot pad dermatitis caused by poor litter conditions is one of the most prevalent welfare problems in commercial broiler production. Severe lesions cause pain that reduces activity, feeding, and water intake. High ammonia levels from wet litter also cause respiratory irritation and eye damage. Good litter management including adequate ventilation, appropriate stocking density, and drinker height adjustment can prevent most severe cases. Foot pad scoring programmes enable continuous monitoring and management response.