Farm Animals

Poultry Litter Management and Welfare

Litter quality in poultry houses is a critical welfare factor affecting foot health, respiratory disease, and behaviour in broiler and laying flocks.

Key Facts

Poor litter quality is the primary driver of hock burn and footpad dermatitis in broilers
Wet litter results from high stocking densities, poor ventilation, and excessive water spillage
Footpad dermatitis affects up to 80% of broiler flocks in some studies
Litter quality scoring is a validated welfare indicator used in assurance schemes
Improved ventilation, drinker management, and stocking density all improve litter quality

Welfare Considerations

Litter quality directly determines the welfare of millions of poultry birds. Investment in housing systems, management practices, and monitoring that maintain dry, friable litter is one of the most impactful welfare interventions in the poultry industry.

What You Can Do

Support poultry certification schemes that include litter quality requirements
Advocate for stocking density limits that support litter quality maintenance
Engage with retailers about litter welfare monitoring in their poultry supply chains
Choose poultry products from certified higher-welfare systems
Support research into alternative litter materials and management strategies