Leg and foot problems are among the most significant and widespread welfare issues in modern broiler production, affecting billions of birds annually.
Leg and foot problems in broilers cause chronic pain affecting a very large proportion of the world's most numerous farmed animals. A broiler with severe footpad dermatitis or lameness experiences every step as painful throughout its final weeks of life. The combination of genetic selection for extreme growth and intensive housing conditions has created an epidemic of musculoskeletal suffering. Breed reform combined with improved litter management and reduced stocking density are the primary solutions.