Litter quality in broiler chicken housing is one of the most important welfare determinants, directly causing foot pad dermatitis, hock burns and breast blisters when poorly managed.
Poor litter quality causes painful foot pad and hock burns that impair mobility and the ability to reach food and water. Breast blisters from wet litter cause discomfort at rest. Welfare priorities include maintaining ventilation to control moisture, managing drinker height and pressure to prevent spillage, avoiding stocking densities that cause excessive litter soiling, and using absorbent litter materials.