Pododermatitis (FPD) is the inflammation of the paw of chickens affecting some performance characteristics of chickens negatively. To assess the impact of different litter management systems on the incidence and severity of pododermatitis on broiler finishers raised in a humid tropical environment, an experiment was conducted using 180 male broilers divided among 3 groups. In the first group (t-A), litter materials were changed on a weekly basis and replaced with fresh ones while in the second (t-B), the litter materials were turned or raked once a week, and in the third (t-C), the litter materials were left untouched. From the results obtained, broilers on t-A performed better than those on t-B and t-C for feed intake, live weight, weight gain, and feed utilization. Pododermatitis was noticeable among broilers on t-C and much more severe. A positive correlation was observed between the values of litter moisture content, litter pH, and incidence and severity of FPD. Birds on t-C were not active as compared to others. FPD has a negative effect on the performance characteristics and behavior of broiler chickens in the humid tropics. Weekly replacement of litter with fresh ones can alleviate the negative consequences of FPD and improves broiler welfare.

Read the full article in Translational Animal Science.