Reducing footpad dermatitis in broilers

Foot health of poultry has both economic and animal welfare impacts on broiler production. Chicken feet (paws) are a major export product for the poultry industry. The majority of the losses in paw production are due to footpad dermatitis. Footpad dermatitis is a condition where lesions form on the bottom of the feet. Moisture of the bedding material is a major factor in incidence and severity of footpad dermatitis. Current work by UGA poultry scientists has shown that proper management of drinkers, ventilation and bird distribution throughout the broiler house can reduce the incidence of footpad dermatitis by as much as 40 percent. The depth of litter is also a factor that can impact footpad dermatitis. Increased depth of the bedding material handles the moisture load in a typical broiler house. Together these management practices can provide environments that are conducive to better feet health in broilers.