Importance of farm management in reducing broilers skin lesions

Abstract

The incidence of contact lesions in broiler production is showing an upward trend over the past decades. The frequency and severity of lesions are perceived through the negative effects on productivity, carcass quality and broiler welfare. High variability of the frequency of contact lesion between farms indicates a significant influence of management and applied technological procedures on farms. The most common forms of contact lesions are on the feet, ankles and breast and the areas of direct and prolonged contact with the litter. In this regard, a number of studies have pointed to the significant effect of litter on the health and integrity of the skin. In addition to litter, farm factors that are associated with the incidence of contact lesions are stocking density, environmental conditions, light program, nutritional factors, etc. The paper gives an overview of recent research aimed at reducing the incidence and severity of contact lesions by implementing of certain technological processes with effects on the quality of the litter.