How to keep your chickens happy and healthy

Chickens are sensitive to temperature and may be prone to illness. For this reason, adequate housing and healthcare are essential for profitable production. Janine Ryan reports on some things to consider when keeping chickens to ensure their welfare, better growth rates, and humane handling techniques.

- Janine Ryan

While some may believe that ‘animal welfare’ and commercial livestock production are terms that cannot co-exist, the truth is that most farmers are arguably more committed to animal welfare than the most passionate animal activist is. This is because farmers are deeply invested in their farming businesses, and animals that are under stress due to poor handling, lack of food or water, injury or illness are bound to be less productive.

Most farmers also appreciate their animals for the function they perform as part of the farming operation, and so are also deeply invested in the welfare of their animals.

Animal welfare refers to the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of animals. It encompasses a range of factors, including adequate nutrition, shelter, and medical care, as well as the ability to engage in natural behaviour, experience minimal stress and pain, and live in safe and comfortable conditions.

For farmers, ensuring the welfare of their animals is not only an ethical obligation, but also a key aspect of good animal husbandry and profitable agriculture. By providing their animals with optimal living conditions, farmers can help prevent disease, reduce stress and injury, and improve growth and productivity.

FAST FACTS

Animal welfare is important for the profitable production of broilers and layers.

Chickens must receive adequate housing and nutrition.

An unhealthy chicken may be dull-coloured and listless.

Moreover, consumers are increasingly concerned about the welfare of animals raised for food and other agricultural purposes. Many consumers want to know that the products they are buying come from farms that prioritise animal welfare, and are willing to pay a premium for them.