Lameness in broiler chickens in Kazakhstan: prevalence and key risk factors from commercial farms

Аннотация

Background and Aim. Lameness in broiler chickens is a major welfare and economic concern affecting productivity and farm profitability worldwide. However, information regarding the prevalence and associated risk factors of broiler lameness in Kazakhstan remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of lameness in commercial broiler farms and identify the main contributing factors under local production conditions.
Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from July to October 2025 on 10 commercial poultry farms located in different regions of Kazakhstan. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering housing conditions, litter management, stocking density, feeding practices, environmental control, health management, and the occurrence of lameness. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the collected data.
Results. Lameness was reported on mostfarms, although prevalence varied substantially among production systems. The proportion of lame birds at slaughter ranged from 0 to over 10%, with an average prevalence of 2.1 ± 3.2%. Severe lameness cases (Score ≥ 3) averaged 4.7 ± 6.9%. Poor litter quality, high stocking density, inadequate temperature and humidity control, and differences in feeding strategies were identified as major risk factors. Among infectious agents, Staphylococcus spp. was the most frequently reported pathogen. Although preventive measures were implemented on most farms, their implementationwas often inconsistent.
Conclusion. The findings demonstrate that broiler lameness in Kazakhstan is a multifactorial problem influenced by management, environmental, and infectious factors. This study provides one of the first comprehensive assessments of lameness in commercial broiler production in Kazakhstan and highlights the need for improved management practices, standardized monitoring systems, and more effective prevention strategies.