The article discusses wet litter in broiler farming, a persistent issue linked to low-level enteritis and poor gut health. Modern broilers are highly sensitive to stress, which leads to rapid gut passage of food and disrupted digestion. This creates an environment where harmful bacteria (E. coli, Clostridia, Campylobacter) proliferate, leading to wet droppings and litter deterioration.
Key Causes of Wet Litter
- Gizzard dysfunction – Retro-peristalsis (food moving back up the intestine for better digestion) is disrupted, leading to poor digestion and bacterial overgrowth.
- Mycotoxins & viral infections – These damage the gizzard lining, further impairing digestion.
- Overheated or poorly processed feed – Affects gizzard function and contributes to gut stress.
- Antibiotic overuse – While antibiotics treat bacterial imbalances, they also disrupt gut microbiota and encourage resistance.
Impact of Wet Litter
- Increases risk of pododermatitis (footpad lesions).
- Raises ammonia levels, harming bird welfare.
- Regulatory pressures force farmers to reduce antibiotic use.
Alternative Approach: Essential Oils
The article explores the use of essential oils as a natural alternative to antibiotics for managing wet litter. Essential oils have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and gut-protective properties.
Step-by-Step Treatment Strategy
- Early Signs (Pale, porridge-like droppings):
- Biostop (from BioPoint, Poland) – A blend of essential oils that increases mucus production and improves gut health.
- Given for 12 hours per day, up to 5 days.
- Moderate Enteritis (Brown, liquid diarrhea):
- Biostop + Salivet (a natural salicylic acid extract from willow bark).
- Helps control gut inflammation and supports tight junction integrity (prevents bacteria from penetrating intestinal walls).
- Treatment alternates between Biostop and Salivet (12 hours each per day for 3 days).
- Severe Cases:
- Essential oils are used alongside conventional therapy (not as a replacement).
Conclusion
Essential oils, particularly Biostop and Salivet, offer a natural, antibiotic-free solution to controlling wet litter and gut health issues in broilers. When applied early and consistently, they help reduce antibiotic use, improve litter quality, and enhance overall bird welfare. However, good farm management and preventive strategies remain essential for long-term success.