Gut Health in Poultry: What Affects Gut Balance and How to Improve Flock Performance

By Dr. Maral Rahmani

PoultryMed Veterinary Services

September 2025

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Why Gut Health in Poultry Matters

Over 70% of a chicken’s immune system resides in the gastrointestinal tract. A balanced gut microbiome helps:

• Digest and absorb nutrients efficiently
• Prevent common poultry diseases like necrotic enteritis and coccidiosis
• Improve feed conversion ratio (FCR)
• Reduce mortality and wet litter issues
• Support flock uniformity and growth performance

When the gut is out of balance, birds are more vulnerable to illness, stress, and poor growth leading to higher costs and lower yields.

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What Affects Gut Balance in Chickens?

1. Feed Quality and Nutrition

Poor-quality feed or unbalanced diets can disrupt the gut microbiota. Diets high in indigestible protein can encourage harmful bacteria like Clostridium perfringens. Adding enzymes, fiber, and essential oils can help maintain microbial balance.

2. Water Sanitation

Clean, pH-balanced water is critical. Contaminated or mineral-heavy water can introduce pathogens and disturb gut pH levels. At PoultryMed, we recommend regular water testing and the use of water acidifiers for improved digestion.

3. Biosecurity and Hygiene

Strong biosecurity practices reduce pathogen load. Dirty litter, poorly disinfected equipment, and poor rodent control can all negatively impact the gut environment of your birds.

4. Early Chick Management

5. Probiotics and Natural Additives

Feed additives like probiotics, prebiotics, organic acids, and phytogenics (plant-based compounds) support beneficial gut bacteria. These are especially useful in antibiotic-free poultry production systems. However, choosing the right product and using it at the right time is essential to achieve the best results.

5. Stress and Environmental Control

Heat stress, overcrowding, and poor ventilation can weaken the gut lining. Birds under stress are more likely to suffer from “leaky gut” and secondary infections.

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Final Thoughts

Gut health is the foundation of profitable, sustainable poultry production. By understanding the factors that influence gut balance and taking proactive steps to support it, you can raise healthier birds, reduce medication use, and improve overall flock performance.

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