Deep-Litter

Deep-Litter

Definition: deep-litter

deep-litter: A system of using straw, wood shavings, sawdust, or peat moss for bedding poultry or cattle. COMMENT: For poultry, an inch of well-composted horse manure is laid down first, on which wood shavings, peat moss, or cut straw are placed. The litter is changed after each crop of birds. Deep litter also has value as manure. For cattle, straw, shavings, and sawdust form a deep litter. Warmth is given off as faeces in the litter ferment, and additions of fresh litter can be made on top of the old. Deep-litter systems can improve animal welfare and farm hygiene. Farmers should manage deep litter by regularly adding fresh material and monitoring moisture levels to prevent the buildup of harmful pathogens. The resulting composted litter can be used as a valuable fertilizer, enhancing soil health and reducing waste.