Keep the distance–social stress in chickens and its consequences for the immune system

Abstract

SUMMARY: In poultry production, chickens are exposed to a variety of potential stressors that can compromise their welfare and health by modulating their immune system. A fully functional immune system is crucial not only for maintaining chicken health and welfare, but also for ensuring high productivity and product quality. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current research on the effects of social stressors on the immune system in chickens. These stressors, which arise from interactions with conspecifics, include overcrowding (high stocking densities), social instability (disruptions in social hierarchies), social defeat or subordination (dominance position), and social isolation. It also points out potential mechanisms and interactions underlying these effects.