Lameness associated with bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO) continues to be an important topic of great interest to global poultry production. Caused by bacterial infection of susceptible necrotic bone tissue, the disease severely affects animal health, welfare, and productivity, leading to significant economic losses annually. In recent years, the Kazakhstan poultry industry has enjoyed significant investment and strong growth, with goals of self-sufficiency within the decade. However, there remains a significant knowledge gap in poultry research in the nation, especially regarding the topic of BCO lameness. As such, this study aims to provide a preliminary evaluation of BCO lesion prevalence in different geographical regions of the country―namely Abai, Almaty, and Akmola. In each region, about 200 broilers from local poultry farms were procured, humanely euthanized, and necropsied to evaluate prevalence of femoral and tibial lesions commonly associated with BCO lameness. On average, most broilers had no damage to femoral head (78.17%) followed by femoral head separation (FHS, 11.94%), while the tibial head saw ubiquitous degrees of damage ranging from severe (71.42%) to observable (23.06%). These findings signify potential underlying issues connected to BCO lameness that will necessitate early management and intervention measures to prevent future spread of the disease.

In recent years, Kazakhstan has experienced steady growth in poultry production and increased poultry meat production, but the prevalence of lameness in broilers remains high. Lameness in broilers is one of the most urgent problems in the modern poultry industry, having a significant impact on the health and welfare of birds, as well as on the economic performance of production. The aim of this review article is to systematize data on causes, diagnosis, prevention and strategies to reduce lameness in broilers. Special attention is given to bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO), one of the major infectious causes of lameness caused by pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Both infectious and non-infectious factors are discussed: genetic predisposition, rapid growth, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, poor housing conditions, poor litter quality and high planting density. Modern diagnostic techniques, including bacteriological tests, histology, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and imaging technologies such as infrared thermography and computer vision are covered. Preventive measures including probiotics, vitamin and mineral supplements, vaccinations, genetic selection, and improved housing and biosecurity have also been analyzed. The prospect for future research aimed at the use of digital technologies, genomic analysis of pathogens and the development of disease-resistant broiler lines are considered. The review provides an up-to-date scientific and practical basis for specialists working in the field of veterinary medicine, zootechnics and industrial poultry production.

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.