Ascites, or "water belly," is a common metabolic disorder in broiler chickens, especially during cooler months, caused by the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity due to heart failure. While often mistaken for a disease, it's a condition prevalent in fast-growing birds like broilers, which can quadruple their placement weight within seven days.

• The condition arises when the heart cannot pump enough blood, leading to pressure that forces fluid into the abdominal cavity, often exacerbated by farmer errors during cold seasons.
• Key factors contributing to ascites include chilling chicks below 21 degrees Celsius, fluctuating brooding temperatures, poor air quality with high ammonia levels (above 10 ppm), and general management stress.
• To prevent ascites, farmers should ensure consistent brooding temperatures above 21 degrees Celsius, maintain minimum ventilation, use permeable curtains, keep litter dry, and reduce stressors like high stocking density and inadequate feed and water.