Hey everyone! 👋
Bumblefoot is a common but serious foot infection in chickens, usually caused by a small cut or scrape that gets infected. If left untreated, it can cause pain, limping, and even severe infections.
🐔 How to Identify Bumblefoot
🔹 Swollen footpad with a dark scab in the center
🔹 Limping or reluctance to walk
🔹 Heat or redness in the affected foot
🩹 Step-by-Step Treatment for Bumblefoot
✅ 1. Soak the Foot 🛁
- Fill a container with warm water & Epsom salt.
- Soak the foot for 10-15 minutes to soften the scab.
✅ 2. Remove the Infection 🏥
- Use gloves & sanitized tweezers to gently peel away the scab.
- If there’s pus or a hardened “kernel,” carefully remove it.
- Avoid making a deep cut—only remove what comes loose easily!
✅ 3. Disinfect the Wound 💊
- Flush with hydrogen peroxide, iodine, or Vetericyn spray.
- Apply antibiotic ointment (NO painkillers like Neosporin with "caine" ingredients—they are toxic to chickens).
✅ 4. Bandage & Protect the Foot 🩹
- Place a clean gauze pad over the wound.
- Wrap with vet wrap or medical tape, making sure it’s snug but not too tight.
- Keep the hen in a clean, dry area for a few days while she heals.
✅ 5. Monitor & Change Bandages Daily 🔄
- Check for signs of healing or infection (swelling, bad smell = infection).
- Change bandages once a day until the wound is closed.
🛑 When to See a Vet
- If the infection is deep and won’t heal, a vet may need to prescribe antibiotics.
- Severe cases might require surgical removal of the infection.
🚧 How to Prevent Bumblefoot
🐔 Keep coop flooring clean & dry – Wet, dirty bedding increases risk.
🪵 Use soft perches – Rough wood or sharp wire can cause foot injuries.
🔍 Check feet regularly – Catching it early makes treatment easier!
💬 Have you treated bumblefoot before? What method worked best for you? Drop your experiences below! 📸👇🐔🦶
