DIR Return Create A Forum - Home
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       Adopting Chicks
  HTML https://adoptingchicks.createaforum.com
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       *****************************************************
   DIR Return to: Medical Issues
       *****************************************************
       #Post#: 13--------------------------------------------------
       Chicken Health: Foot Problems
       By: AdoptingChicks Date: March 5, 2012, 8:36 am
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       Foot problems in chickens can lead to a lack of mobility and a
       problem with scratching for their food. Because foot problems
       are common among chickens, being aware of the issue and what it
       might take to fix it is an important part of raising chickens.
       Causes
       Most foot problems in chickens are caused through nutritional
       deficiencies and poor living environments. However, it is also
       important to remember that some chicken foot problems are due to
       genetics and to fast growth. Chickens that grow too fast end up
       putting more pressure on developing feet than they should.
       Similarly, scaly leg mites, which bore under the scales of the
       chicken, can cause lameness.
       Identification
       There are several ways to identify foot issues in a chicken.
       Observe it for some time and see if it is moving tenderly or
       even limping. It might have problems scratching the ground. Upon
       closer inspection, the foot may appear swollen, and, if constant
       irritation has occurred, there may be a scab on the foot pad.
       There may also be small cuts which can become infected.
       
       Prevention/Solution
       It is important to manage your chickens' environment in such a
       way as to prevent foot problems. Place a ramp between the roost
       and the ground, as a large drop to the ground can cause injury.
       Place the coop in a place that has some soft dirt, hay or grass
       for them to stand on, as standing on a hard floor can injure
       their feet. Use soft absorbent litter, old cloth towels or
       burlap in the brooding surfaces to prevent slipping and to
       provide traction. Feed your chickens on high-quality food and
       prevent crowding at feeders and water.
       
       Isolation
       When only one bird seems to be suffering from foot problems,
       isolate it. Keep it in a small pen with easy access to food and
       water, which will help limit its movements. In many cases, this
       will fix a limp caused by injury in about a week. A bird that
       has been isolated should not be returned to the flock until it
       is moving well.
       
       Warning
       Inspect your chickens for foot problems before you decide to
       breed them. Foot issues can be genetic, and breeding chickens
       that are prone to foot problems even in a good environment can
       mean that you are passing the trait on to future generations.
       Source:
  HTML http://www.ehow.com/about_6495287_chicken-health_-foot-problems.html
       *****************************************************