Chicken Health: Foot Problems

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.