How do I know if my chickens have bumblefoot?
Bumblefoot is a bacterial infection, causing inflammation and swollen feet; this can be caused by a wound on the footpad. The first thing to do is to check that the bedding is clean and dry, as if chickens are standing on wet and soiled bedding this can predispose them to bumblefoot (the ranging area should also be dry if the flock is confined to a pen). Ensure the perches are in good condition as these can easily cause injury to your hens feet if they are damaged. Bumblefoot can become quite serious so please seek advice from your vet if in any doubt as antibiotic treatment and bandaging may be required. If the wounds are small and do not appear deep or infected, soaking your chickens feet in warm water with a little antiseptic can help. Any affected chickens should be kept in a clean and dry environment until the feet have fully healed.