Tips to Avoid Bumblefoot

As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It’s always better to prevent bumblefoot than to be stuck treating this potentially serious disease. Once it begins, bumblefoot can be time-consuming to treat and take weeks to months to resolve. Additionally, some patients will have chronic problems secondary to bumblefoot and attempting to avoid this situation will leave a backyard chicken-keeper happier with their flock.

• Perches for chickens should be variable in their size and thickness so that birds don’t have to put pressure on the same part of their foot all the time. These perches should also be routinely inspected for splinters or damage and have any issues addressed immediately.

• Wrapping perches with protective covering, such as a self-adhesive bandage, can also provide a softer surface for the bird’s foot to contact.

• Chickens should be prevented from perching on wires or objects that provide minimal support for the foot.

• Make sure perches are no more than 21⁄2 feet off of the ground and the substrate that they are standing on is soft, clean and appropriate.

• Lastly, providing appropriate nutrition and being mindful of trauma to the feet are necessary to avoid bumblefoot from occurring.