Expert bumblefoot care for your chickens — from home

Bumblefoot (plantar pododermatitis) is a serious bacterial infection: What is Bumblefoot? • Bacterial infection of the foot pad • Usually caused by Staphylococcus bacteria • Can affect one or both feet • Progressive condition if untreated Common Causes: • Sharp objects in coop or run • Hard landing surfaces • Poor sanitation • Obesity or excessive weight • Vitamin A deficiency • Poor quality perches

Early detection is crucial for successful treatment: Early Signs: • Limping or favoring one foot • Small black scab on footpad • Mild redness or swelling • Slight warmth in affected area Advanced Symptoms: • Significant swelling of foot • Large, dark scabs • Obvious pain when walking • Reduced activity • Loss of appetite • Infected tissue or abscess • Difficulty perching

Our veterinary team provides comprehensive bumblefoot care: 1. Professional Assessment • Evaluation of infection stage • Determination of severity • Review of contributing factors • Development of treatment plan 2. Treatment Guidance We provide detailed instructions for: • Proper foot soaking techniques • Wound cleaning protocols • Bandaging methods • Antibiotic administration • Post-treatment care 3. Ongoing Support • Regular progress monitoring • Treatment adjustments as needed • Prevention strategies • Recovery timeline expectations 4. Environmental Modifications • Coop improvement recommendations • Perch modifications • Sanitation protocols • Risk factor reduction

Essential care practices for managing bumblefoot: 1. Daily Care Requirements • Clean, dry environment • Proper bandage maintenance • Regular medication administration • Activity level monitoring 2. Treatment Procedures • Warm water soaks • Gentle cleaning of affected area • Application of prescribed medications • Proper bandaging techniques 3. Environmental Adjustments • Softer perching areas • Clean, dry bedding • Removal of sharp objects • Improved sanitation 4. Recovery Support • Proper nutrition • Stress reduction • Limited jumping/activity • Regular foot checks

Contact Telavets immediately if you notice: • Severe swelling or discoloration • Spreading infection • Foul odor from the wound • Bird stops eating or drinking • Extreme lethargy • Signs of systemic infection • Inability to stand or walk Early intervention is crucial for preventing complications. Our veterinarians can provide guidance on whether immediate surgical intervention is necessary.