Limping in chickens can be caused by a myriad of factors including injuries, diseases, pests and other physiological factors. It is possible to prevent these issues and also deal with them when they occur. In this article, we take a close look at why your chickens might be limping, We will not stop there, we will also look at how to prevent leg problems and how to fix them when they occur.
My first experience with a limping chicken was shocking. It was my cockerel, second in command. At first, I ignored it as I thought the limping was a minor injury caused by the usual scuffles chickens go through day in and day out.
As each day passed, the limping got worse and the cockerel started secluding itself. At this point other chickens, even the young ones started attacking it. In chickendom, there is usually no place for weakness. After a week, the chicken stopped walking entirely and was dragging itself across the coop. I had to intervene.
Reasons Why Chickens Limp
- Injuries
- Bumblefoot
- Scaly mites
- Perosis
- Rickets
- Vitamin and mineral deficiency
- Diseases
Injuries
Injuries are a common cause of limping in chickens. A chicken’s legs and feet are exposed to a lot of stress and pressure every day, especially if they are free-ranging or kept in small, confined spaces. Injuries can be caused by rough terrain, predators, other chickens, or even the chicken keeper themselves. Injuries to the legs and feet can range from small cuts and bruises to more severe damage, such as broken bones.
Bumblefoot
One of the most common injuries that chickens suffer from is bumblefoot. Bumblefoot is a bacterial infection that affects the feet of chickens. It is caused by staphylococcus bacteria that enter the skin through a cut or a scratch on the foot. Bumblefoot can cause the foot to become swollen, red, and painful. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the bones, causing permanent damage to the foot.
Scaly Mites
Another common cause of limping in chickens is scaly mites. Scaly mites are tiny parasites that burrow under the scales of a chicken’s legs and feet. They cause the scales to become raised and crusty, and can also cause the skin to become inflamed and itchy. Scaly mites can cause a lot of discomfort and pain for the chicken, leading to limping and decreased mobility.
Perosis
Perosis is another condition that can cause limping in chickens. Perosis, also known as slipped tendon, is a condition that affects the joints and tendons in a chicken’s legs. It is caused by a deficiency of manganese, vitamin D, or other nutrients in the chicken’s diet. Perosis can cause the tendons to become weakened, leading to a slipping of the tendon and a dislocated joint. This condition can be extremely painful for the chicken and can cause them to limp or even become completely immobile.
Rickets
Rickets is another condition that can cause limping in chickens. Rickets is caused by a deficiency of vitamin D and calcium in a chicken’s diet. It can cause the bones to become weak and brittle, leading to fractures and deformities. Chickens that are kept indoors or in dark environments are more prone to developing rickets because they do not receive enough sunlight to produce vitamin D in their bodies.
Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can also cause limping in chickens. A lack of essential nutrients, such as vitamin E, vitamin B12, and selenium, can cause a range of health problems in chickens, including limping. A balanced and varied diet that includes a mix of grains, fruits, vegetables, and protein sources is essential for the overall health and well-being of chickens.
Diseases
Diseases can also cause limping in chickens. Some of the most common diseases that affect chickens include Marek’s disease, avian influenza, and coccidiosis. These diseases can cause a range of symptoms, including limping, lethargy, and loss of appetite. It is essential to keep chickens in a clean and hygienic environment to prevent the spread of disease.
Conclusion
Limping in chickens can have various causes, including injuries, diseases, pests, and nutritional deficiencies. As chicken keepers, it is our responsibility to identify and address these issues to ensure the health and well-being of our feathered friends.
Regularly inspecting chickens for signs of injury, such as cuts, bruises, and bumblefoot, is crucial in preventing and treating injuries. Scaly mites can be prevented by keeping the coop and run clean and well-maintained, while perosis and rickets can be avoided by providing chickens with a balanced and varied diet that includes essential vitamins and minerals.
In addition to nutrition and hygiene, it is also vital to be vigilant about diseases that can affect chickens. Proper biosecurity measures, such as keeping new chickens quarantined until they are deemed healthy, can prevent the spread of disease.
Ultimately, taking proactive steps to prevent and treat limping in chickens can ensure the happiness and health of our feathered companions. With a little bit of attention and care, we can keep our chickens healthy and happy, and enjoying the life they were meant to live.
