2 min readfrom Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

To cull or keep trying?

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In the whimsical world of chicken care, we often find ourselves faced with tough decisions about our feathered friends. The heart-wrenching dilemma of whether to cull or keep trying with our beloved rooster, who has developed severe bumblefoot, weighs heavily on any chicken enthusiast. This gentle giant, a loner by nature, has always brought joy to our lives, but his persistent limp and worsening condition raise concerns for his well-being. Despite diligent care—Epsom soaks, wraps, and attempts to remove dead tissue—the infection has advanced to a point that feels overwhelming. Have you navigated this tricky terrain before? If so, your insights on saving his precious feet would be invaluable.

This question is rather simple, though I am looking for a bit more information from those who have dealt with or successfully treated severe bumblefoot. We have a sweet, large rooster who has always been a loner and kicked out by other roosters. I spend time with him, he hangs on our deck, etc. He injured his foot quite a while ago, and has had a slight limp ever since. But he’s been healthy otherwise. Bumblefoot has set in, and become quite bad. I’ve been doing epsom soaks, vetericyn spray, PRID + wrap. Today I did a soak and attempted to remove some of the black dead tissue. Due to the placement - toes, ankle - it was not successful. There is not a “simple” scab to remove, but rather built up, tough black tissue. It seems a scalpel would be needed to remove the infection, not to mention he now has many infected toes. This no longer seems humane, and I love this special guy so much and will not allow further suffering. Has anyone dealt with this level and placement of bumblefoot before? If so, is there any way to save the feet? I have two wounds I opened up packed with Iodine/sugar.

Thanks in advance for any insight.

Chickens are free range on a couple of acres, and are cooped at night. He’s been chased a lot, which I believe has contributed to the progression.

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#chickens#fear of chickens#bumblefoot#severe#infection#rooster#toes#epsom soaks#vetericyn spray#ankle#humane#suffering#PRID#black dead tissue#wounds#free range#treatment#Iodine/sugar#cooped#chased