Lucas Delgado
There are several reasons why a chicken might lose its ability to walk. The most common cause is a shelled egg high in the oviduct, pinching the nerves radiating to the legs. This can be treated by placing the chicken in a warm, humid environment until it lays the egg. Other causes include injury, vitamin deficiency, and various illnesses, such as Marek's disease, aflatoxicosis, and mycoplasma synoviae. In some cases, chickens may have difficulty walking due to long nails or a condition called kinky back, caused by hereditary factors or feed. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the specific cause and receive appropriate treatment.
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What You'll Learn
Eggbound
Egg binding, also known as oviduct impaction, occurs when an egg gets stuck in the chicken's cloaca and is unable to be laid. This can quickly become a serious issue, as the chicken will be unable to defecate, which can lead to constipation and infection. If left untreated, a chicken can go into shock and die.
Egg binding is often characterised by a sudden onset of symptoms. A chicken owner should suspect egg binding if they notice their chicken behaving lethargically, with eyes closed and puffed up. The chicken may also be exhibiting waddling, a slumped tail, and a lack of appetite or interest in drinking. The chicken may also be straining its vent and drooping its wings.
If a chicken owner suspects egg binding, they should act quickly. Firstly, they should isolate the chicken in a quarantine area. Then, they can try some non-invasive treatment options. One option is to use warm water soaks, with the water being deep enough to submerge the chicken's vent. The water should be around 75-80°F and include a cup of Epsom salts. The chicken should be soaked for 15-30 minutes, then dried off gently with a towel and kept in a warm location. This process can be repeated in one-hour increments if there is no improvement. In conjunction with the warm water soaks, the chicken's abdomen can be gently massaged to help it pass the egg.
Another treatment option is to give the chicken calcium supplements, as a lack of calcium is often a cause of egg binding. Half a human calcium tablet or Tums can be given orally. The chicken should then be kept in a warm, humid environment until it passes the egg.
If these treatments do not work, there may be a more serious underlying issue. In these cases, it is recommended to seek veterinary care.
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Marek's disease or other bacterial/viral illnesses
Marek's disease is a viral illness caused by a herpes virus that affects chickens. It is contracted by inhaling virus-laden dander, and once infected, a chicken will remain infected for life. The virus causes inflammation and tumors in the nerves, spinal column, and brain, leading to paralysis in the legs or wings. The illness can affect chickens of any age, but it is more commonly seen in birds between 6 and 30 weeks old. The percentage of illness and death in a flock can vary from 1% to 50%, depending on the virus strain and the breed of bird. Leghorns and light egg-type breeds are more vulnerable to Marek's disease, while Silkies are highly susceptible.
In addition to Marek's disease, there are several other bacterial and viral illnesses that can affect a chicken's ability to walk. These illnesses can cause a range of symptoms, including lack of coordination, staggering, and paralysis. Here are some of the most common bacterial and viral illnesses in chickens:
- Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG): This is a peculiar bacterial-like organism that can cause chronic respiratory disease (CRD), air sac syndrome, and infectious sinusitis in chickens. CRD typically causes mild respiratory issues and reduced egg production, while air sac syndrome and infectious sinusitis can lead to high mortality rates in young birds.
- E. coli bacteria: This bacterium can cause acute septicemia, resulting in high mortality rates, especially in young turkeys and chickens. The toxins produced by E. coli as it grows and multiplies can lead to respiratory and gastrointestinal problems.
- Clostridium colinum: This bacterium causes ulcerative enteritis, an acute or chronic infection that spreads through the droppings of sick or carrier birds. It can cause sudden death in young quail or pullets and emaciation in chronically affected birds.
- Avian Encephalomyelitis: This viral illness causes neurological symptoms such as loss of coordination, inability to stand, head shaking, and other issues.
- Botulism: This type of food poisoning can be caused by consuming overripe or rotten fruits and vegetables. It can lead to paralysis of the limbs and neck, tremors, and torticollis.
- Fowl typhoid: This bacterial infection can cause lesions and stupor, loss of appetite, rapid weight loss, lameness, swollen wattles, difficult breathing, and diarrhea.
It is important to note that the information provided here is not exhaustive, and there may be other bacterial or viral illnesses that can affect a chicken's ability to walk. If you suspect that your chicken is unwell, it is always best to seek the advice of a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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Long nails or Scaly Leg Mite infestation
Long Nails
Long nails in chickens can be caused by a lack of outdoor activity, as they are unable to scratch in the dirt and naturally wear them down. Cage-raised chickens or those raised in runs with softer bedding may develop long nails that affect their ability to walk. Older or less active chickens are also more prone to overgrown nails. Nails that are too long may need to be trimmed over a few weeks.
To trim a chicken's nails, first ensure that the nails are clean and determine where the quick is by looking at the nail in the light. Then, cut the nail, being careful not to cut into the quick, as this will cause bleeding. If you do cut into the quick, you can stop the bleeding by dipping the chicken's foot into flour, cornstarch, or styptic powder, or by using a styptic pencil. Apply pressure for one minute and check if the bleeding has stopped. If not, apply pressure for another minute and repeat until the bleeding stops. After trimming, sanitise the nail clippers with rubbing alcohol.
Scaly Leg Mite Infestation
Scaly leg mites (Knemidocoptes mutans) are microscopic insects that live underneath the scales on a chicken's lower legs and feet. They burrow tunnels under the cornified epidermis of the chicken's skin, causing hyperkeratotic lesions, thickened and scaly skin, raised non-uniform scales, white crusting, and seepage of tissue fluid. This condition is very irritating and painful for the bird. If left untreated, it can lead to necrosis of the toes, lameness, and deformation of the legs and feet.
To treat scaly leg mites, one method is to dip the affected legs in gasoline, allow them to dry, and then slather the legs with A&D ointment. This process can be repeated over several days. Another option is to dip the feet and legs in oil (linseed, mineral, olive, or vegetable), which suffocates the mites, and then wipe off the oil and apply petroleum jelly to the affected area. This process may need to be repeated several times a week for several months. Additionally, a mixture of sulfur powder and petroleum jelly can be applied daily for at least two weeks as an alternative treatment. In severe cases, oral or injectable forms of Ivermectin may be prescribed by a veterinarian.
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Bumblefoot
The entry point for bacteria can be a cut, scrape, injury, or breakdown of the skin from walking on wet, dirty bedding. Injuries can result from a splintered roost, repetitive heavy landings from heights, long toenails, or rough or stony ground. Concrete or wire flooring can also cause bumblefoot due to the abrasive nature of these materials.
Vitamin A and vitamin E/selenium deficiencies can also increase the likelihood of bumblefoot infections, as they cause weakened, flaky skin, and neurological problems, respectively. Obesity is another risk factor, as it can lead to repetitive heavy landings.
To prevent and treat bumblefoot, it is important to protect your chicken's feet and treat any foot and leg injuries promptly. Regular foot inspections are recommended to detect infections early.
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Kinky Back
While the exact cause of Kinky Back in chickens is not fully understood, it is believed that genetics play a significant role. In some cases, the condition may be present at birth, while in others, it may develop over time due to factors such as nutrition or injury. Providing a varied and nutritious diet, including high-protein foods, can help improve the condition.
Symptoms of Kinky Back include difficulty walking, loss of balance, and the use of wings for balance. If you suspect your chicken is suffering from Kinky Back, it is important to consult with a veterinarian, as they can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the best course of treatment.
Treatment options for Kinky Back may include nutritional supplements, antibiotics, and pain management medications. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to correct the slipped vertebrae. Providing a warm and humid environment, such as a heated bathroom, can also help ease the chicken's discomfort and encourage egg-laying, which may improve mobility.
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