Frostbite on toes

[mtinney]

One of my hens has two discolored toes on one foot. She does put weight on it but often is standing on one foot. The toes do not have open sores. They are just greyish. Should I spray some hydrogel on them or leave her alone. I don’t want to make it worse.

 

[HappyClucker7]

Can you post a picture of the toes?
If it is frostbite, just leave it alone. Anything you put on it could freeze and make it worse.

 

[Eggcessive]

I would not put anything on the toes if she is kept outside in the coop. Could you post a picture of the feet? If you can bring them inside where it is warm, warm Epsom salts soaks might help.

 

[mtinney]

Can you post a picture of the toes?
If it is frostbite, just leave it alone. Anything you put on it could freeze and make it worse.

I will try tomorrow.

 

[mtinney]

Can you post a picture of the toes?
If it is frostbite, just leave it alone. Anything you put on it could freeze and make it worse.

Can you post a picture of the toes?
If it is frostbite, just leave it alone. Anything you put on it could freeze and make it worse.

 

[Eggcessive]

It looks like she may eventually lose her toe tips on that foot, but chickens can get around fairly normally once that happens. Here is a good article on frostbite prevention and treatment:
https://the-chicken-chick.com/frostbit-in-backyard-chickens-causes/

 

[mtinney]

Thank you for that article. The coop is dry but I think she sat on the edge of a metal water bowl and her toes may have gone in the water. I only use that watering system when it is too cold for them to go outside for their water.