Bitter Apple Spray to Stop Pecking

[mylilchix]

I have a hen who has been loosing tail feathers. I'm planning to get some Blue Kote to see if that helps, but in the meantime I was wondering if I could spray some bitter apple on her tail feathers? We have some for the dogs. Is it safe for chickens?

Thanks,
Sonja

 

[PAULA SCERBO]

Is there a safe bitter to spray on chickens to stop pecking. I use blue kote but I need a back up.

 

[Eggcessive]

Welcome to BYC. That is probably safe for chickens, but you could also try Vicks or coal tar, a horse hoof treatment. Those taste bad, so they might work.

Most chickens peck out feathers because they may be overcrowded, are not getting out of the coop to roam around, or are not getting enough protein in the diet. Feeding a complete poultry feed with 16 to 20% protein is best.

 

[chickens really]

Blu-Kote isn't a feather pecking deterrent. It just covers wounds so no blood shows and actually wasn't designed to be used on Poultry.
Vaseline put on thickly will sometimes work. A protein deficiency or space issue can be a cause. Also breeds sometimes don't get along well either.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

I have a hen who has been loosing tail feathers. I'm planning to get some Blue Kote to see if that helps, but in the meantime I was wondering if I could spray some bitter apple on her tail feathers? We have some for the dogs. Is it safe for chickens?

Thanks,
Sonja

Hi Sonja

How old is your hen?
Is the feather loss due to molting or feather picking?

If you have feathering picking going on, then you can try the products as suggested previously, but long-term - evaluate your space and feed.

If you have photos you wish to share with us, that would be great