Broad Breasted Male Help

[PineyFlats]

Hello,

We have a 1 year old male broad breasted turkey who got far too big. He has since stopped walking much if at all. He has developed black (bruise-like)places on the back of his legs where his weight sits when he lays down. He has stopped leaving the coop and stopped eating unless you hand feed him, and because of this, has lost a lot of weight. Otherwise, he seems quite happy and content. I know he probably does not have much longer with us, but is there anything I can do to make him more comfortable or help heal the black spots on the back of his joints for more comfort. We are afraid it is an infection and there is no vet anywhere near us who would see him or help.

 

[R2elk]

Hello,

We have a 1 year old male broad breasted turkey who got far too big. He has since stopped walking much if at all. He has developed black (bruise-like)places on the back of his legs where his weight sits when he lays down. He has stopped leaving the coop and stopped eating unless you hand feed him, and because of this, has lost a lot of weight. Otherwise, he seems quite happy and content. I know he probably does not have much longer with us, but is there anything I can do to make him more comfortable or help heal the black spots on the back of his joints for more comfort. We are afraid it is an infection and there is no vet anywhere near us who would see him or help.

Switch his feed to a low protein maintenance feed such as Purina's Game Bird Maintenance which is 12.5% protein.

Take him for walks to make sure he is getting exercise.

I would not worry about the black spots. You may want to be concerned about the condition of his heart.

 

[HalosHaven]

Switch his feed to a low protein maintenance feed such as Purina's Game Bird Maintenancr which is 12.5% protein.

Take him for walks to make sure he is getting exercise.

I would not worry about the black spots. You may want to be concerned about the condition of his heart.

I have a 14 month old BBW that I've had since he was days old. I agree with the others that he needs a lower protein feed. You might also try limiting his commercial feed to a smaller amount, divided up, twice per day. The BBs can't really have unlimited free-choice commercial feed. My guy gets 2/3 cup, morning and night. I supplement with fresh greens. He also goes on daily walks with me. I'd also be sure his nesting spot has deep, fresh bedding to cushion his legs while he's laying down. Good luck.