can hens have spurs?

[stormrobin]

I have a barred rock hen that looks like she is getting spur bumps. Is that possible?

 

[Chickassan]

Yep.

 

[stormrobin]

Yep.

Does it cause issues at all? Any idea why it happens? It's kinda cool.

 

[getaclue]

Yes, they can get spurs, and nope it doesn't normally cause issues. I use a Dremel, and keep all my bird's toenails, and spurs trimmed.

 

[Chickassan]

Nah,no issues and I'm only guessing here it probably has to do with the testosterone in the hen.Ive seen some very large spurs on a lady.

Does it cause issues at all? Any idea why it happens? It's kinda cool.

 

[sourland]

All chickens have spur bumps. Sometimes some hens develop them into full blown spurs. It causes no issues with them.

 

[stormrobin]

Yes, they can get spurs, and nope it doesn't normally cause issues. I use a Dremel, and keep all my bird's toenails, and spurs trimmed.

How do you keep them trimmed? I have two roosters one is getting pretty big bumps but aren't sharp yet. How short do you keep them? So far toe nails are pretty good.

 

[stormrobin]

All chickens have spur bumps. Sometimes some hens develop them into full blown spurs. It causes no issues with them.

Oh ok. Hers are just really noticeable compared to everyone else's.

 

[getaclue]

Chickens have a quick in their toenails, and spurs, just like people have a quick in their fingernails. Usually you can see the quick. I use the Dremel, and grind them down, a bit at a time, dipping their foot in water to cool it as needed. The grinding does get the nail very hot, so don't burn them. Some people use the cutting tool on the Dremel, saying it cuts, and cauterizes at the same time. Cutting into the quick, hurts them, and I don't like my birds being hurt, unless it's necessary.

 

[stormrobin]

Chickens have a quick in their toenails, and spurs, just like people have a quick in their fingernails. Usually you can see the quick. I use the Dremel, and grind them down, a bit at a time, dipping their foot in water to cool it as needed. The grinding does get the nail very hot, so don't burn them. Some people use the cutting tool on the Dremel, saying it cuts, and cauterizes at the same time. Cutting into the quick, hurts them, and I don't like my birds being hurt, unless it's necessary.

I would rather not hurt my chickens either. Thank you.