Chick with a leg problem!

[Haley1296]

I incubated and hatched some chicks. My chicks are 2 days old and all overall are healthy. I do however have one chick that has a leg problem. It seems to get around but walks funny and will flip over on its back, then has trouble rolling back over. I've never had an issue like this. Is there anything I can do to help this chick or will it just grow out of it? Here is a picture of my chick.

 

[Alaskan]

No...it will not grow out of it...

Look up spraddle leg in chicks

You will need to hobble the legs together.

It also looks like that chick has curled toes. Curled toes need to be taped flat. Think little shoes.

I like using painter's tape (that blue stuff) to tape the feet flat. It has enough stick to get the toes flat, but not too sticky, so you can peel it off when done. It is also a bit rough on the bottom....so the chick has some grip when moving around.

Good luck!

 

[Haley1296]

Thank you for your help! I did some research and did everything you said. It kept flipping over on its back but I figured it will take some time and patience with some assistance. Thank you again!

No...it will not grow out of it...

Look up spraddle leg in chicks

You will need to hobble the legs together.

It also looks like that chick has curled toes. Curled toes need to be taped flat. Think little shoes.

I like using painter's tape (that blue stuff) to tape the feet flat. It has enough stick to get the toes flat, but not too sticky, so you can peel it off when done. It is also a bit rough on the bottom....so the chick has some grip when moving around.

Good luck!

 

[Alaskan]

It is super difficult for them to walk when they are hobbled.

Check every day to make sure the hobble isn't too tight and cutting off circulation.

Hopefully in 2 days, 3 at the most, he should be fine.

You will probably need to help him eat and drink.