crooked toe at 9 weeks old?

[BarkerChickens]

A couple of my 9-week-olds are starting to have a toe (or two) bend outward when they walk around (roosting, etc the toes are normal). There toes were straight while in the brooder. Is this genetic or just something that happened (injury or long toenails)? Normally I wouldn't care, but one in particular is a roo that I was hoping to keep for breeding. This particular roo's two inside toes when he walks around. If it is genetic, obviously I wouldn't want to breed him. I am not sure if genetic crooked toes only shows up when they are really young or if it can pop up later in only a toe or two.

(That's why I come to ya'll who have more experience than I!

)

ETA the following link
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=9659
This a different post, but this is exactly what the toes are doing. The little roo has the inside toe on both feet turned just like the one in the picture. (NOTE: that is not my chicken, it is just a great reference thread).

 

[BarkerChickens]

anyone?

 

[cat]

If it looks like the one in the link you posted then I think it is a dislocation.

It happens quite easily if they are on the wrong beding or get caught in netting etc. There is a thread here on Ellie the chicken with the dislocated toe, if you read it I have tried to explain how to splint it.

If you are not sure, try turning the toe back straight. Do this gently and slowly, DO NOT FORCE the toe round if you feel resistance.

If the toe slips back into place it is a dislocation and you need to splint it for a week or two to let the ligaments strengthen and keep the toe in its proper place.

Hope this helps

 

[BarkerChickens]

I never thought of a dislocation. That makes sense if it is easy for it happen. They have been placed in their new coop and have been jumping up and down from the roosts. Well, they aren't so graceful yet, so that may have been what caused it. I am glad to hear that it may not be a genetic thing! One of the toe knuckles looks a little swollen, but I figured it was from walking on the toe funny. I will see if I can straighten it and splint the toe. Thanks so much!

If anyone else suspects genetics or something other than dislocation, please let me know!

I'd like to consider all possibilities that ya'll can offer.