Frost bite

[LCchickens71]

I’ve seen several recommendations in what to do for frost bite. Coconut oil, Vaseline, ointment. I need to do something. My coop is fairly warm with shavings, and sealed pretty well, with some ventilation. Any ideas would be much appreciated!

 

[AshVau22]

What's the current temperature where you live? Are you trying to prevent or treat frost bite? keep in mind that if temperatures are below freezing, Vaseline or jellies will also freeze.

 

[thecatumbrella]

I don’t put anything on combs. If you already have frostbite, DEFINITELY don’t put anything on it. Damage is done at that point and touching it will be painful for them.

Good ventilation, low humidity, and a dry coop are your best weapons against frostbite. A Sweeter Heater can help take the edge off birds with larger combs.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

Once you see evidence of frostbite, leave it alone, there is nothing you can do and handling combs and wattles will only increase the injury. Be sure your rooster can eat without having to stick his head in a port too small for his comb and wattles.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

You might need to increase your ventilation. Try to have one square foot per bird but make sure it is above their heads when they are at roost and wind cannot ruffle their feathers.

 

[rural mouse]

If you're looking at treating frostbite, the best thing is HANDS OFF. It's painful. You can dose any affected birds with pain medications, but DO NOT TOUCH the afflicted areas. Let it heal on its own. ANYTHING you do to the actual frostbitten area WILL hurt the bird and can hinder the healing process.

Instead, work on lowering the humidity in the coop/run. Humidity combined with cold temps is bad. Wind is also bad (windburn can also occur).