Hen lost a foot

[silversage03]

One of my Marans has lost her right foot, and I'm sure the left will be soon to follow. We had a severe cold snap here (temps to -35F) and she was the only one of my chickens who were effected. I feel bad for her, but she's eating and drinking well. The day I discovered that her foot fell off, I was a bit startled but not surprised. Both her feet had blackened completely, and seemed to be more of a hindrance to her as she roamed around the yard. The other chickens didn't bother her then, but now that she has such a different gait, the other hens go right after her. I've separated her into her own "apartment" with food and water, and she seems quite happy. I'll be moving her into our garage for the rest of the winter, and give her a private "yard" whenever the weather is nicer. Curious what others think about maintaining a chicken like this?

 

[Granny Hatchet]

geez, sorry to hear. how can she walk with only one foot? make her a fake one and strap it to her leg. if she loses both i would put her down.

 

[fintuckyfarms]

I had a hen that lost a foot to string. She lived for many years and did just fine . She did like to sleep in a 5 gallon bucket on the ground after that though.

 

[Eggcessive]

I think if you are willing to take care of a special needs chicken, that she may have a fair chance at making it as long as no infection sets in. Here is a thread about another similar chicken: https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/842760/frost-bitten-feet

 

[Granny Hatchet]

I think if you are willing to take care of a special needs chicken, that she may have a fair chance at making it as long as no infection sets in. Here is a thread about another similar chicken: https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/842760/frost-bitten-feet

that was gross and incredibly awesome at the same time.

 

[silversage03]

Thanks for that link Eggcessive!! That is exactly what her foot looked like. She's doing really well though. I let out for a few minutes on Tuesday, and what a difference! She walked around the coop as if nothing was wrong. I'll keep her separated for now, until everything is healed over. Then we'll see how she is and reevaluate. For now, she's definitely enjoying the extra attention and treats!

Thank you everyone for your posts and concern. I'm sure she must have roosted on the narrow roost on one of the colder nights. Wish I had seen TRChickenRanch's post sooner, but I'm glad her "Frosty" is doing so well.

 

[Granny Hatchet]

did she lose the other foot or do you think she will?