Leg Amputation

Bawkandbasil

In the Brooder
Apr 3, 2025
2
10
14
About 6 days ago one of my 12 week old pullets had a leg amputated above the ankle by something. We cleaned it with chlorhexidine and applied a medicated bandage. She seems to be doing pretty well overall (eating and drinking, not running a fever, trilling when I hold her). She is on chicken safe gabapentin for the pain and is getting additional nutritional supplementation. However, she is pushing the leg she has remaining forward when she tries to stand, and doesn't seem to be able to get it under her. This is causing bruising on her remaining limb's ankle. I made her a sling which she acts comfortable in for a little while but then flaps her wings fairly aggressively, which makes me think she might be uncomfortable in it.
1. Does anyone have any recommendations on how to help rehab her?
2. Is this action normal for a recent amputee?
 
Last edited:
I know you are trying to do whatever is best for your pet chick.
Maybe you can fashion a peg prosthetic thing, so chick can stand, on it, and not hurt bottom of leg. It would have to have soft cushion on inside bottom.
I will tag @CCsGarden . see if she has any suggestions for your chick.

WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, :hugs
 
Hi,

I've read a few stories about one-legged chickens, and they get along fine as they learn to hop.

Perhaps you can fashion something to make a boot on the stump to prevent it from getting hurt, like a small sock. If you have no such thing and there's a Goodwill near you, they more than likely would have some infant socks or booties that might work.

Eventually, she's going to have to learn to hop on one leg and not use that, and I'm sure she will.
 

New posts New threads Active threads

Back
Top Bottom