Nail Care

[TyWilk18]

Some of my hens have some pretty long toenails so I need to cut them down or let them be?

 

[Kelsie2290]

If they are long enough where they give the chicken problems or they aren't using the foot normally, I would trim them. How long are they, and do you know why they are not wearing them down? Usually chickens will keep their nails trimmed themselves via scratching around in the run/dirt, unless they have a problem with the toe or foot, or they are on a surface where they can't wear them down like wire or deep litter in the winter sometimes.

 

[Michael Apple]

There are sometimes a few that may need a trim now and then. I use a pair of medium size dog nail clippers. I then use a nail file to round the edges.Take small bits off at a time to avoid hitting the quick. It is always good to have some blood stop powder at your side before clipping. You can even give a good quality soluble powder vitamin in the waterers, with a substantial amount of vitamin K, a day or two before clipping.

 

[roostersandhens]

If they are long enough where they give the chicken problems or they aren't using the foot normally, I would trim them. How long are they, and do you know why they are not wearing them down? Usually chickens will keep their nails trimmed themselves via scratching around in the run/dirt, unless they have a problem with the toe or foot, or they are on a surface where they can't wear them down like wire or deep litter in the winter sometimes.

X2 I had to trim one of my hen's nails once, she was having trouble walking. I had rescued her from the side of the street, poor girl. But now I have advice it's REALLY easy to make them bleed!
Good Luck!

 

[roostersandhens]

There are sometimes a few that may need a trim now and then. I use a pair of medium size dog nail clippers. I then use a nail file to round the edges.Take small bits off at a time to avoid hitting the quick. It is always good to have some blood stop powder at your side before clipping. You can even give a good quality soluble powder vitamin in the waterers, with a substantial amount of vitamin K, a day or two before clipping.

I agree with this too!

 

[aart]

What does the vitamin K do for them?

 

[Michael Apple]

What does the vitamin K do for them?

It helps prevent excessive bleeding by helping in the creation of proteins to coagulate blood. It also helps form metabolic pathways in tissue and bone. Kale is a good example of a leafy green with a good amount of vitamin k, among other nutrients.