Nail trimming

[Country4ever]

My hens are 10 and 1/2 years old. One has nails that are very long and twisted. Is there a problem with leaving them that way? I've never clipped a chicken's nails before.........I probably could cut back to where it starts to twist? I don't think you can see the quick very easily. They are probably a little over 1" long. Any suggestions?

 

[Tmatthews]

I am far from a professional, but I had a hen who tended to grow long nails and they started to twist. I didn't notice it affecting her ability to walk normal, but at night when she was sleeping I did clip them back a little. I didn't do too much because like you said, it's hard to see the quick. The only think I had to use that was sharp and strong enough was trimmers I have for goat's hooves. That worked fine, but I'm sure not everyone has those in their inventory! haha Maybe someone on here with more know-how could offer you better advice.

 

[Country4ever]

Thanks Tmathews.
Actually, I was looking more closely at a couple of my other old hens and their nails are really long too! Maybe I should make an appointment for them at the spa?
Maybe as they get older, they don't scratch on the ground as much and their nails just grow and grow? I don't like to put them through too much anymore, since they're so old.....but I might be able to clip a little without too much disruption.
Thanks for your input!

 

[memphis]

I've used my dog nail trimmers on them before. I just wrapped them in towel like a burrito & trimmed a little at a time. I've also used my Dremmel which I also use on my dogs. If you grind them remember not to let the Dremmel stay in one spot too long because it can get hot.

 

[Tmatthews]

You are welcome Country4ever! If you take them to the spa I bet they would look good with French manicures! .