ripped comb

[TW13]

Hi everyone! I am new to BYC forums so I hope I'm posting in the right area. I have a chicken with a large comb that she ripped half from her head. This happened awhile back and it healed up very well. She is fine but it didn't attach back all the way. So part of her comb flaps back and fourth and blocks part of her sight. I fell so bad for her. Would it be possible for a vet to cut half a comb off? Is the comb extremely tender? Even if it is possible. I wouldn't want to have it done if it was really painful for her. Has anyone else had this issue?

 

[beetandsteet]

Hi everyone! I am new to BYC forums so I hope I'm posting in the right area. I have a chicken with a large comb that she ripped half from her head. This happened awhile back and it healed up very well. She is fine but it didn't attach back all the way. So part of her comb flaps back and fourth and blocks part of her sight. I fell so bad for her. Would it be possible for a vet to cut half a comb off? Is the comb extremely tender? Even if it is possible. I wouldn't want to have it done if it was really painful for her. Has anyone else had this issue?

Yes, people do dub (remove the comb) sometimes to prevent frostbite, and for some breeds it is required to meet show requirements. I do believe that it is pretty painful for the bird, however. Some people consider it inhumane, especially since in most cases the bird is not given any anesthesia.
As far as the comb flapping back and forth, I wouldn't worry about it. Mediterranean breeds, like leghorns, have combs that naturally flop over and block some of their vision. If your hen seems to be able to function fine, I'd just leave the comb on--it keeps the bird cooler in the summer.