Roost Solution for Rooster with Foot Issues?

[Anon112]

My rooster Poppy had to have a toe amputated back this back April. I've noticed that it's impacted his ability to grip the roost, and with it being colder now (and possibly the harder ground being rougher on that foot), he's having some issues on the roost. Nothing terrible, but things like turning around are hard for him, and once or twice he's lost his balance and fallen off.

I'd like to give him a better roost. Currently they are perching on a board in the run, probably about 1.5 inches across. I was thinking of giving them a more horizontal surface, something like a 4 inch board with a rounded edge so that their toes can still naturally curl.

Thoughts? I feel like with more surface area he will be more comfortable and safer.

Does anyone have experience accommodating a chicken with foot issues?

 

[fldiver97]

I think your plan is good. Early on in my chicken journey I replaced any round and any narrow roosts with 2x4s, lightly sanded the edges. In winter it allows the chickens to roost and cover their feet, my chicken with bumble foot got better and didn’t have further issues. The only place I use thick branches is in the run for entertainment.

 

[Yardmom]

Some people use 2×4 with the "4" side up for roosting. The birds don't necessarily curl their toes around the edge.

 

[Anon112]

I think your plan is good. Early on in my chicken journey I replaced any round and any narrow roosts with 2x4s, lightly sanded the edges. In winter it allows the chickens to roost and cover their feet, my chicken with bumble foot got better and didn’t have further issues. The only place I use thick branches is in the run for entertainment.

Okay, that's good to hear.

Some people use 2×4 with the "4" side up for roosting. The birds don't necessarily curl their toes around the edge.

Okay, thanks! I wasn't sure if they needed to be able to have that grip or if sleeping with their feet flat would be bad for them in the long term. (I mean, as I'm typing this it occurs to me that a brooding hen sleeps "on the ground" for almost a month . . . )

Thanks, ya'll!