roosters living with hens

[Lots A Cluckin]

yes you can...they are just like nails it does not hurt them unless you get to close to the quick (or so I have read) I have heard of several different ways to trim them...but they easiest way I have found is to take sand paper and just round them...you dont have to make them short just get that sharp point off...then when you think you got it good enough try to scratch yourself with them and if it does not hurt or leave a mark them they are rounded enough.

 

[cutechick2010]

I have actually used wire cutters to trim thick spurs on my roosters. It is like trimming nails, the spurs have a quick and if you cut them back to far they will bleed. Just cut off the sharp tip, and if you get any ragged points use sandpaper to smooth them out. You do have to do this as regular maintenance on adult roosters though, if you don't they can make some very nasty injuries to your hens. I had one lady that had to have stitches, she had a two inch long slice under her wing.

 

[Mykee]

I should probably do that soon; my rooster's are so long he trips over them.

 

[yo burrill]

Link to stripping the long shell off Roos Spurs.

 

[Mykee]

Thanks for the link! My roo's are so long they curl around, so not sure how it will work.

 

[yo burrill]

It does work for those too. The inner quick is only in the straight part of the spur. I cant find the better video of them using the hot potato method. That Roo had long curled spurs. The hot potato steams the hard shell softening it so it detaches from the leg easier. You do want to keep the roo separate for a few days after doing this though cause the hens will pick at the tender quick . I imagine it is a lot like when we break a nail way to short and it is very tender for a few weeks!! Good luck!!! I have never had to deal with long spurs my Roos dont stay around long enough usually.

 

[WalkingOnSunshine]

Link to stripping the long shell off Roos Spurs.

Yes, this. I do this to my boys and it works GREAT. I spray the spur stubs with BluKote afterwards. This really does shorten and dull spurs very well.