To cut or not to cut. That is the question…

[Chicken0223]

We’ve had to do bumble foot surgery on chickens before, however, usually they have the telltale Black scab on the bottom of their foot so we’re able to soak the foot to pull the scab off and squeeze it out. This one’s a little bit more tricky because there is no black scab. Any advice on whether we should cut the top open and drain? Or take a watch and see approach? A vet visit is not an option. She’s eating, drinking and otherwise acting normal. Any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[6BeachChicks]

That looks like a video I saw where they did cut, and pulled out tons of gunk. I am leaning toward cutting.

 

[Crazy Maizie]

I'd soak for a few days in Epsom salts and see what happens. I would never just cut it open without softening the area first.

 

[WhySayWhat]

Soak, soak, soak...I'd call around to local vets to see if anyone works with chickens. The infection looks higher up in the foot than bumblefoot and id be worried about cutting a nerve or something. There appears to be a weak spot near the top of the foot though, if you must lance, that's probably the "best" spot where the infection is closest to the surface already.