Torn Comb

[TJ D]

Hello, new here but not brand new to raising chickens. One of my Buffs has recently torn her comb half off. I have seen some other posts here that talk about “dubbing” or cutting the comb. I am unsure how to go about this or where exactly to cut? Is there any harm in just leaving the way it is. I have read they need it to regulate their heat and I live somewhere where it is quite hot in the summer months. Thanks in advance for any input.

 

[Egg Snatcher]

Dubbing is an easy process to do. You first cut the back of the comb with the angle of the head then you start cutting at the front of the head to the back. You can cut it down to the head or follow a line that runs in the comb.
Your hen will be fine without her comb being dubed. Her comb should heal up just fine.

 

[alinas2010]

Wait wait! Sometimes you can use an ointment sort of like glue and the comb can heal! Idk what the case or circumstances are, but I’ve seen it talked about by one of the educators. It might be worth a shot, I will tag them. If not, then dub away.

Also, welcome!

@Wyorp Rock @Eggcessive @azygous

 

[Eggcessive]

Is she shaking her head at all? That can cause more bleeding. I haven’t experienced a comb injury like this, but some people trim the loose part of the comb with the sharpest scissors you have. Ice can help with bleeding or pain. I would read some articles before attempting this. @azygous does recommend using Neosporin to glue a skin flap down. But with a loose part of the comb, I’m not sure that will work.

 

[azygous]

There are two ways to treat a comb that has been scalped. If you catch it right after it happens you can clean it well to remove all bacteria and then "glue" it back to the scalp with triple antibiotic ointment, then spread the ointment over the top to hold it down.

But you cannot do this if the scalp and torn comb have dried out or turned black. That tissue is nonviable. You will need to trim it. You must do this or the chickens will tear it all the way off. This is a very simple and safe procedure.

Ice the comb. This will reduce the pain and bleeding. If you have styptic powder put that on after you trim the comb. Or use sugar or corn starch to curb the bleeding.

Use sharp scissors and trim as much of the comb as possible that has turned black. People do this to combs all the time for many reasons. It will heal very quickly, and the pain will subside in a few hours. The chicken can handle it.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

One of my Buffs has recently torn her comb half off.

Welcome To BYC

The injury looks at least a day or more old and she's already started scabbing over and healing up. May have even taken a dust bath from what I can see.

I would not dub, the comb is not hanging in her eyes.