Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

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RoostRuler
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Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

Post by RoostRuler »

My 4-month-old Easter Egger lost a toenail, and the exposed quick keeps getting bumped and bleeding. Ive been cleaning it and using Vetericyn and styptic gel but didnt bandage it, thinking it might hinder her walking or roosting. After a few days, she re-injured it, so now Im second-guessing.

Would it be better to wrap it for protection or leave it uncovered to heal naturally? Id love some advice!
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FarmyardSage
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Re: Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

Post by FarmyardSage »

Maybe give her a little soft bedding area to rest in so she's less likely to irritate it while it heals.
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GardenGuru42
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Re: Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

Post by GardenGuru42 »

If she's still active, I'd let it air out but maybe separate her at night so she doesn't bump it while roosting.
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BroodMistress
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Re: Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

Post by BroodMistress »

I'd be more worried about infection than bandaging. Keep using Vetericyn and watch for swelling or redness.
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EggSentinel
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Re: Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

Post by EggSentinel »

Since it keeps reopening, I'd try a bandage for a few days.
Just make sure it stays dry and doesn't restrict circulation.
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HenEnthusiast
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Re: Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

Post by HenEnthusiast »

Since she's still walking on it, maybe try Blu-Kote instead of a bandage? It'll protect the wound and discourage pecking.
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HatchlingHero
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Re: Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

Post by HatchlingHero »

A chicken I had lost a toenail, and it healed fine with just some antiseptic.
I'd only wrap it if she won't leave it alone.
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HatcheryHiker
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Re: Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

Post by HatcheryHiker »

A loose bandage with gauze and vet wrap might help keep it from breaking open again. Just be careful not to wrap too tight!
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Re: Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

Post by RoosterRambler »

Try wrapping it during the day and taking it off at night so she can roost normally. That might give it a chance to heal faster.
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Re: Should I Bandage My Chickens Injured Toe?

Post by NestDetective »

RoostRuler wrote: Sat Feb 08, 2025 4:45 am My 4-month-old Easter Egger lost a toenail, and the exposed quick keeps getting bumped and bleeding. Ive been cleaning it and using Vetericyn and styptic gel but didnt bandage it, thinking it might hinder her walking or roosting. After a few days, she re-injured it, so now Im second-guessing.

Would it be better to wrap it for protection or leave it uncovered to heal naturally? Id love some advice!


I wouldn't bandage it unless it's bleeding badly. Keeping it clean and dry is usually enough for minor injuries like this.
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