Chick with deformed toe, can I correct it?

Silkies4everr

In the Brooder
Sep 21, 2024
18
4
17
This chick hatched yesterday after being helped out since it got stuck to it's shell. It hatched out with the toe like this, I waited until today to get pictures to give it a chance to fluff up and heal it's yolk sac a bit. The toe appears to be folded under the foot. I haven't ever had a chick with a toe like this, only some chicks with crooked toes in the past. I was thinking that maybe the toe could be put into normal position and wrapped so that it can sort of grow into the normal toe place, not sure if that would work though. Any tips?
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congrats for hatching a chick!​

1. Assess the Toe

  • Check for Pain: Gently examine the toe to ensure it’s not broken or injured. If the chick seems in pain when you touch it, it may require more careful handling.

2. Correcting the Position

  • Gentle Realignment: If the toe is simply folded under, you can try to gently realign it to its normal position. Be very gentle to avoid causing any pain or further injury.

3. Wrapping the Toe

  • Use Soft Material: You can use a small piece of soft fabric or medical tape to wrap the toe in the corrected position. Make sure it’s not too tight, as this could restrict blood flow.
  • Support the Foot: You might consider using a small piece of cardboard or a soft material to create a splint that holds the toe in place while allowing the chick to move around.

4. Monitoring

  • Check Regularly: Monitor the toe daily to see if it’s improving or if there are any signs of infection (swelling, redness, or discharge).
  • Adjust Wrapping: If the wrapping seems to be too tight or causing discomfort, adjust it accordingly.

5. Encourage Movement

  • Provide Space: Make sure the chick has enough space to move around. This can help strengthen its legs and toes as it grows.

6. Consult a Vet

  • If the toe doesn’t improve or if you notice any other concerning symptoms, it’s best to consult a vet who specializes in poultry. They can provide more tailored advice and treatment options.

Your idea of wrapping the toe to encourage proper growth is a good approach. With gentle care and monitoring, there's a good chance the toe can heal properly. If you have any further questions or need more assistance, feel free to ask!
 
This chick hatched yesterday after being helped out since it got stuck to it's shell. It hatched out with the toe like this, I waited until today to get pictures to give it a chance to fluff up and heal it's yolk sac a bit. The toe appears to be folded under the foot. I haven't ever had a chick with a toe like this, only some chicks with crooked toes in the past. I was thinking that maybe the toe could be put into normal position and wrapped so that it can sort of grow into the normal toe place, not sure if that would work though. Any tips?
View attachment 3988582View attachment 3988583View attachment 3988584
I would try to tape the foot flat to see if it can be corrected, you have a good chance since she's so newly hatched.
A few ideas are in the 2 links below.

I'd also give her 1/4 tablet B-Complex daily to help with leg health and give her a bit of boost.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...s-with-tape-picture-tutorial-and-video.75247/

https://the-chicken-chick.com/spraddle-leg-in-baby-chicks-what-is-it/
 

congrats for hatching a chick!​

1. Assess the Toe

  • Check for Pain: Gently examine the toe to ensure it’s not broken or injured. If the chick seems in pain when you touch it, it may require more careful handling.

2. Correcting the Position

  • Gentle Realignment: If the toe is simply folded under, you can try to gently realign it to its normal position. Be very gentle to avoid causing any pain or further injury.

3. Wrapping the Toe

  • Use Soft Material: You can use a small piece of soft fabric or medical tape to wrap the toe in the corrected position. Make sure it’s not too tight, as this could restrict blood flow.
  • Support the Foot: You might consider using a small piece of cardboard or a soft material to create a splint that holds the toe in place while allowing the chick to move around.

4. Monitoring

  • Check Regularly: Monitor the toe daily to see if it’s improving or if there are any signs of infection (swelling, redness, or discharge).
  • Adjust Wrapping: If the wrapping seems to be too tight or causing discomfort, adjust it accordingly.

5. Encourage Movement

  • Provide Space: Make sure the chick has enough space to move around. This can help strengthen its legs and toes as it grows.

6. Consult a Vet

  • If the toe doesn’t improve or if you notice any other concerning symptoms, it’s best to consult a vet who specializes in poultry. They can provide more tailored advice and treatment options.

Your idea of wrapping the toe to encourage proper growth is a good approach. With gentle care and monitoring, there's a good chance the toe can heal properly. If you have any further questions or need more assistance, feel free to ask!
Okay thank you!
 

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