Scaly leg mites?

[Dimondel]

Hi there, just wanted to confirm if this is scaly leg mites or just a silkie x thing?

If it is, I know I should coat the legs in Vaseline, but how do I prevent the chook from pecking at it, messing it up or getting it dirty?

 

[All4Eggz]

Yes, it does look like what is likely the beginning of SLM.
Good to treat it early while it's not too severe.

Here is my article on Scaly Leg Mites.

TREATING SCALY LEG MITES (SLM) ~ WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

You lift your friendly hen and notice some odd-looking, lifted scales on her feet. She seems like she's in pain. What should you do? Your hen most likely has SLM. TREATING/CURING SCALY LEG MITES (SLM) My Crevecoeur hens' feet infected severely with SLM. - What are Scaly Leg Mites? Scaly...

• All4Eggz
• Feb 21, 2022
• 4.87 star(s) 23 ratings
• Comments: 32
• Reviews: 16
• Category: Injuries, Diseases, & Cures

Simply put, you have 3 effective options:
-Smother with Vaseline
-Smother with Vaseline (75%) and Betadine (25%) mixture
-Submerge legs in Rubbing Alcohol

Before using one of these methods, please read the thorough instructions in the article linked above. Please make sure the feet and legs are clean before using any of these methods.

Don't worry about the chickens getting it dirty or making it messy.
The Vaseline and Betadine is safe in tiny amounts if it gets pecked. Rubbing Alcohol will be evaporated by the time the affected chicken gets back with the flock.

If you are worried, you can separate the hen for a few hours so she is not bothered by the others.

Good luck.