Bumblefoot is a bacterial infection or abscess of the foot in chickens. It is caused by a cut or scrape to the chickens foot that then becomes contaminated by different species of bacteria that are often ubiquitous in the surrounding environment, including Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), E. coli, and Pseudomonas. The most common cause of bumblefoot in chickens is perching at too young of an age. Bumblefoot can also be caused by recurring force and excess pressure to the foot, such as jumping down from a roost. Overweight chickens are especially susceptible to bumblefoot.

The initial symptoms of bumblefoot are limping or hopping, wherein the chicken will be visibly favoring one foot. If you notice a swollen foot or inflamed tissue on their leg, this could be an indication that a staph infection is present. An inflamed wound can also be pointing to a deeper issue.

To prevent bumblefoot, it is important to provide chickens with a clean and comfortable environment. Chickens require a complete, balanced diet to avoid vitamin deficiencies and obesity that put them at risk of contracting bumblefoot. Laying hens need a complete layer ration with an additional calcium source such as crushed oyster shells or eggshells available to them in a separate hopper.

If bumblefoot is suspected, it is important to address it with urgency and care, as it can quickly spread to muscle and bone tissue, and if left untreated, the infection can lead to death. Bumblefoot is a fairly easy condition to diagnose in chickens and can be treated at home or by a vet. Treatment may include soaking the foot in Epsom salts, antibiotic therapy, and surgery.