During the rearing and training of fighting roosters, footpad dermatitis is a common yet often underestimated condition. It causes pain and inflammation in the plantar surface of the foot, significantly impairing the bird’s performance and fighting ability.
Footpad dermatitis is a common condition in fighting roosters, characterized by inflammation and infection in the footpad area, most often caused by Staphylococcus aureus. This disease can significantly impair mobility and, if left untreated, may lead to serious complications.
I. CAUSES OF DISEASE
Footpad dermatitis in fighting roosters can be caused by the following reasons:
Mechanical damage: Due to chickens frequently moving on rough surfaces, hard rocks or sharp objects.
Image of footpad dermatitis
Poor barn hygiene: Dirty, damp barn floors create conditions for bacteria to grow.
Poor nutrition: Deficiencies in vitamin A, biotin or essential fatty acids make chicken feet skin vulnerable.
Obesity: Overweight chickens can put pressure on their feet, damaging the skin and making them susceptible to infection.
II. SYMPTOMS
A hard swelling appears on the sole of the foot, which may contain pus.
The chicken is limping and lazy to move.
The wound may have a black scab or become ulcerated.
If the infection is severe, the chicken may have a fever and lose strength.
III. EFFECTIVE TREATMENT
Use warm salt water solution (or diluted iodine), or boil betel leaf water and add a little salt, soak the chicken for 10-15 minutes to soften the inflamed tissue. Dry with a clean towel.
Remove inflammatory tissue
If the wound has pus, use a scalpel or sterile needle to make a small incision to remove the pus.
Use hydrogen peroxide or iondin @ to disinfect the treated area.
Image of fighting roosters
IV. TREATMENT
Antibiotics: Use Linspectin or Interspectin L or Penstrep 400 LA to inject chickens according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Anti-inflammatory, anti-swelling: Use Dexasone to inject into chickens.
Nutritional supplements for chickens: farmers add vitamin A, biotin, and zinc to support the healing process.
Image of fighting roosters
V. PREVENTION
Keep the barn clean and change the bedding regularly.
Supplement a reasonable diet to avoid chicken obesity.
Check chicken feet regularly to detect injuries early.
Avoid letting the fighting cocks fight on surfaces that are too hard.
Footpad dermatitis in fighting roosters is a dangerous disease, but can be treated and prevented effectively if detected early. Therefore, farmers need to apply appropriate care measures to protect the health of chickens and maintain the best physical condition.