Cutting nails

[Sue]

Does anyone cut their birds nails? I was looking at mine today (the hens I mean!) and some of them seem a little bit longer than others. I have dog nail clippers that I could use, but I don't want to put them through the stress of having it done if it's not necessary.

 

[Stapfam]

Never even thought about cutting them- and as long as they do not cause a problem in walking- then I would not bother. Only problem would be if they start to curl under the foot and that would cause some discomfort but the way mine scratch about then I doubt it would be necessary.

 

[Chuck]

If they get very long, they are best trimmed. Usually you can see where the blood comes to so trim just beyond that on the 'dead' nail. If they do bleed, they will soon stop. Dog clippers work well.

 

[Sue]

Thanks Chuck, I'll investigate a bit more to see if they need doing now or just keep an eye on them. I think I'll wait until this rain has stopped though!!

 

[chrismahon]

We have just done Bottom's nails as they have grown a lot with him spending most of his time in the house. He's broken two as well. I use a pair of electical cable cutter/strippers. They have a diamond shaped cut so they cut from 4 sides not two and the nail doesn't split. Finish off with a nail file and he looks lovely for his girls. Nail varnish optional!

 

[Sue]

Chris, I now have a vision of Bottom strutting around wearing bright red nail polish!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 07 07

 

[Mrs Brewster]

My bantams have similar problem, I was advise if I didn't feel comfortable cutting them, just file the tips a little. Seems to work great trim and file...no nail varnish though!! Lol