Treat bumblefoot with soaking and wound care

Soak the affected foot in warm Epsom salt water for 15-20 minutes to soften the tissue, then carefully remove the black scab and extract the pus kernel (caseous core) with sterilized tweezers or a scalpel. Apply Betadine or chlorhexidine antiseptic, pack with antibiotic ointment, and bandage with gauze and vet wrap. Change the bandage every 2-3 days until healed.

Why It Works

Bumblefoot is a staphylococcus infection that enters through small cuts or abrasions on the footpad. The characteristic hard kernel of dried pus must be removed for the infection to clear. Without treatment, the infection can spread to the bone and become fatal.

Tips

• Wear disposable gloves — staph bacteria can infect humans through cuts
• Prevent bumblefoot by removing sharp objects from the run and providing soft landing areas below high roosts
• If the kernel is deep or the bird shows signs of systemic infection, consult a vet