Bumblefoot in Chickens: Natural Treatment and Holistic Care

Bumblefoot is one of the most common health issues faced by backyard chicken keepers, and when caught early, it can be managed effectively with the right combination of natural and supportive care.

If your chicken is limping, has a swollen foot, or you’ve noticed a dark scab on the underside of their foot, it could be bumblefoot.

Bumblefoot is a common infection in domestic fowl

What is Bumblefoot?

Bumblefoot (also called pododermatitis) is a bacterial infection in the footpad of a chicken. It typically starts when a small cut or bruise allows bacteria (most commonly Staphylococcus aureus) to enter, leading to inflammation, swelling, and sometimes abscess formation.

If left untreated, bumblefoot can become deeply infected and even impact bone tissue. But with prompt attention and consistent care, most cases can be resolved.

Signs of Bumblefoot in Chickens

• Limping or favouring one foot

• Swollen footpad or toes

• Redness, heat, or scabbed area on the underside of the foot

• Reluctance to perch or walk

• In advanced cases: pus, discharge, or visible abscess

Regularly checking your chickens’ feet, especially if they free-range or live on rough ground, can help you catch issues early.

Natural Care for Bumblefoot

Natural care can help reduce infection, relieve pain, and support tissue healing. You can often manage this at home for mild or moderate cases. in severe infections, debridement of the wound by a vet may be required.

1. Soak and Clean

• Use a warm epsom salt or herbal soak (like our Chicken Salts) to soften the area. The bentonite clay in the chicken salts helps to remove dirt, mud and oils from the wound.

2. Apply a Topical Treatment

• Use a natural wound-supporting product like Bumble Drops, made with calendula, plantain, chamomile, myrrh, burr marigold, maritime pine bark, and barberry — formulated for antimicrobial and tissue-repairing action

• Follow with a protective balm such as Sore Salve, which seals in moisture and protects the area while healing

3. Wrap if Needed

• In more severe or open cases, apply dressing and wrap the foot to protect it from dirt and reinjury

• Monitor daily for signs of improvement or spreading infection

Internal Support and Prevention

Supporting your chicken’s immune system and overall wellbeing plays a key role in overcoming infection, and supporting the healing of bumblefoot:

• Offer a balanced diet with trace minerals

• Keep perches smooth and bedding clean and dry

• Reduce stress and support healing with herbal tonics if needed

• Adding fresh Garlic to their food

• For severe bumblefoot, I recommend using an internal herbal support mix to boost immune function and tissue healing.

  
  

Want Step-by-Step Guidance?

We’ve put together a practical, easy-to-follow Bumblefoot Ebooklet that walks you through the exact protocol I use in clinic, The booklet goes into more detail on management and treatment.

It’s also included free when you purchase our Bumblefoot Care Bundle, featuring:

• Bumble Drops (herbal antimicrobial)

• Sore Salve (protective wound balm)

• Chicken Salts (soothing herbal soak)

• Bonus: Bumblefoot Ebooklet

• PLUS you get a 10% discount on the products when purchased in the program.

  
  

This bundle is perfect for any chicken keeper looking to feel confident managing foot injuries naturally.

Your chickens don’t have to suffer — and you don’t have to feel unsure about what to do. With the right tools and gentle support, healing is within reach.