Chicken limping: quick checks, common causes, and when it’s urgent

First: when it’s urgent

If you see any of the below, stop Googling and get proper help (urgent vet / poultry expert):

• Cannot bear weight at all, or the leg/foot is visibly deformed.
• Hot, swollen joint or foot, bleeding, or a deep wound.
• Bird is not eating/drinking or is very lethargic.
• Rapidly worsening limp over 24–48 hours.
• You suspect a fracture or severe bumblefoot infection.

Quick checks (60 seconds)

• Pick her up and inspect the footpad: cuts, swelling, scabs, or a black ‘plug’.
• Check between toes for string/hair (it can act like a tourniquet).
• Feel the leg joints for heat or swelling compared to the other leg.
• Look for scale/irritation on legs (parasites can cause discomfort).
• Scan the run for hazards: sharp mesh edges, nails, rocks, wire, wet mud.
• Observe her on flat ground: toe-walking, dragging, or hopping tells you where it hurts.

Likely causes (the usual suspects)

• Minor sprain/strain (jumping from perches, slipping on ramps).
• Bumblefoot (footpad infection often starting from a tiny cut).
• A small cut, splinter, thorn, or foreign body.
• Run conditions (mud, slippery surfaces, sharp edges).
• Joint problems or tendon issues (sometimes in heavier birds).
• Being pecked/harassed so she isn’t resting or eating well.

What to do today

1. Separate her somewhere calm with food and water so you can observe and she can rest.
2. Do a careful foot inspection. If you see a deep wound, heavy swelling, or pus — get proper help.
3. Give her a dry, soft surface (clean bedding) and reduce jumping/ramps temporarily.
4. Fix the environment: remove sharp hazards and address mud/slippery areas.
5. If there’s no improvement quickly, or she declines: contact a poultry/avian vet.