The Grading of Claw (Ground) Deformities in Hawks (Eagles) Is Important for Treatment Planning

"Grading of Bumblefoot (Pododermatitis) in Chickens, Hawks, and Eagles is Important for Treatment Planning"

By Dr. Kamolrat Pho-Suwan (Doctor Fon) and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sompoch Veerakul (Assoc. Prof. Kaew)

Bumblefoot or pododermatitis is a common condition, also known as “Bumblefoot disease” in chickens, hawks, and eagles. It is typically caused by hard surfaces in the cage or pen, such as plastic netting or wire cages, which can lead to injuries. Other contributing factors include trauma, age, overcrowding, excessive weight, and a lack of essential nutrients such as biotin, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Symptoms: In the early stages, the soles and pads under the toes become slightly swollen, red, and warm. The joints of the toes and feet may also swell. Lesions might be absent or present as abrasions. The bird begins to show signs of pain and reluctance to place weight on the affected foot. As the condition progresses, deep and large ulcers may form, with keratin formation in the skin's intermediate layer or connective tissue under the wound. Pus may accumulate, and black scabs may appear. Common bacteria found in these cases are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus spp. The bird will be unable to place weight on the foot.

In more advanced stages, the lesions will harden due to the excessive growth of connective tissue and keratin, resulting in a callus-like appearance (hyperkeratosis). The bird will regain some ability to place weight on the foot with reduced pain. In some cases, pus may not be present, but a callus-like growth will be observed under the skin. Upon dissection, a cheese-like substance or connective tissue resembling skin under the wound may be found.

If left untreated or if the infection is severe, it can lead to osteomyelitis (bone infection) around the toe joints, and sometimes the knee. This causes significant swelling.

Treatment: Treatment depends on the severity or grading of the condition.

Grade 1: For early signs of redness from pressure or injury, mild inflammation can be treated with moisturizing creams to promote skin healing and prevent callus formation. Interdigital bandages or ball bandages can be applied to relieve pressure. Reducing risk factors such as unsuitable cage floors also helps.
Grade 2: If skin thickening occurs and swelling becomes more pronounced, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications may be prescribed. Topical treatments for milder cases and oral or injectable medications for severe pain are recommended. Vitamin A supplementation (100,000 units per kilogram of bird body weight) is sometimes advised, with injections twice weekly in the first week and then once a week thereafter. Bandaging the foot is also helpful.
Grade 3: In more severe cases with significant epidermal damage, swelling, and redness, the bird may be unable to place weight on the foot. Ulcers with bacterial infection, characterized by pus and black scabs, are common. At this stage, a thorough diagnosis including radiographs is essential to check for bone inflammation or infection. Treatment may involve changing from topical creams to a combination of three active ingredients in a topical medication (DDA) to enhance skin absorption. This helps reduce inflammation, treat bacterial infections, and manage pain. The use of keratin-reducing medications can help prevent excessive tissue growth during wound healing.
Grade 4: In very severe cases, with extensive tissue death, abscesses, and pronounced swelling in the ankle and knee, appropriate antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications are used. Surgical intervention may be considered after swelling is reduced.
Grade 5: If bone degeneration and osteomyelitis occur (especially in the toe and foot bones), the prognosis is poor. This stage may not respond well to treatment, and the bird may not regain normal function in its foot. Management focuses on stabilizing the infection and monitoring bone healing.
Conclusion: The proper grading of bumblefoot is crucial for determining the most effective treatment. Early stages respond well to conservative treatments, but more advanced cases require more intensive care, including surgery, antibiotics, and specialized wound management. Close collaboration with a veterinarian is essential to optimize recovery and prevent complications such as systemic infections and bone degeneration.