Cross/ Scissor Beak in Chickens

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Cross/ Scissor Beak in Chickens

Posted: 4/26/2016 8:34:44 PM EDT

One of our chicks seems to have developed Cross Beak.
They are one week old to tomorrow. Does anyone have any tips/ tricks for us to help this chick?
Would clipping or filing be of any help?
Here is a picture of the culprit

Posted: 4/26/2016 8:49:52 PM EDT

[#1]

Needs braces

Posted: 4/27/2016 5:35:55 PM EDT

[#2]

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Quoted:
Needs braces

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So, I should take it to the Orthodontist?

Posted: 4/27/2016 6:00:27 PM EDT

[#3]

Seems obvious

Posted: 4/27/2016 7:08:17 PM EDT

[#4]

Quote History

Quoted:
Seems obvious

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Ok thanks, I will make an appointment tomorrow

Posted: 4/27/2016 9:58:12 PM EDT

[#5]

I don't think there is enough beak there to trim yet.

Never had a chicken with cross beak but I have done some trimming on a lazy bird of mine that doesn't keep hers filed down good.

When her beak grows more it should be easy to see how much is safe to trim.

They are like dog/cat claws or our finger nails, If you go to far it will hurt and bleed.

I think cross beak is mostly a genetic thing but the chickens can usually live normal lives with it.

If you can help trim it later she should be able to eat and drink without much trouble.

I wish you and the cute bird the best of luck, MBanning

Posted: 5/2/2016 8:27:35 PM EDT

[#6]

This is what it looks like a week later

Posted: 5/2/2016 8:40:54 PM EDT

[#7]

Quote History

Quoted:
This is what it looks like a week later

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j477/jpmako19/Mobile%20Uploads/65FC4A17-2E45-48FD-AE80-D6348B2A097F_zpsipbdmubv.jpg

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Poor girl. Your first picture didn't seem like it would evolve into something so severe.

Posted: 5/2/2016 8:43:47 PM EDT

[#8]

what's the chicken equivalent to veal? because that probably the best option at this point..

Posted: 5/2/2016 8:59:06 PM EDT

[#9]

It is still eating and drinking but I am starting to think that this is going to be a pretty severe case and don't have high hopes. My Mother had a few that had cross beak and she said they all lived pretty long lives but I don't think it was this bad at such an early age.

Posted: 5/2/2016 9:21:46 PM EDT

[#10]

Poor little birdie. I am glad you are there to give it the best. I didn't know it would get worse like that.

Posted: 5/2/2016 9:50:18 PM EDT

[#11]

Yeah, I would cull that one.

Posted: 5/3/2016 8:01:43 PM EDT

[#12]

Poor chick. That is worse than I expected in a week.

I did a quick search after my first reply and found a bit of info online.

Some suggested a raised nipple type watering system so the chick could have the water drip into her mouth.

Scooping water and raising her head back like most chickens likely wont be as effective.

A raised feeder was also recommended to make it easier for her to pick up food.

Good for you for giving her a chance, if it comes to a point that she will never able to live a relatively normal, happy chicken life then no one could fault you for culling her.

Again, best of luck and keep us posted, MBanning

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Cross/ Scissor Beak in Chickens

Outdoors » Homestead, Farm & Garden

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