Feather pecking is an abnormal behaviour whereby some laying hens peck
others sometimes removing feathers, which can result in poor plumage,
patches of feather loss, skin damage and even death.
Where feather pecking develops into injurious pecking and the protective function of the
bird’s plumage is lost, this can trigger cannibalism which is a serious animal
welfare problem.
Feather pecking is distinct from aggressive pecking which
is often aimed at the head, although in aggressive pecking there may be
elements of feather pecking present.
Anti Feather Pecking Spray for chickens works by preventing biting plucking and cannibalism occurring as it contains a foul tasting substance with a very strong odour.
The foul tasting substance is so strong most biting or plucking will cease after 1 or 2 days. Anti-bacterial agents have been incorporated for minor skin abrasions and will disinfect the afflicted sites immediately.
These agents will also help to minimise bacterial infection spreading allowing commencement of the healing process.
Cannibalism and feather pecking are a complex multifactorial behavioural problem of poultry and game birds worldwide.
Predisposing factors include tensoynovitis and other diseases affecting mobility boredom and strain of bird. Symptoms include: Pecking at feet (especially young chicks) and vents (adult layers and turkey poults 8-12 days old).
Also pecking at the head face and wings and feather pulling. Cannibalism and feather pecking may lead to skin wounding leaving it open to bacterial infection. In severe cases this will lead to a loss of blood resulting in generalised anaemia.
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