Broiler chickens are one of the poultry species that are widely raised for commercial purposes. However, just like other animals, broiler chickens are also susceptible to various diseases. One of the health problems often encountered in broiler chickens is

What is Bubul Disease or Bumblefoot?

Bubul disease or bumblefoot is an infectious condition that affects the soles of the feet of chickens or ducks. In broilers, the disease is caused by repeated pressure or friction on the skin of the feet. As a result, thickening, sores, and infection occur in the area. Let's talk more about this disease.

Symptoms of Bubul Disease

Some of the symptoms that can be recognized when chickens are affected by bubul disease include:

  • Red soles of the feet: Redness of the soles of the feet or fingers.
  • Swelling of the soles of the feet: The chicken's legs are swollen.
  • Limping chicken: Due to pain and discomfort in the legs, the chicken becomes lame.
  • Less active: Chickens tend to be less active and not as mobile as usual.
  • Dry sores or scabs on the soles of the feet: The infected area may form dry sores or scabs.
  • Foul odor: The soles of the chicken's feet or fingers emit an unpleasant odor.

BACA JUGA: Panduan Memilih DOC Ayam Broiler Berkualitas

Stages of Bubul Disease

  1. First Stage: Pada tahap ini, telapak kaki akan tampak kemerahan. Ayam masih mampu berjalan, meskipun kurang aktif.
  2. Second Stage: Merah pada telapak kaki semakin meluas, dan ketidakstabilan pada kaki terjadi.
  3. Third Stage: Larger bubbles can cause the chicken to become paralyzed. If not treated immediately, it can be fatal.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention

  • Maintain the cleanliness of the cage and cage bedding.
  • Using quality cage mats.
  • Reduce the density of chickens in the cage.
  • Provide adequate vitamins and minerals to the chickens.

Curative

  • Perform minor surgery on the affected leg to remove the hardened skin layer and draw out the pus.
  • Administer antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and inflammation.

Conclusion

Bubul disease or bumblefoot can affect the health of broiler chickens. With good prevention and proper treatment, we can maintain chicken welfare and ensure farm productivity remains optimal.