Chicken Saddle ~ Not a Funny Farm Fad: Controversial or Crucial? [2024]
Chicken Saddle? A Chicken Wearing a Protective Saddle – Yes or No?
Why?
Can I Make One?
Believe it or not, a chicken saddle serves a practical purpose.
I know I thought it was just a gimmick, too, for a long time.
But it’s not.
It really is a thing!
And it works!
These fabric coverings protect hens from overzealous roosters during mating.
Why Should My Chickens Wear One?
In the world of chickens, romance can be a rough affair, especially for the hens.
The roosters, in their romantic pursuits, can cause quite a bit of wear and tear on the ladies’ backs. With their sharp talons, these Casanovas of the coop often leave more than just their mark.
The constant mounting can lead to feather loss and, unfortunately, skin damage, sometimes even resulting in the poor hens bleeding from cuts.
It’s a tough love scenario, but not of the good kind, that can make the chicken pen look more like a scene from a drama than a love story.
Can I Make a Saddle? or, Do I Buy One?
A well-fitted chicken saddle acts as a shield, promoting feather regrowth and preventing injuries.
It’s a simple solution for backyard flock owners to keep hens healthy and comfortable.
The good news is that you have options for acquiring chicken saddles.
Making a Saddle
Making your chicken saddle can be a fun and cost-effective option for the crafty chicken keeper. You’ll need:
- Durable, washable fabric like cotton or canvas
- Elastic straps
- Sewing supplies
You can create a custom-fit saddle for your hens with basic sewing skills.
Many DIY tutorials and patterns are available online, allowing you to tailor the design to your flock’s needs.
Buying a Saddle
If crafting isn’t your thing, pre-made chicken saddles are readily available. Benefits of store-bought saddles include:
- Professional design and construction
- Time-saving convenience
- Variety of sizes and styles
Many farm supply stores and online retailers offer different materials and designs of chicken saddles.
When purchasing, ensure you choose the right size for your breed of chicken.
Whether you make or buy, the key is finding a comfortable, secure fit that protects your hens without restricting their movement.
Ask the Farmer more about the saddle
I can elaborate on this topic for more information about chicken saddles. I want to post more on this topic, but only if you wish. You can send me a note via my Contact Page.
