[Kerry]

Hope you know what I mean by "claggy". Looks like Thelma has had the squits, and it's dried on under her vent. Eggs are coming out clean, but what's the best way to clean her up ?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated

Cheers, Kerry.

[purplebat]

I've not had this problem but I would suggest some cotton wool and tepid water, but someone else will probably be along soon with another suggestion

[Kerry]

Thanks purplebat, I thought as much really but didn't know whether I could use a soapy solution or not. Think I will need someone to hold her aswell.

[purplebat]

if you tuck her under yur arm so she is facing behind you; make sure your arm is around her wings,  and you be able to do it yourself, I wouldn't have thought that a very mild soapy solution would hurt but I can't swear on it

[Aunt Sally]

That's exactly what I do PB.    My Gertrude often needs a little wash  

I get a bowl full of nice warm water and add a dribble of baby shampoo, you don't need much !  

I then pick up the chook and tuck her under my left arm (I'm right handed) with her head facing backwards and her wings pinned by my arm and body.  I often hold her legs with my left hand if she seems a bit struggley.

I use something like a J-cloth dipped in the warm shampooie water and bath the offending area.  Make sure only to bath in the direction the feathers grow.  Rinse the cloth frequently.

Dry her botty a bit with a dry cloth.  VoilĂ ,  a clean fluff smelling sweetly of baby shampoo    

[Kerry]

Thanks both,

Will do so today. Didn't want to use soapy solution if it would remove any oils from the feathers.

Workmates were laughing coz I was saying I'd have to wash her bum. Now I can tell them I'm not the only one.

Cheers, Kerry.

[purplebat]

Didn't want to use soapy solution if it would remove any oils from the feathers.

I think that be more of a problem for ducks as they need it for waterproofing as they swim, hope it goes well

[Aunt Sally]

Didn't want to use soapy solution if it would remove any oils from the feathers.

A little baby shampoo in the watter is quite safe and will not strip the oil out  

[Kerry]

Just you let you know I washed Thelma at the weekend, dont think she was too impressed, but a bit of broccoli afterwards did the trick.

Many thanks for your help.

Kerry.