[nesetceri]

my 2 year old pekin bantom hen lost all her feathers on her head and also bit scabby ,looks like cradle cap..how should I treat it ?
 

[Lindeggs]

Hello nesetceri and welcome to the forums.  

The first thing would be to find out what is causing the problem - there are some kinds of mites that burrow under the skin, but it could also be a fungal infection, an allergic reaction, or a variety of other things.  If it is not possible to take her to a vet and have a sample analysed, would it be possible to post a photo here?

Also take a look at her legs.  Are her legs smooth, wioth the scales lying flat?  Or are they rough and/or swollen?  Sometimes the same things can affect the skin on the legs and the face.  Are any of your other chickens affected?

Meanwhile there are various substances you can use that would be harmless whatever the cause, and may do some good.  You could use some petroleum jelly (Vaseline) to rub on the area, avoiding the eyes of course.  Or take a look at the baby-care aisle at your local supermarket or pharmacy for a gentle, soothing cream.  You might be right in your cradle-cap thoughts.

It is usually easiest to take a chicken off her perch at night while she is sleepy, apply the cream then put her back with her friends.