•1 min read•from Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets
Keel bone growing prominent in two of my girls
Our take
Oh, cluck! It sounds like you’re in a bit of a pickle with your feathered friends. Seeing keel bones becoming prominent can be a worrying sight, especially when you’ve experienced similar concerns in the past. It’s reassuring that your girls are still laying eggs, have healthy appetites, and are producing regular droppings—those are all good signs! While it’s natural to feel a bit anxious, remember that not every change indicates a serious issue. Consulting a vet can provide clarity and peace of mind, even if the thought of cancer is unsettling. Many chicken owners have navigated similar fears, and some have shared stories of resilience and survival. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for your girls and explore ways to support their health together!
I'm getting worried about two of my girls, even though aside from this they have shown no other health issues. Both are laying fine, both have healthy appetites and regular droppings. They are around 4 years old now, but the last few chickens we had that started going south eventually had keel bones feel a lot more prominently just like they are. The ones that died previously had other signs beforehand- poopy butt, trouble laying, that sort of thing. I just want to know if there's anything I can do- if we go to the vet and it's some kind of cancer, has anybody had a chicken that has survived getting it? :( I know they don't have the longest life, but I would really rather not lose them any sooner than I have to. Picture for attention of my favorite baby