My eco solution to rat problems

[pipmelad]

Hi,

 

We have 2 chickens in an eglu in an home made run. It is made with chicken wire has a roof and has been secure for well over a year, but this morning a fox bit a whole through the wire and was trying to pull Cyril through it. Her foot is all bloody and she is hopping around. We have now added a bamboo layer on the inside as well as adding another layer of chicken wire around the outside. Is there anything else we can do, and is there anything we can do to help Cyril. thank you so much

[Egluntyne]

Hello.

 

You need to catch Cyril and examine the wounds. A fox's mouth is full of bacteria a bite could become infected if you are not careful.

 

Bathe the wounds with warm water with either a bit of salt or a few drops of Tea Tree oil in it.

 

First sign of any swelling or redness, off to the vet.

 

Chicken wire unfortunately is useless as a defence against foxes. They can bite through it in a trice.

 

You would be much better off using weldmesh.

 

I'm afraid the fox is fairly likely to come back, as he knows where a tasty meal is.

 

For the time being at least, close the Eglu door at night.

 

At least that way they will be safe.

 

Welcome to the forum.

 

Sorry about the circumstances.

[pipmelad]

Thank you, I will order some mesh tonight

 

should I bring her indoors?

 

Pip

[Egluntyne]

I would say yes, if only for tonight.

 

It will give you a chance to assess the wounds better.

 

Also she might be feeling a bit traumatised, so somewhere safe dark and quiet would be just the ticket.

 

Make sure she doesn't get dehydrated.