7 Steps to Learn How to Make Chicken Saddles!
Feather loss in chickens is a pesky problem for poultry farmers, so we think of chicken saddles. But what is it? Chicken saddles are a garment product that acts as protective shields for your feathered friends.
Now, how to make it and use it for chickens? Simple saddles can be made from scrap fabric, elastic, and velcro. More intricate designs use yarn, felt, or even old clothes and socks. Some opt for purchasing pre-made saddles from cottage suppliers. Properly sizing the saddle to the hen is crucial for a good fit. When using, saddles are gently slipped over the hen’s back and secured.
Want to know the steps to make it on your own? Let’s make it!
Table of Contents
6 Reasons Why Chickens Need Saddles!
Chickens don’t technically need saddles like a horse for riding. But some things make you get it for them. Here are the reasons –
- Protect hens during mating: Saddles can help prevent injury and feather loss on a hen’s back and vent area from an overly aggressive rooster during mating.
- Prevent vent prolapse: Frequent mating can potentially cause vent prolapse (expulsion of the oviduct) in hens. Saddles provide a barrier to reduce this risk.
- Maintain cleanliness: Hens with bare, featherless backs are more prone to accumulating dirt and fecal matter, increasing infection risks. Saddles cover and protect this area.
- Stop feather picking: Saddles cover the back area to discourage feather picking/pulling by other hens in the flock.
- Facilitate healing: Saddles allow injuries or skin conditions on a hen’s back to heal by preventing further irritation or pecking.
- Deter roosters: Saddles themselves don’t necessarily deter roosters. However, some owners use bright colors/patterns to make hens less attractive to roosters.
Do Chicken Saddles Work?
Yes, chicken saddles do work!
These small garments are designed to protect chickens from feather loss, injuries, and discomfort, and they have been proven effective by poultry farmers around the world.
Chicken saddles act as a barrier between a chicken’s back and potential sources of harm, such as aggressive pecking from other chickens or rough surfaces in the coop.
By covering the vulnerable areas of a chicken’s back, saddles help prevent feather loss and skin injuries.
Many poultry farmers have reported positive results after using chicken saddles.
They have observed decreased feather loss, injuries, and aggression within their flocks. Also, chickens wearing saddles often exhibit improved overall well-being.
Are Chicken Saddles Safe for Them?
In general, yes – chicken saddles are considered safe for hens. However, there are some important safety considerations:
- Proper Fit: A saddle that is too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort or skin irritation. It needs to fit snugly but allow freedom of movement.
- Breathable Material: Saddles made from lightweight, breathable fabrics reduce the risk of overheating or matting of feathers.
- Design and Placement: Poultry saddles should avoid putting pressure on sensitive areas like the crop or vent. Correct positioning is important.
- Hygiene: Soiled or damp saddles can lead to skin issues or bacterial growth if not cleaned regularly.
- Supervision: Hen saddles should be monitored to ensure they don’t become caught or twisted, potentially injuring the hen.
How to Make Chicken Saddles? Step-by-step Guide!
Want to protect your hens but don’t want to buy a saddle? Here’s how to make your own in a few simple steps.
Materials You Need
- Fabric scraps (soft cotton or denim work well) – 2 pieces roughly 10″ x 10″
- Elastic band (1/4 inch width) – about 10 inches (adjust for larger breeds)
- Scissors
- Sewing supplies (needle, thread, optional: sewing machine)
Step-by-step Guide
Here’s how you can make the DIY Chicken Saddles –
Step 1. Shape it up
Cut your fabric squares into a rounded heart shape, with the curved part at the bottom. Imagine a heart with a flat top.
Step 2. Elastic highway
Place the elastic band along the curved bottom edge of one fabric piece, with half on either side. Tuck the raw edge of the fabric over the elastic.
Step 3. Sew secure
Pin then sew the fabric pieces together, enclosing the elastic inside. Sew around the entire saddle, leaving a small gap on one side.
Step 4. Flip and finish
Turn the saddle right-side out through the gap you left. Sew the gap closed by hand or with your sewing machine.
Step 5. Cozy check
Try the saddle on your hen for size. It should fit snugly but comfortably around her body, with the wings poking through the elastic wing holes.
Bonus Tip: You can add extra padding (like fleece) between the fabric layers for colder climates.
Check out this video to learn more about making chicken saddles!
How Do You Put A Saddle On A Chicken? 12 Tips!
The key is going slowly and making your chicken feel comfortable with the process. With time, she’ll learn to accept and wear the saddle without issue.
However, here are guides to follow –
- Catch your hen gently.
- Hold her securely but don’t squeeze.
- Place the saddle over her back.
- Position it behind her wings.
- Adjust the elastic/velcro straps.
- Make sure it’s snug but not tight.
- Allow room for movement.
- Distract her with a treat.
- Monitor for any discomfort.
- Remove the saddle regularly.
- Check for skin irritation.
- Be patient, she’ll get used to it.
10 Chicken Saddle Design Ideas
Tired of the typical chicken saddle look? Here are some creative design ideas to add a touch of fun –
- Classic Apron Style
- Full-Coverage Harness
- Adjustable Strap Saddle
- Wing-Free Design
- Elasticized Edge Saddle
- Neoprene Feather Protector
- Velcro Fastening Saddle
- Quilted Comfort Saddle
- Flannel-Lined Saddle
- Waterproof Outer Shell Saddle
Looking at a chicken saddle for sale? Check out Amazon! I personally loved Happyyami Chicken Aprons for Hens Chicken.
How to Choose the Right Chicken Saddle
So you’ve decided on a chicken saddle for the poultries. But with all the options out there, how do you pick the right one? Here’s a quick guide:
Size Matters
Measure twice, saddle once! Don’t guess! Use a soft measuring tape to measure.
Be sure the distance is in between your hen’s wings when spread gently. From the base of her neck to the base of her tail (uropygial gland).
Match the measurements to a size chart. Most saddle sellers provide these to ensure a good fit. A too-loose saddle won’t protect her back, and a too-tight one will be uncomfortable.
Material and Fabric
Comfort is key! Look for soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or denim. In colder climates, a saddle with a fleece lining can provide extra warmth.
Choose a material that’s easy to wash and dry.
Fastening Features
Most saddles use adjustable elastic straps that go under the wings. Some saddles use velcro closures, which can be easier to adjust on wiggly hens.
Bonus Considerations
Get functional designs, like saddles with wing covers or reflective materials. Some saddles even have pockets for herbs said to deter pests.
If you’re unsure, ask a vet or experienced chicken owner for advice on saddle selection.
Related Articles:
FAQs
Want to know more about chicken saddles? Check the Q&A section!
Q. How do I choose the right size saddle?
Measure the distance between your hen’s wings and the length from her neck to her tail base. Measure your hen and choose a saddle size according to the seller’s chart.
Q. Will a chicken saddle hurt my hen?
A properly fitted saddle shouldn’t hurt your hen. However, a too-tight saddle can restrict movement, and a too-loose one won’t offer protection.
Q. Can I use a chicken saddle on a rooster?
While not typical, some people use modified saddles on roosters with particularly sharp spurs to prevent injury to other chickens.
Q. How often should I clean a chicken saddle?
Wash the saddle regularly with warm water and a mild soap. Allow it to dry completely before putting it back on the hen.
Q. Are there alternatives to chicken saddles?
If you have a small flock or an overly aggressive rooster, separating the rooster might be an option. However, this can disrupt the flock’s social hierarchy.
Q. What is the difference between a hen cape and a saddle?
Hen capes and saddles both protect chickens but from different areas. The saddle covers the back and wings, protecting from feather loss during mating or pecking. Where the cape covers the neck and chest, offering less specific protection.
Summary
Chicken saddles offer a practical solution for protecting your hens. From preventing injuries during mating to maintaining cleanliness, these nifty garments benefit hen health. While saddle success depends on proper fit and hen acceptance, they are generally safe.
Making your own is easy with basic materials. Or choose from fun, creative designs to suit your flock’s needs. With a little patience, chicken saddles can provide peace of mind for both you and your pampered poultry pals. Give these versatile protective covers a try!
