Puffed up like a ball...

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kiplingchick

kiplingchick

Chirping
11 Years
Jan 15, 2011
46
0
90
Central NC
4 yr old SLW. Her comb and wattles started looking pale a few days ago. Now for the past two days, she has been puffed up like a ball, often her eyes are closed, and she isn't moving around very much.

I don't think she has laid an egg in the last two years, I have kept her around because she has always been sweet. Is this old age setting in? Anything I should be doing to help her? Or do I do the merciful thing and help,her say good bye?
700

700

700
 
Chickens can live well over 10 years. That said, it is very common for today's high production layers to have reproductive issues and die early. Before putting a nail in her coffin though, I would try separating her from the flock, checking her for obvious problems and maybe worm her if it hasn't been done in a while. She may just need an antibiotic or something. If she really seems to be in pain and/or completely loses interest in eating or drinking, I would let her go.
 
You might bring her inside where it is warmer in case she is chilled. At her age, egg yolk peritonitis or internal laying could be suspected especially since she hasn't laid eggs for a long time. Is she losing wight in her breast area, or is she bloated in her lower belly? Hens with reproductive issues may have problems standing or walking, may walk like a penguin, have loose droppings, not eat well, and look weak. Worming her may help if worms are a problem. Antibiotics such as penicillin G or enrofloxacin can help to fight infection, but in the long run there is no real cure. Here is some reading:
http://www.chickenvet.co.uk/health-and-common-diseases/egg-laying-issues/index.aspx
http://scoopfromthecoop.nutrenaworld.com/tag/laying-issues/
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/526089/egg-yolk-peritonitis
 

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