Hen very lethargic and sick-looking

piper123 · Apr 17, 2016

We have a two year old hen that just started becoming very lethargic today. She is normally out free ranging with the flock but today she just sat in the grass all day and hardly moved. Her poop is white/clearish and runny and not much is coming out. We've separated her and now she is eating but hasn't been drinking. Anyone have any suggestions? Thanks.

Eggcessive · Apr 18, 2016

I would take a bowl of her feed, and mix it with water containing vitamins and electrolytes, such as SaveAChick or another brand. That way she will get some fluids, and hopefully will start drinking. Check her crop to see if it is full and hard, puffy, or empty. Check inside her vent with a finger inserted 1-2 inches for a stuck egg, and use a disp. glove. Check her skin around the vent and elsewhere for signs of lice and mites. Feel of her breast srea for any weight loss. I don't know what is wrong, but hens this age can frequently suffer from reproductive disorders such as peritonitis or internal laying. How recently has she laid eggs?

piper123 · Apr 20, 2016

Thank you for the suggestions. I checked in her vent and couldn't feel any eggs and she isn't loosing any weight or anything. Yesterday, she was up and free ranging and seemed fine but then today she's back to laying on the ground and not wanting to do much. She laid an egg yesterday but I'm not sure if she's laid any today, although my guess is no because she's been sitting by the fence since I let her out this morning.

Eggcessive · Apr 20, 2016

Is she eating and drinking? How does her crop feel early in the morning?

Hen very lethargic and sick-looking

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