I received results from Lynne's necropsy this evening. She died from egg yolk peritonitis. Vet said to make sure the rest of the hens are getting enough calcium. She had shown no sign of a broken egg. If I had started antibiotics at the first sign of lethargy, in a high enough dose, she might...
She is not dehydrated. I've been giving her water several times a day, with antibiotic and some baby food mixed in.
But she isn't going to make it. I'm finding someone to help me euthanize her today.
Update (for learning purposes)....Lynne is still alive. She has lost weight. I can't get food into her, but she seems happy to get the fluids (both the water with duramycin and the corid). She has refused yogurt and mealworms. I'm just not up for the tube feeding. She's a 3-4 year old...
This is Lynne in healthier days. She is the last of my original three hens, who were all ex-batts. I never thought she'd be the one to last the longest -- as you can see her beak was cut back quite far at the factory. She is a lively and affectionate (pushy?) girl.
OK, the Corid is on board! She is so pitiful in her little doggie crate in the bedroom, but at least I know she is warm and dry and no chance of getting bullied by the Delawares.
In a couple of hours, I'll get some more fluids down her.
Thanks again all. I will keep you posted. I'm not...
According to these (extremely helpful) pics, I now know that my index finger has explored every inch of the inner surface of Lynne's uterus. (This was not something I ever expected to say in life).
I am very grateful for the advice and knowledge here. I have the Corid and am on the way home...
My approximately 3 yo production red has been acting lethargic for 2 days.
Signs: sitting alone on ground, puffed up. Not eating. (Yesterday she ate meal worms but today she won't). Not drinking. (I started syringing water with antibiotics yesterday, and gave Epsom salts on day 1). Some light...