16-mo old BO hen internal layer? update: Paris necropsy pics (graphic)

[OrpingtonManor]

Paris popped up on cue tonight when I walked in with the baby parrot food in a syringe. She looked a little surprised to be standing. She started pecking at the crumbles and what was left of the rice in blueberry juice. I still tried to feed her the parrot food, but only managed to get about 3ml in her, and much of that was actually on the towel. She sort of played with it, and shook her head. I gave her another dose of Pen G, and left her to rest. I'll give some electrolyte solution before bed, and maybe a few blueberries.

 

[OrpingtonManor]

Paris was up eating crumbles and (just a few) blueberries this morning, and preening like a madwoman. Her poops now looked formed and normal. I'm thinking I should finish the course of Pen G, and keep her under watchful eyes, and the extra care of electrolytes, vitamins, and calcium, in addition to her crumbles.

It would be better for Paris is she wasn't kept in a cage (and better for me when I take a shower since this is my only tiny bathroom), but I am reluctant to return her to the cold coop anytime soon. Can cats and chickens get along? Chicken diapers?

I'm fairly stunned that she has made such good progress this time around. I thought for sure she would not respond to the same antibiotic. I'm wondering, too, if I should consider a second course of antibiotics like Baytril to make sure we have gotten all of the infection? I'd like to get it right this time. (The feed store people must think I am some kind of drug addict with all these needles and syringes.)

She is one spunky girl!

 

[usschicago1]

I think as long as you did one full round of antibiotics and she is looking better than just leave her be. But you should deffinitly leave her in a little longer and let her body recover

Yeahh! You did it!!

 

[Pampered Hen]

Glad to hear that Paris is bouncing back.
I have seen chicken diapers on here somewhere...

 

[OrpingtonManor]

This morning, when I gave Paris her injection, the first needle dart pricked a bone. I could feel it immediately, and withdrew the needle. I gave her the injection in the other breast instead. Then she started dripping blood at a fairly impressive rate from the first site. I'm guessing the periosteum got a little tear. I put pressure on the whole breast, because I couldn't even find the hole through her feathers. The bleeding stopped right away, but I wanted to post about it. When a bird gets this emaciated, it's hard to find much muscling. And, 1" needles are the shortest available.

She seems fine, but I will keep an eye on her. She is walking around the cage, pecking at crumbles, and preening. No worse for the wear.

 

[Lora C]

just wanted to say that i have been following this post from the beginning, and wanted to thank you for sharing because i've learned a lot. I haven't had to give an injection yet - but, at the point when you cant inject into the breast, would you give the injection Sub-Q?

for Paris!

 

[OrpingtonManor]

That is what others have been saying. Personally, I might try an intramuscular injection in her thigh before I did it sub-cutaneous. However, that would require a helper, which I don't have. I'm hoping I don't have to figure that out.

 

[LilBizzy]

Quote:
OW.. Sounds like it might have hurt you more than her. I'd probably be crying if I did that. Heck, I'd probably be crying if I had to just give needle. You are so brave!!!
Eating crumbles, preening and normal poop is a good thing. Glad to hear this was just a small step back. We are all cheering for you and Paris.

 

[OrpingtonManor]

I think she just wants to be a house chicken for the winter. Pretty crafty of her.

 

[sammi]

I just saw your question about the Baytril..I think it comes in injectable, oral and pills.
might be worth considering.
but keep in mind that she'll need a good probiotic...not to be given in conjunction with oral or pills since it would interfere with absorption..anytime with injectable..
she probably needs that now...with all the Pen she's gotten..antibiotics kill good bacteria along with bad..
(if you aren't already giving it)..a good active culture yogurt, like from a health food store, or probiotic mix..
McMurrays has it..I think First State also..

take a look..

http://www.firststatevetsupply.com/store/

I think oral pen is available at First State..but Baytril might be a better option..hard to get now without a vet..maybe Peter Brown at First State can help you if you don't know a vet..
I don't know..
I just feel so bad for Paris and hope she recovers.