2 chicks with leg problems

[kristen_k]

Hi,

I have 46 CX's that are 4 weeks old. I have 2 that are just laying around. When I put their feed in the morning they are very happy to see I have food coming. Well this morning I had two that were just laying there and wouldn't get up. I moved them over to the feeder and they stood up to eat but their balance was off. I got them to walk a little by themselves but they were walking goofy and only went so far and just sat down. I really am at a loss of what to do.

I forgot to add that one of them always has his feathers ruffled out and he isn't very responsive when I pick him up. The other one looks like he is sitting on his butt and his legs kind of stick out. Help!

Thank you!

Kristen

 

[Dogfish]

Looks like you have a few cull birds. Cull the listless one, ruffles, soon. Watch the other one. Culling is part of the process.

 

[kristen_k]

How do I cull them??? Should i save the meat off of them? They are almost cornish game hen size.

 

[Dogfish]

Read other posts about how to kill and process the birds. Yes, you can eat your culls.

 

[kristen_k]

Well I got the one culled and butcherd. It was a little rough going through with everything, but I got it done and I think I did pretty good since it was my first time. I have read a lot the threads on here that have been very helpful. This was a great learning experience!

 

[KatyTheChickenLady]

it always seems like it's the small ones whose legs give out on them. I culled 10 out of a hundred last week for just that same reason. I realize you already culled yours (good job!) in the future just make sure they are kept fed and watered up to the day you set to dispatch early.

 

[kristen_k]

I was feeding him by hand and carrying him to the waterer the past 2 days, I didn't want him to suffer and this morning he couldn't even get up anymore so I thought I better act quick. I feel a lot better about this now!