2 yr old Barred Rock hen acting unsteady

[Oregonchix]

Two year old hen, Barred Rock, is acting a little unsteady today. She occasionally shakes her head. When she walks, it resembles someone who has had one drink too many. I have four others who are acting normally, although several are molting in various stages, this one included. She seems to be eating and drinking normally. I feed Purina layena pellets so assume vitamins are o.k. I also allow them to free range several days a week.

Read forums suggesting possibly Vitamin B deficiency or even Marek's disease. I have never treated for worms or mites and have never observed problems (although I will admit I'm certainly no expert!)

Anyone have any advice for me to follow? I was going to purchase some baby vitamins and try that but any help is very appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Eggcessive]

Have you added any new birds to your flock recently? If not I would doubt that it is Mareks. It could be a vitamin deficiency or just a part of her molt. This year my 2-4 1/2 year old chickens have had pretty tough molts, and haven't been eating well. I would put some electrolytes in her water that contain poultry vitamins. Feed her some chopped egg or some tuna along with her feed.

 

[Oregonchix]

Thanks for the reply. No, I haven't added any birds (I only have 5) and mine have been remarkably healthy since I raised them from chicks. I will get some vitamins and also feed them more protein--I had wondered a little about that anyway. It's certainly worth a try. Thanks very much.

 

[Oregonchix]

I just wanted to thank you (meant to a long time ago!) for your advice. I got some electrolytes and that perked up that wobbly bird as well as I'm sure helping the others. Thanks so much for sharing your experience. My girls are all happy and healthy and loving Spring!

 

[Eggcessive]

You're welcome. I'm glad that your chickens are doing well.