Advice for draining water belly...

[The Chick Addict]

Hello,

I have a 3 year old hen with water belly that I have been draining for almost a year now. The most efficient way I have drained her is by doing so with a veterinary needle on the right side of her abdomen, it's always worked. However, these past two nights I've been trying to drain her again, but when I do it, either blood comes out or nothing at all. I'm a little concerned and would like to try taking her to the vet to be drained, but they're closed tomorrow and I don't know how long she'll hold out. Does anyone have any advice on if I'm doing something wrong when sticking the needle? Like I said, I've been doing it on her right side. The needle is also sharp and works well. I would really, really appreciate some input!

 

[Eggcessive]

It could be that there is infection or solid material inside there now. Have you tried draining on the other side? Here in post 4 of this thread below are some pictures of draining a hen where the needle is placed on the left side or center:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/ascites-in-desperate-need-of-some-help-and-guidance.853726/

 

[CCsGarden]

Here is a good article as well.
https://dailychickens.com/water-belly-ascites-in-chickens/

Sorry you are still dealing with your hen!

 

[CCsGarden]

Could it be that she isn't filling up anymore? Does she still feel swollen?

 

[The Chick Addict]

It could be that there is infection or solid material inside there now. Have you tried draining on the other side? Here in post 4 of this thread below are some pictures of draining a hen where the needle is placed on the left side or center:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/ascites-in-desperate-need-of-some-help-and-guidance.853726/

Here is a good article as well.
https://dailychickens.com/water-belly-ascites-in-chickens/

Sorry you are still dealing with your hen!

Thank you both! I am going to try again later today, and may try lower and nearer to the left.

Could it be that she isn't filling up anymore? Does she still feel swollen?

Yes, she's still very swollen! When I tried two days ago, a few drops of liquid came out through the needle but stopped. I'm positive though that she's very filled up.

 

[Eggcessive]

I usually have not drained my hens who had suspected water belly or swollen lower abs. The one bantam I chose to drain had sudden swelling and was very ill for the first time, at 11 yrs. The first draining was clear, the second time 4 days later was thicker, and the last time, very thick. She died a few days later. It helps to do a necropsy after we lose one to see what was going on. Pictures can be helpful. This particular hens had about 8 small fluid filled white sacs inside her little belly.