Ascites or Normal?

[TheCluckyClucker2]

I have a Sebright that just started laying at 9 months old. I have felt her keel bones and never noticed it before. In between her legs is kinda squishy. I really hope this is not ascites. She still acts fine and we have only got 2 eggs from her. She started laying this week. She is my favorite girl. If anyone wants pictures I can do that but there is no visible signs. Thank you an sorry if I didn't include enough info, it is late. Feel free to ask for more. I should mention they just switched from all flock to layer pellets. Happy New Year!

 

[Eggcessive]

It may just be her normal anatomy feeling the abdominal contents and fat. As long as she is active eating a drinking, I wouldn’t worry, but keep checking her and compare to other hens. Usually with water belly or ascites, the belly really protrudes out, and you may see yellow colored urates in the poops.

 

[TheCluckyClucker2]

I hope so. I have only had Cochins before and they have a bit different body style. I will begin to watch her more in her eating and drinking habits.

 

[TheCluckyClucker2]

I know it has been a few months but I wanted to follow up and say that I never learned if she had water belly or not. A few days after I posted this she was killed by a hawk.