Ascites

[AustralorpLover1004]

Hello, I’m 99% sure my Australorp mix has water belly, or ascites. Her belly feels like a water balloon ready to burst. Is an 18 gauge needle okay for draining it?

 

[Isaac 0]

For temporary alleviation of the distention, you can use an 18 gauge needle. Note the word temporary; ascites is a symptom rather than a disease itself and indicates problems either of the cardiovascular, and or hepatic system. The decline in those regions can be due to reproductive problems, infections, organ failure, cancers, tumors, etc. Draining the fluids from the abdominal area often benefits the bird, but there are chances the bird may pass of shock, or later infection while doing the procedure

Spoiler: Draining Ascites