I've been draining a hen with ascites. She seems her chipper, happy self after each draining.
I know this isn't a cure. I've read enough to realize what is inevitable.
My question...For those with experience, aside from obviously a living creature becoming unhappy or miserable suffering, (she's not at that point, yet)
What should I look for?
How about the amount I drain..what does it increase to?
Or how often to drain?
Weekly?
In 1 week, 130 mLs has accumulated...that's what's going on right now.
I've heard some hens get drained monthly, then more often as time goes on & more fluid accumulates.
She is a sweet EE, at least 6 yrs old.
I drained 100 mLs last night & 30 mLs tonight because I knew there was some left from last night, & I didn't want to drain too much at once.
I'm draining weekly...is that OK?
She doesn't even mind being drained. To her, it's another opportunity to be on my lap. Spice is such a sweet hen.
Just wondering if you can share your experiences. I know eventually she must be put down & I don't want her to suffer. She's been fine with her friends in the coop, even bossy with some young hens. I do have a hospital cage for her to get some peace as well, immediately after draining.
I've been in scenarios where I had to drain a very ill person's pleural area...the more fluid, more often, meant the end was approaching.
What amount & how often was your experience with this ascites chicken condition?
100 mLs seems like a lot to me. Is the end near?
Ok, thanks.
I know this isn't a cure. I've read enough to realize what is inevitable.
My question...For those with experience, aside from obviously a living creature becoming unhappy or miserable suffering, (she's not at that point, yet)
What should I look for?
How about the amount I drain..what does it increase to?
Or how often to drain?
Weekly?
In 1 week, 130 mLs has accumulated...that's what's going on right now.
I've heard some hens get drained monthly, then more often as time goes on & more fluid accumulates.
She is a sweet EE, at least 6 yrs old.
I drained 100 mLs last night & 30 mLs tonight because I knew there was some left from last night, & I didn't want to drain too much at once.
I'm draining weekly...is that OK?
She doesn't even mind being drained. To her, it's another opportunity to be on my lap. Spice is such a sweet hen.

Just wondering if you can share your experiences. I know eventually she must be put down & I don't want her to suffer. She's been fine with her friends in the coop, even bossy with some young hens. I do have a hospital cage for her to get some peace as well, immediately after draining.
I've been in scenarios where I had to drain a very ill person's pleural area...the more fluid, more often, meant the end was approaching.
What amount & how often was your experience with this ascites chicken condition?
100 mLs seems like a lot to me. Is the end near?
Ok, thanks.
