Balloon-like swelling in front of crop on both sides of 'chest'

[jodievaughan]

I have read into it and it seems to me like it might be ascites, but this isn't a problem I've had with my hens before so I'm not sure. The swelling is very soft and feels fluidy. She prefers to sit in the nesting boxes all day at the moment, which I first thought was down to broodiness until I noticed the swelling. I've seen lethargy in hens before but that's not really how she's behaving, I think all the resting might be down to discomfort of carrying the growth around more than anything. She is still alert and is active when I bring her out at feeding times. She does eat by herself, just not as much as normal. She drinks plenty of water by herself too.

I've read that I should use a needle to drain the fluid from her, but as I said this isn't an issue I've experienced before so I would really appreciate anyone's insight on what I should do next. To be frank I know from experience that there are no vets anywhere near me who're good with chickens and I have more confidence in this community! I'd appreciate any help.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

The swelling is very soft and feels fluidy.

I think all the resting might be down to discomfort of carrying the growth around more than anything. She is still alert and is active when I bring her out at feeding times. She does eat by herself, just not as much as normal. She drinks plenty of water by herself too.

Please post some photos.

Where is the swelling - at her crop?
Check her crop to make sure it's emptying overnight (check in the morning before she's had anything to eat/drink).
If it's not emptying, then treat her for crop issues. https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...w-to-know-which-one-youre-dealing-with.73607/

Are you sure she's broody? Is she sitting on fertile eggs that you want to hatch?

If not, then take her from the nest. Check her over for lice/mites while you examine the crop.