Big belly chick

[Dimondel]

Not sure if this should be in diseases/injuries.
My 2 day old chicken has an overly large belly and is very sleepy. The belly button is not infected and it’s having trouble walking. I know these are really bad signs and that it’s probably going to die, but is there anything I can do for it? I’ll try and get some pictures later.

 

[Dimondel]

I’m thinking it’s water belly, and it feels like she’s gonna pop. I don’t think it’ll make it in time for any vet advice tomorrow. I don’t have a syringe with a needle, is there anything I can do??

 

[RosemaryDuck]

I’m thinking it’s water belly, and it feels like she’s gonna pop. I don’t think it’ll make it in time for any vet advice tomorrow. I don’t have a syringe with a needle, is there anything I can do??

Water belly is caused by heart/liver failure which usually occurs in older birds. I don't believe it can occur in birds as young as 2 days.

https://thecapecoop.com/water-belly-ascetis-in-chickens/

If you could post some pictures it would help a lot. I'll tag some users for you. Best wishes to you & your little one!

@Miss Lydia
@Eggcessive
@azygous

 

[Dimondel]

I did something very rash, but the life was draining from it and I felt I had to do something. I sterilised a needle and poked a hole in the squishy bit on the right side next to its butt. I managed to drain a bit of the fluid, leaving a bit as I heard they can go into shock. I’ve since cleaned the would with antiseptic and am using some toilet paper as a bandage. I’m keeping it warm and it’s head upright. I’m sorry if I’ve done something that has hurt it, I just felt like doing nothing was no an option.

What came out was a yellow liquid, which I assume to be egg yolk.

 

[Dimondel]

It’s hard to tell, but it was like a small balloon ready to pop

 

[Cynthia12]

Ahh.. sounds like it isn't absorbing the yolk.

 

[Dimondel]

It just died in my arms, is it my fault? I’m so sorry baby and everyone.

 

[Ohregano]

I wouldn't beat yourself up too much. You were doing what you felt would help, and the chick may very well have died either way. You may have even helped it pass faster.

 

[Dimondel]

Is an unabsorbed yolk sac curable? How long would it if lasted if I hadn’t intervened?