Chicken With Abscess

[Mamaschickies]

My 3 month old hen was attacked a few days ago and yesterday I noticed a draining abscess on her chest area. I treated with peroxide and today I cleaned the area agin and she doesn’t appear to be doing better. She is a bit listless and is having trouble walking on the side the injury is on. Is there anything else I can do? I did see her eat and drink a little.

 

[FluffyButtBabies]

I would use peroxide very sparingly. Often in chickens it does more harm than good. How deep is the injury? Is is infected? See if there is any pus, and gently attempt to squeeze it out (not too hard though, if nothing is there or gives, leave it). I would apply Neosporin on the area. Separate her out from the other chickens, so they don't pick at the area. Her lethargy and such might come from her being stressed or in pain. However, she might also have some internal injury or infection you haven't noticed, in which case there isn't much you can do. Can you post a picture of the injury?

 

[Eggcessive]

Yes, pictures can really help. Is she eating and drinking? Is the crop involved? I second the recommendation to stop the peroxide, since it may damage tissue with repeated use. Since you are dealing with an abscess, you should try to flush out the wound with saline, Hibiclens (chlorhexidene) mixed half with water, or weak Betadine. Then use plain antibiotic ointment. Do this twice a day. A turkey baster, syringe without a needle, or a kitchen sprayer can be good to use to flush a wound, but not too much pressure.