Chicken won't put weight on one leg

[boatagor]

I have a 5.5 year old buff orpington that came out of the coop today unable to walk on one of her legs. It's not red or swollen. It is a bit warm but I think that's from holding it against her body. She drank some water but isn't eating. She's a bit puffed up but otherwise doesn't seem stressed at all. I brought her in the house in a dog crate to monitor her. Any ideas what could be wrong?

 

[Eggcessive]

Is she holding it up or trying to put weight on it when she walks? Is there any swelling, redness, or green bruising on the leg, or bumblefoot scab on the foot pads? Hopefully, it is just a mild sprain, but I would keep her from jumping. Watch her today, and let us know how she is doing. Pictures can help. Have you added any new birds recently? Does she lay eggs?

 

[Cat Ballou]

As soon as weather permits (or bring her inside until she’s dry) give her an epsom salt bath. It’s powerful medicine for muscles, joints, ligaments, and overall health.

 

[Redheadchickenlover]

Hi, check her pad on her foot and see if there is any wounds. Also if you do find a wound on the pad she could have infection.

 

[theoldchick]

Could be a number of things. Get your hands on her and examine her closely. Look for the usual issues, wounds, bruises and so forth. If nothing is visible, she may have injured her leg, have a nutritional issue, or have a viral infection such as mareks.