Chickens panting but won't drink water - in coop after dark

[luckylefty]

I've been keeping chickens for several years now. I have had chickens pant before, but they always drink water. I have two hens out in the coop now (after dark) who are sort of panting ... just opening their beaks and stretching out their neck, almost like they are having trouble breathing. There is no obstruction in their throat.

Both hens have been out free-ranging all day, and have not had any issues. It was 88 today, the hottest day that we've had so far, but they had access to food, water, and shade as needed.

One would not eat or drink and the other (also a mother of 3 chicks right now) won't eat or drink. I want to help them if I can, but I don't want to overreact if its not a big deal.

I plan to get some more electrolytes and give that to them tomorrow. Any other advice, especially on how to get the hens to drink?

Thanks!

 

[Eggcessive]

In hot weather I will use big flat pans of water (hog pans) for them to walk through, cool their feet, and drink from. I have used frozen water bottles or ice in their water on very hot days. Can you put a light on a timer to go off after they roost? My chickens come inside the coop, and usually get a last-minute bite to eat and a drink before hopping up to the roost.

 

[luckylefty]

Thanks for your advice! Just realized I never responded here! I love the idea of having a "cooling station" for them to walk through. I still haven't tried it because I didn't have big, flat pans. However, I did try the cooler water for them, which they seem to like! We do have a little battery powered push light in the coop that I started using to help them have a little extra time to eat/drink before putting themselves to bed too. I really appreciate the advice!