Cockerel can't put weight on leg

[salsss]

It's a hard choice. He's still in the living room. We have a local wildlife museum and I'm going to try to have their bird expert see him. But seeing that he's getting worse...I'm afraid there won't be a good outcome.

 

[Wickedchicken6]

That sounds like a good plan...if you can see him.

You mentioned he's getting worse? Worse as in the leg is worse or worse as in health and balance worse? Are you thinking it could be something else?

 

[Eggcessive]

It's a hard choice. He's still in the living room. We have a local wildlife museum and I'm going to try to have their bird expert see him. But seeing that he's getting worse...I'm afraid there won't be a good outcome.

You have received quite a bit of opinions. Giving him some time may help you decide what is best for him. Swelling of the hock joint can be a sign of a sprain, and sometimes a slipped tendon. I would only splint if he is trying to walk around and needs some stabilization. Remove it at times to let him bend the leg and help his circulation. Having him seen by a bird specialist would be helpful, but since he is an extra cockerel, I would use my own judgement on what to do.

 

[salsss]

Thanks to everyone for the options presented--I really appreciate it! I decided that a splint would make it worse for him, and have him on lots of towels with food and water right there. He's in the living room in a dog kennel with me.

I am conflicted about the extra cockerel thing...I like roosters but have a neighbor complaining. I do want to keep one (of the 3) though.

He does not try to walk on it--he hops. I see the swelling has gotten worse. Today is the day he goes to the museum, so we'll see!

 

[centrarchid]

How did he come out with respect to your parasite check? Sometimes it is best not to get overly vested in one possible cause of problem.

 

[salsss]

How did he come out with respect to your parasite check? Sometimes it is best not to get overly vested in one possible cause of problem.

He was dusted a week ago. I had found mites on one chicken of 20.

His hock is definitely warm and swollen.

The technician sent him home with DSMO; she has had good luck using it with birds. He already seems more comfortable. A few days will see what if any improvements happen!