drooped tail

[zzcwboy]

One of my hens all of a sudden stopped walking with her tail pointing up. Its almost like a dog with its tail between its legs after a scolding. She acts,eats,and lays eggs normal but walks just a little bit slower. Normal poop,but her butt is puffy and slighty bald. What is causing her to droop down like this? I'm very concerned that she might be sick.

 

[Eggcessive]

Welcome to BYC. How old is she? Can you feel inside her vent 1 inch for a stuck egg? If she is 2 years or older, internal laying and tumors can be common. Has she lost weight in her chest? Is her lower abdomen swollenlike there could be fluid in her belly? Pictures can always help.

 

[zzcwboy]

Eggcessive...the hen is 18 months and laid an egg yesterday and today. She eats good. She acts good. But... Its really strange how she tucks her tail downward and acts like a whipped pup. I hope she is not sick again...she had a bad case of gout about 2 months ago,where she sounded like she couldnt breath. She was making loud whining gasping noises. I appreciate any help.

 

[Eggcessive]

Is it hot where you live now? She might be dehydrated or having signs of heat exhaustion. Electrolytes added to the water, along with extra water stations in the shade can help. A flat pan of water to stand in to cool legs is also good. Her gasping and shortness of breath symptoms sound more like a possible respiratory problem, such as aspergillosis from mold.

 

[zzcwboy]

Thanks for giving me ideas,Eggcessive. I appreciate your help.