Feathers pulled -- treat or not to treat?

[kshusta]

One of our chickens was attacked by a predator... feathers pulled from back, chest, and rear. Skin, fortunately, is not broken from what I can see.

(1) Exposed, raw, but not broken skin --> Is there an ointment to be applied to this exposed, raw skin – or should I just leave it alone? My daughter thinks a sweater will prevent chilling from having this unprotected skin exposed to the air till the feathers can grow back.

(2) Mental trauma --> Mentally, however, her condition is critical -- she just stands and stares right now and, as of yet, hasn’t eaten. We held and comforted her for over an hour when we first found her, but she is still clearly emotionally traumatized.

 

[coach723]

She is in shock, and that can be severe. Electrolites in her water can help, she needs to stay hydrated. Put her in a warm, very low light, quiet area, and give her some time. Too much handling can make the shock worse. Shock can make them hypothermic, so make sure she stays warm. If she doesn't start to drink on her own you may have to help. Give her regular feed, and offer some chopped up boiled egg or tuna, but drinking is much more important than eating at first.
If there is no broken skin, then I would just clean it with saline, chlorhexadine, or dawn dish soap. Veterycin wound and skin care spray is good to use for cleaning also, you can use some plain neosporin ointment if needed on the raw areas (no -cain in it). I would not 'bathe' a chicken that is in shock. If there are no internal injuries, she should recover given time.
If the sun or temperature is a concern you can use a hen saddle (http://www.hensaver.com/ is one example, you can also make them) to protect her back, but I would not put that over any wounds as it might cause more irritation. I would keep her in a warm place until she's completely healed and back to normal before returning her to the flock. Unless you are in a place that is really cold she should be OK once she's healed up.
Depending on the feather loss she may not refeather until the next molt. If you choose to use something to protect her back, tightly woven fabric is better than loosely woven or knits that pin feathers can get caught in.
Hope she recovers.

 

[Ursuline Chick]

Above is great advice for hen's shock. I would be concerned about the predator though. Set traps, cameras, etc, what ever works for you and your family. But I would try to make sure no others in your flock are hurt. Also check for ways into your coop/roosting area and repair them. Good luck

 

[kshusta]

️Thank you. ️Thank you... so much for taking the time to prepare these caring replies.

 

[Ursuline Chick]

That's what this site is mainly about. You are welcome, and I assume you are new so, welcome to BYC, as well.

 

[coach723]

You are very welcome, and I hope the info helps.
Keep us posted on how she does.