Heat Sensitive Hen

[FluffyButtBabies]

I have a hen named Gwarpy, and this is her first real summer as an adult. She's a Faverolle with some disabilities, one such being that she has an incredibly small comb (almost like a chick). That's problematic because I'm pretty sure chickens use their combs to regulate body heat. Faverolles in general are winter chickens with feathered feet and faces, so it's hard for them when the summer months roll around. But Gwarp seems to have an extreme heat sensitivity and will start panting and slowing down at only 80 degrees. I don't really know what to do to help her. I have a fan in the coop which is also very well ventilated, they have ample shade, and a constant supply of water. For Gwarpy, I even dip her legs in cool water to help her get through the day. But now the temps are getting even higher, and I don't know what else to do other than keep her inside. I really love this bird and I couldn't stand losing her. How do I keep her from overheating? I've tried everything.

 

[cherrynberry]

I have a hen named Gwarpy, and this is her first real summer as an adult. She's a Faverolle with some disabilities, one such being that she has an incredibly small comb (almost like a chick). That's problematic because I'm pretty sure chickens use their combs to regulate body heat. Faverolles in general are winter chickens with feathered feet and faces, so it's hard for them when the summer months roll around. But Gwarp seems to have an extreme heat sensitivity and will start panting and slowing down at only 80 degrees. I don't really know what to do to help her. I have a fan in the coop which is also very well ventilated, they have ample shade, and a constant supply of water. For Gwarpy, I even dip her legs in cool water to help her get through the day. But now the temps are getting even higher, and I don't know what else to do other than keep her inside. I really love this bird and I couldn't stand losing her. How do I keep her from overheating? I've tried everything.

Feed cold veggies, add ice into the water, and provide a cool dust bathe...

 

[aart]

They have to get used to the heat, just like we do.
Panting is normal, next step will be holding wings away from body.
It's when they stop moving around enough to be interested in treats that I start to worry.

I've found that EL and ice blocks really help.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/aarts-extreme-weather-spiel.75893/

 

[FluffyButtBabies]

Well that's what I mean. Most of my hens will pant a bit but they're fine. Gwarp holds her wings far from her body, lowers her head, and doesn't move at all if the temperature gets anywhere close to 84. When I say she can't take the heat, I mean she REALLY can't take it.

 

[aart]

Well that's what I mean. Most of my hens will pant a bit but they're fine. Gwarp holds her wings far from her body, lowers her head, and doesn't move at all if the temperature gets anywhere close to 84. When I say she can't take the heat, I mean she REALLY can't take it.

Get some electrolytes into her.
I don't know of anything else you can do, other than make her a house chicken.