HELP ASAP! Hen may have a pneumo

[Hep44]

We had an attack last night (likely fox) and we just realized this morning one of our hens is injured. She has a couple wounds on her back and on her chest. Her breathing sounds wet, and she has some crepetis in her abdomen/chest. I think she may have a pneumo or hemothorax. Is there anything we can do? I have cleaned the wounds with warm water and Epson salt, painted them with betadine, tried to seal the larger back wound with an occlusion dressing, and put gauze over it. Now I just have her wrapped up in a towel and am holding her, trying to let her rest. Any advice?

 

[HeatherKellyB]

I'm so sorry your post was missed. How is your hen doing now?

 

[LaFleche]

If she is still alive, I would get her some antibiotics and prop her up with a rolled up towel (like a swin ring) underneath her breast to stabilize and allow for easier breathing.

 

[Hep44]

She is doing surprisingly well. I ended up sealing off the wound with a hydrocolloid dressing and a tegaderm. Her breathing still sounds off, and she has been coughing, but she is alert, walking, has been eating/pooping, even laid an egg the other day. I'm cautiously optimistic, but I don't think we're out of the woods yet

 

[Hep44]

Can you get antibiotics at a farm store or pet store?

 

[HeatherKellyB]

Can you get antibiotics at a farm store or pet store?

Oftentimes you can. Are you in the USA?

 

[HeatherKellyB]

I suspect you'll need a broad spectrum antibiotic @LaFleche what do you think?

 

[Hep44]

Yes, I live in Michigan

 

[LaFleche]

I suspect you'll need a broad spectrum antibiotic @LaFleche what do you thinkn?

Yes, fox teeth carry nasty pathogens.

 

[Hep44]

This was the day after I applied the dressing