HELP! My 3 week old light brahma is lame.

[Magoonichicks]

I have 22 baby chicks that are 3 weeks old and one of the light brahmas is acting lame. She doesn't stand up straight and is hunched over all the time. She walks very unsteadily and even the slightest contact made by another chick knocks her over. I'm worried about her, anyone know what it might be and how I can help her??

Amanda

 

[minihorse927]

Have you picked her up? Is she thin? Is there anything else wrong(sneezing, coughing, snotty nose, bubbly eyes?)
Lethargic? Feathers ruffled as if she is cold,

 

[Eggsoteric]

At this age and as a precaution, I would start treatment for coccidiosis for all. If you can get a hold of Corid, I'd start treating asap. Please see casportpony's post re dosage:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1052451/corid-treatment-questions-please-help

Best of luck.

 

[Magoonichicks]

yes I have held her a bit. I have not noticed and sneezing, runny nose or eye issues. she's just lame. very weak in the legs. and her feathers do look ruffled a lot.

 

[minihorse927]

I would start treatment on the entire group immediately for coccidiosis. Corid or amprolium is the preferred treatment. It comes in powder form and liquid. Dosages are 1.25 to 1.5tsp for powder per gallon of water and the liquid is 8 to 10 cc per gallon of water. I would do this ASAP.

 

[Magoonichicks]

Thank you, I will call around and find out who has corid or amprolium.

 

[Magoonichicks]

what are the chances it's Mareks disease? and should I isolate her from the rest of the flock?

 

[minihorse927]

Have you had a previous history of mareks? Mareks spreads quick and doesn't generally affect one bird. Cocci on the others hand can hit one hard and barely the rest