HELP ! sick cockerel can't stand up !

[George Mitchell]

My cockerel has been ill for a while but this evening i found him on his side, he can't stand up by himself ! i have other threads with information on them about his symptoms. i need help quick !

 

[Matt H]

Have you had a fecal float done for coccidiosus?

 

[George Mitchell]

no, there are no vets here that do them where i live

 

[Matt H]

Prior symptoms if I may ask? And are other flock members sick? What have you ruled out as a cause?

 

[George Mitchell]

lethargic, pale face, hunched over puffed up, stumbling around, not eating and drinking much, diarrhea.
no other chickens sick. its not worms ( worms make chickens lose weight rapidly ) not mites ( haven't found any ) he has a soft crop ( no crop problem )

 

[chickens really]

Sounds like possible Mereks???

 

[Matt H]

Sounds like my Barred Rock Pullet. I took every reasonable course of action with no improvement...antibiotics, Corid, dewormed, forced fluids and solids. I found her laying on her side under the hanging feeder, just barely alive. She was the only sick one of the bunch.

 

[George Mitchell]

what happened to her ? and if she died what was it ?

 

[Matt H]

After the six week process of trying everything suggested. I did what I was taught by my Dad whom raised poultry. Hopefully someone on this very informative forum will have an alternative.

 

[Matt H]

I do wish you the best sir.