Hen is lethargic, with a dark comb and wattles

[Poultry parent]

Hi!
I've just noticed that my 2 year old Buff Orpington has been acting odd.
She doesn't come when I toss scratch on the ground anymore.
She sits in the shade while the other chickens forage.
Her comb and wattles are also seeming darker than they used to be.
About 6 months ago some new chicken brought lice to the flock, she and a few others got them. I did bathe her, and the others that had lice, but they seem to have come back.
Would the lice have to do with her problems? I know that they can cause anemia, but her comb is darker not lighter.
Any help is greatly appreciated!

 

[TheTwoRoos]

Probably has something to do with your situation.I would defiantly treat all birds with permithian spray.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

It would be a good idea to treat your flock with a permethrin based poultry dust or spray.

It's possible a large infestation can cause anemia, but usually the darkening of combs/wattles is an indication of not enough oxygen and/or organ failure. Feel her abdomen to see if there is any bloat, swelling, feeling like a fluid filled balloon, etc. Sometimes reproductive/internal laying disorders can cause difficulty breathing/loss of oxygen due to fluid/egg masses placing pressure on vital organs.

Try your best to keep her hydrated, offer her some poultry vitamins and see that she is eating.

Another thought...examine her well - check her crop to see if it's emptying overnight too.

Keep us posted.

 

[Poultry parent]

I just felt her abdomen, and it does feel a little swollen in comparison with a hen of Similar size, but I'm not really sure, as if it is swollen, it's not much.
I clipped some of the feathers near her vent, and sprayed her for lice

 

[Poultry parent]

I'd just like to let you all know that she passed away, due to what I believe was a heart attack. She lived a wonderful life, and did enjoy it.