Hen limping

[JaeG]

One of our hens has started limping. I noticed it last night. I've checked her foot and there is no heat, no scratch, no puncture and no swelling. She's the leader of the flock and she seems normal in every other way - she's still eating and getting about, just a little slower than usual and she holds one foot up, not wanting to put pressure on it.

I'm just wondering if there's any benefit to her if I separate her, or should I leave her be? They live in a secure run and it's winter where I am so she's not laying. I can only assume she's landed funny when getting off the roost. I'd love some advice.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I generally leave everyone together unless they are being harassed. Is it an older hen?

 

[JaeG]

I generally leave everyone together unless they are being harassed. Is it an older hen?

Hi OHLD. She'd be about 3 and a half years old now. I don't want to take her out if I don't need to and I'm not sure she'd appreciate being confined to a small cage. I was very worried I was going to find a sore on her foot, but thankfully I can't see a mark on her.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I would leave her be and see how it goes, a strain or sprain should slowly improve. I asked about age because sometimes they can get a bit of arthritis, but your girl isn't too old yet.