HEN STANDING/ACTING WEIRD

[Eggcessive]

Here are some articles to read about reproductive disorders:
http://www.chickenvet.co.uk/health-and-common-diseases/egg-laying-issues/index.aspx

http://www.poultrydvm.com/condition/egg-peritonitis

http://www.theveterinaryexpert.com/backyard-poultry/egg-yolk-peritonitis/

 

[stephcraig78]

Well we had great hope for our Blackie. She was roaming with the flock daily, eating, drinking, and even roosting on the pole next to her best friend Buffy. She went into to the outside run like normal yesterday and I noticed her laying around a lot. It was very hot so figured she was trying to stay cool in the dirt. Then when we let them out into the yard she stayed laying in run. Didn’t move all evening. Night was coming and as we went into the run to get her in the coop we realized she had passed away. We were close to ending her suffering ourselves but thankfully nature took it course and saved us the emotional pain of it all. She was our daughters first bird and one of all of our favorites. She will be greatly missed by the whole family. Thank you all for the wonderful information that helped us understand what was going on inside her.

 

[stephcraig78]

But on the bright side I just found this under our silkie hen!! Along with 3 more ready to hatch any time!

 

[Eggcessive]

So sorry for your loss. Sometimes I do a necropsy on a hen just to see what all was going on inside. It can be really educational to see whatever was causing the problems. I have been surprised to find things, such as a large lash egg from salpingitis, oviduct cancer, fatty liver disease, ascites or water belly, and a gizzard blockage. It is hard to do on a pet, but it helps to recognize symptoms earlier in other birds. If a necropsy is done, take pictures to share her for any ideas. The state vet can do a professional necropsy to give a diagnosis, if the body is promptly refrigerated and shipped or taken to the lab.

 

[rebrascora]

I'm so sorry to hear she passed. One of the few occasions when I would have been more than happy to have been wrong.
I too find doing necropsies on chickens helpful in understanding and learning about these ailments. Even with no medical training, it is surprising how often you can pin point a problem that most likely caused death. You can also gain information from it which may be beneficial for the rest of your flock...... things like Fatty Liver disease can indicate that a dietary change would be advisable or a heavy worm infestation would indicate that it is time to deworm your flock etc. I also appreciate that it is not something that many people can get their head around doing. If you feel that you could try it, then feel free to ask for guidance, but entirely understand if you just want to give her a decent burial.

 

[rebrascora]

PS. Love the fact that you have chicks hatching on the day she died..... a reminder of the circle of life! How cute is that chick!!

 

[stephcraig78]

I was very tempted to do autopsy but the kids would of been totally upset with the idea. They buried her quickly after finding her right next to our first buff orp that passed last fall. And yes the chick is great and helps tremendously to take their minds off of the loss. Hoping the rest hatch tomorrow or over night tonight. Thank you all for your help and your kindness.

 

[EggSighted4Life]

Very sorry for your kids and your loss. So glad you didn't have to make the decision.

Thanks for sharing the good news too!