Hen Wheezing

[ChickenPeep]

Hi everyone,
I woke up this morning to my hen squeaking. Yes, squeaking. I thought it was funny but then I realized that she was trying to cluck and was squeaking instead. I went to get her and she makes this noise every time she inhales and exhales. It's not a sound coming from her lungs or throat, it's her voice. I tried to give her water so see if it would wash something down but it didn't help. She doesn't seem to be in distress that I notice but this is concerning. The only thing I can think of is that she maybe inhaled a pine chip or a piece of food or something. My sister made the analogy that she sounds like a dog toy that you squeeze and release gently. I'm not really sure if I should be concerned or not. She seems okay but I'm afraid it could get worse. Does anyone have any idea what's going on or have any advice for me?

Thanks

 

[Eggcessive]

The sound she is making is know as stridor, which is due to something partially blocking her airway, such as a piece of food, a foreign object, tissue, or mucus. More than likely she will cough it up, but keep an eye on her. I have one hen who is a hog, and she does that occasionally. If it persists, I would look inside her throat with a flashlight, and watch her for any symptoms of a respiratory infection.

 

[Beth77]

You must get her to the vets, it sounds like sour crop or some kind of infection. I've lost two chickens after having similar symptoms.

 

[Eggcessive]

Chicken Peep, how is your hen doing? Has the sound diminished or is she still having it?

 

[ChickenPeep]

@Eggcessive Thank you very much for your response! Sorry I took so long in responding. The sound disappeared within a few hours and she is completely fine now. Thanks for your concern!