Hoarse Hen

[PlainChicks]

My favorite hen has changed overnight. She’s usually loud, very talkative and social with me and the other hens. Today her voice sounds hoarse and scratchy and she’s not talkative just some sad noises. She’s also grumpy and going after the other girls. They are all about 21 weeks and are just laying their first eggs. Nothing has changed in their coop or run. Her crop feels fine and she active, eating and drinking as usual....What does it mean? Is she sick? What do I need to do??? Thank you for any and all help or advice!

 

[Eggcessive]

It could be that her voice is changing since she has grown up. But I would look at your coop air so that there is good air circulation, no wet areas that could lead to mold, and prevent dust. If the air is stuffy, make more windows. Hot air inside coops is another thing that can lead to respiratory diseases. Look for watery eyes, nasal drainage, or labored breathing. Hopefully, she is just getting ready to lay, or getting used to it.

 

[PlainChicks]

Thank you! The coop is well ventilated and we’re in CO so hot dry, no mold. On warm days I open the human door to the coop in addition to a windo and the chicken door. Eyes are clear and I don’t hear any breathing issues. Hopefully you’re righ and she is just “hormonal”. I miss my loud sweet girl!

 

[PlainChicks]

Just wanted to post an update Incase anyone else has this problem. I gave my hen some VetRX, under her wings and on her beak and a little in the water. In an hour her voice was a little better. Today she is back to her normal noisy self. She also laid her first egg yesterday. So, not exactly sure which cured her but I’m glad to have her back to herself!

 

[Eggcessive]

Glad that she laid her egg and is acting normally.