I am having problems with one of my buff Orpington hens. She is swelled around her body.

[Steve2saint]

She has refused to go into the coop for the last 2nights. She seems lethargic. Does anyone have any suggestions from my poor description? Ask questions and I'll try and answer them. Tonight I have her in a warm room in my house. I have layer pellets and water. Right now she seems like she is sleeping.

 

[Bird_Lover_17]

Welcome to BYC! post this in the "emergencies" section for lots of help

This section is for issues with the website

 

[LikeTurkeys]

How old is she? Pictures are always helpful. A swollen abdomen could indicate ascites from a failing heart.

 

[Steve2saint]

She is almost 4 years old. Working on pic

 

[theoldchick]

https://www.hobbyfarms.com/6-causes-of-swollen-abdomen-in-chickens-2/

 

[Steve2saint]

I can't seem to get pic to work. Is there anything I can do for her?

 

[Steve2saint]

Thanks for the link. It was very helpful, but not too encouraging. Her name is Blondie, and is one of my favorites. Thanks again.

 

[LikeTurkeys]

I can't seem to get pic to work. Is there anything I can do for her?

Unfortunately, the outlook is not good. You can try draining it, here is link to some information on that. https://forum.thepoultrysite.com/discussion/21504/how-to-drain-a-hen

While I have never drained a chicken myself, I have lost chickens to ascites before. While draining can give them more time, they usually do not make it in the end as draining does not solve the underlying problem (usually organ failure of some sort).

 

[Steve2saint]

Thank you for all your replies. Seems like the best I can do is try and keep her comfortable. We have lost chickens before, and it's never easy. We keep a flock of about 12. They are all pets, and have names so it is like losing any other pet. She was one of the first chicks we bought. It is strange how they all have personalities. And you can really get attached to them..again, thank you all so much. And a big thank you to backyard chickens for moving my post to the emergency section. I am so glad you make this forum available.

 

[SulkyBantam]

We are here to help and support you.

Has the abdomen swollen very suddenly? When did you notice?

To post a pic, click Attach files in the bottom left hand of the reply.