I guess she is giving up. 6 week old pullet had leg control problems, began to recover, now relapse

[DarkWater1929]

Hi! Help!?!

Friend's mom bought a dozen chicks at the local feed store. All were fine until one day, several weeks later, one was flat on her side, unable to stand or walk. They brought her to me for help.

I made her a sling, gave her food (chick starter) and water, which she gobbled as though needed them badly, and kept her with me, dangling from the handle of an Easter basket, so that her feet reach the bottom, and she could get her food and water

Within 2-3 days, she was walking just fine! I let her play outside in the sun for a while. She was so happy! When she got spooked by tractor noises, we came in.

I left her apparently content in my room. Last night, at bedtime, she could not stand. This morning, she is flat on her side again. She tried to eat and drink a little, but seems less willing to try than before.

My first thought on the day she came, was Marek's But, her legs are together. Also, can Marek's ebb and flow like that?

Vitamin deficiency?

Dehydration?

I am stumped, and so afraid I will loose her!

She now seems to be having trouble getting enough air.

 

[DarkWater1929]

This doesn't sound familiar to anyone, huh? I am, and have been, sitting with her. She is ravenously hungry, but for some reason, is having trouble. She sometimes can find the food, and swallow it, and sometimes not. She seems crazy- thirsty, but when I put water to her beak, she shakes her head, and flings it everywhere. When I soak some food and offer it, she loves that!

Also, she smells funny. More like a sick human, or a sick dog or cat, than a sick chicken. Her backside has a very unpleasant, acidic sort of poppy smell.

Does any of this ring a bell for anyone? I really like this little bird. And she is fighting so hard for herself I am willing to do a lot for a critter that wants to live, and she sure does!

Again, I will be grateful for any input.

Thank you!