I think my chicken is sick, what can I do?

[Hoangsa1269]

There has been cold temperatures (40F-60F) for the last few weeks and I think my hen has caught a cold. She has not been running around and feeling energetic, and goes to her coop early in the afternoon at around 1 am. She is 7 years old but has been feeling fine and eating normal. Symptoms appeared 3 days ago, after she had gotten out of her coop and spent the night outside. Is molting and losing a lot of feathers, and I find her shivering at night. I have brought her inside for the night and keeping her in the garage. She is still eating fine but just wants to sit inside all day. She normally lays few eggs, previous one was a week ago.

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC. Most hens stop laying while molting. Keep her warm, dry and well fed. Higher protein feed can help with the molt and feather regrowth.

 

[The Chickens' Maid]

It sounds like she's hitting old age and these temps aren't as easy for her to handle. Molting is probably making her a little weak, too. Keeping her inside is the right thing to do, just make sure she gets some exercise.

 

[Teila]

Hey Hoangsa1269

I have a 5 year old hen who suffers miserably during a moult, lethargic, staying away from the rest of the flock etc but she is fine again once over the worse.

As sour and The Chickens’ Maid have suggested, hopefully with some warmth, increased protein and TLC, she will be feeling much better very soon

 

[micstrachan]

I agree heading into molt is a possibility. Maybe it’s harder on them when they’re older? I have hens and pullets who all felt/feel lousy while molting.