I think my chicken may be ill. Could someone please lend a hand

[classicgazza]

Hello,
I have, among other hens, a blue orpington that I think may be ill. She is the heaviest of our 5 birds and just lately she has been walking funny. She seems like she's walking on her "toes" and she also sits down and sleeps a lot during the day while the others are pecking around.
I had a look at the soles of her feet and they seem to be fine, no cuts or sores etc and she hasn't stopped her eating.

I'm just a bit worried about her walk and her sleeping more frequently.

I hope she's ok, but I thought someone may recognise these symptoms.

Thanks a lot.
Derek

 

[k2chickens]

has she been eating ok??

 

[emvickrey]

Is she sneezing or coughing, any runny nose? You can call the Dept of AG for your area and they can test for the bad and contagious desease for free. Mine have never gotten sick so I really don't know what could be wrong. Does she lay eggs and if so, has she laid lately? Maybe eggbound.

I have seen yogurt suggested for boosting the immune system. Plain yogurt. I give mine some from time to time to keep them from getting sick. I put it out with the treats. Some like it some don't.

 

[classicgazza]

Hi thanks for the quick replies,
She seems to have kept her appetite.
I've just spoken to a vet freind and he thinks it may be mites on her legs. He suggested spraying a little CRC on her legs before she goes to roost at night.
We'll see if this works, keep you posted.