Lameness or muscle weakness?

floridahenhouse

Hatching
May 30, 2016
4
0
7
We have an Ameraucana rooster that is suddenly unable to stand up. He "walks" around on his legs but cannot stand. Inspection does not show any injuries; he eats and drinks water; seems normal except for an inability to stand. Anyone know what may be the cause?
 
How old is the rooster? Do you know if he was vaccinated for Marek's disease? It could be a vitamin deficiency, in which case you could try offering him some poultry vitamins or Polyvisol infant vitamins (without iron).

Or, it could be that he has Marek's disease, which is a neurological, viral disease often characterized by gradual paralysis of legs, wings, and other body parts. Many birds affected with Marek's eat and drink normally, at least at first--the only symptom is that they can't move one or both legs properly. Unfortunately, Marek's is typically fatal, as there is no know effective treatment. Birds may waste away and die on their own, or be humanely culled.

Good luck with him. I'm sorry I can't offer any more positive suggestions.
hugs.gif
 
Last edited:
X2 on the vitamins. Riboflavin deficiency can be common in chickens, and symptoms include walking on the hocks or elbows and curling under of toes. This can lead to curled toe paralysis if vitamin B 2 (riboflavin) is not given. Poultry vitamins from a feed store, human B complex crushed onto food, baby vitamins, or foods rich in riboflavin can be given. Hopefully, it is not Mareks disease. Please keep us updated on his condition.
 

New posts New threads Active threads

Back
Top Bottom