Larthargic, heavy breathing, off balance hen!!!

[Smithville Farm]

My Buff Orph is acting sick. I'm afraid it might be EYP. She is about 21 weeks old, my other hens that age are just starting to lay eggs. (I'm a first time chicken owner, so I don't know much) We thought she was acting funny because she was getting ready to lay, but this seems different.

Her tail is down and when I hold her she seems to sit in my hands or fall to the side...as if she can't balance herself. We first noticed this last night. I gloved up this morning and checked for an egg, but didn't feel anything. I set her in the nesting box with food and water but now she's out and under our shed with the rest of the flock. I can't get to her. She looks sleepy and is breathing heavy.

Is it inevitable?

 

[Smithville Farm]

She is now acting paralyzed. I set her by the water (because she can't seem to walk or stand) and she's not drinking. Face & comb look pale/grey.

 

[Suzie]

Sorry to say but it does sound as if she has major problems - she could be suffering from any number of illnesses - I only hope that somebody with more experience here can help you.

Suzie

 

[Smithville Farm]

I think you're right. We are afraid lil Lucy won't be alive in the morning. I tried giving her scrambled eggs, and put her in a warm place by herself with water and food close by. It doesn't look good....