Lethargic Chicken

[MTS Chooks]

We have had 3 hyline chickens for just over a year. Yesterday we noticed that one of them was particularly lethargic and not interested in food. She is generally the loner of the group but was definitely not her usual self. We have not changed any food. The last couple of weeks has been wet weather. Any hints as to what might be wrong?

 

[jbepko]

I have the same problem as we speak have you noticed a change in stool color or shape? Is the chicken just laying there are the eyes open or closed

 

[MTS Chooks]

'Red' has always had one funny eye which is closed a lot of the time - especially when you try to pick her up. She does still move around but is very slow and then will sit with her eyes closed like she is asleep. The stools that I have seen have been more solid then usual (but not sure if they are hers).

 

[jbepko]

I have the same problem going on I have no idea what the cause is yesterday "pecker" was fine running around she is usually like a guard dog and my side kick will walk around the whole yard by my side today walked into coop had to find her in her box just laying with her eyes closed minimal movement all day very liquid mucas like stool I'm nervous she won't make it thru the night

 

[gratzalk]

I've got one doing the same thing too. She's a New Hampshire and a reliable layer with huge eggs almost every day until about a week or two ago and she stopped laying. I've noticed today how she's quite lethargic and not interacting with anyone else. I was wondering if maybe she was possibly egg bound as her eggs are so large but I've felt around a few times and I don't think she is. And I just picked her up a bit ago and she feels feverish. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what may be the problem and/or what should be done?

 

[jbepko]

My chicken hasn't opened her eyes really at all and movement has been minimal I'm scared my girl won't make it thru the night

 

[heartsizedfarm]

Are they older girls? Mine have lots of "off" days where they want to sleep in and lounge about. Give them some special treats, like milk soaked bread or sunflower seeds, then see how they behave.

 

[heartsizedfarm]

If you believe she's seriously sick then bring her into the warmth of your home. A cardboard box, a towel, a safe space, a dropper full of electrolytes, a kiss goodnight, and she might be fine in the morning!

 

[gratzalk]

I went in to check on them in the coop and tell them good night and I held her (Becky) and she seemed very warm like she has a fever. Any guesses on that and what to do there?

 

[jbepko]

Unfournately pecker didn't make it thru the night she died last night I wish we could figure out the problem and fix it thanks for all your help