Lethargic Roo

[jeenov]

We recently put a new roof on the run to our chicken coop and after a big storm it ripped and caused lots of mud and didn’t dry as fast as usual because there hadn’t been sun in a few days. When going out to feed in the morning i noticed my two roos were acting very lethargic. i noticed my little roo had mud all over his face. i took them both in bathed them in warm water blew dry them and wrapped them in blankets. I assume the little roo hadn’t been eating because mud was in his nostrils and he ended up dying. my big roo was better, eating and drinking but not moving would just kind of sit in one place. He’s now in a tote w a blanket snuggled into himself and will open his eyes but just for a few seconds. pooping normal and still has food stored in chest. Any suggestions of what i should do or what it could be? I’m not sure if they are sick or just weak from being so heavy from the mud. HELP!

 

[azygous]

Hypothermia would be my guess. Chickens can withstand very cold temperatures as long as they are dry. But when they get wet, or their feathers get caked and compacted with mud, losing their loft, they can become seriously chilled.

I'm sorry you were too late in rewarming the smaller roo, but maybe the other one will pull through. Giving electrolytes isn't just for over heating and dehydration. It's also useful in treating shock, which is what your rooster is likely now suffering from now in spite of being warmed.

Gatoraid will work. So will Pedialyte. Or you can make your own electrolytes from water, sugar, salt, baking soda and a little Jello powder. Recipes are on the internet.