Lonely Hen

[alex_s]

We've had some bad luck recently resulting in a few chicken deaths. We're now left with a very lonely, sick hen and an unwell chic (perhaps the carrier of whatever killed the others).

Since becoming unwell and losing her companion, the older hen has become very solemn, nervy and generally unhappy. We'd love to mix both the hen and (very neurotic) chic but as its getting cold the chic isn't old enough to live outside. Also, if we bring in new hens at this stage I fear they may become ill.

Both are currently on antibiotics (Tylan) and we hope all will clear up so we can pair them together outside within the next month. In the meantime, does anyone have any suggestions how we could enrich the older hen's life? (The chick is content with human company and watching TV indoors!)

The vet, although unconfirmed, suggested they may have Mycoplasma which I understand to be contagious even once treated. Could we repopulate the flock once the symptoms vanish? I'd hate to have to cull our current birds, although sick and barmy, we love them to bits!

 

[Tenderft chick]

Chickens are flock animals they need to be in a flock whether that be people or other birds. If you have a crate or something you could bring the hen in to the house, this will also help keep her quiet and help in the healing process as she doesn't have to be alone and also constantly "looking" for food. Hope they get better soon.

 

[jessaw1981]

if it were me with one chicken left I would cull and start over. Taking care to really clean and sanitize everything. just what I think. And if you bring in more if / when she feels better the others could get sick and that's not good. unless your just happy with the one chick and chicken you have left. good luck in whatever you decide to do.

 

[Judy]

I'm so sorry. I've had chickens off and on for years and never had to go through this.

This is a decision I'm afraid only you can make.

 

[mama2many]

I smell a house hen in your future. Bring her in with the chic....the more the merrier. Place her in the kitchen or someplace with a lot of traffic. I do the tub in my kids room in a crate open on all sides. I have a 4 and 6 year old who are ALWAYS in the bathroom. They go in and check on the patient and keep them company. I have a pair of silkies moving in this evening. Too cold outside and big booboo on papa's back =time in the tub with the kids. I would move your hen in until you decide on her fate. Keep her warm and happy-should you decide a different fate awaits her-well ask a friend to come and take care of it for you. You must have other chicken keeping friends who will be more than willing to help you with a chickie they themselves are not attached to. Then clean clean clean and start over. I wish you the best of luck, hope she makes a full recovery and there are many friends in her future.

 

[crawfordmama]

Yes, a house chicken! All you need is a dog crate and a chicken diaper!