Loosing feathers around vent

[deserthens]

A friend of mine has a problem with her hens.
What would cause hens to loose their feathers around their vents? This is only happening to the Barred Rock hens. They had some build up of fecal material and now have lost the feathers around their vents.

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

Could be mites.

They might have diarrhea too, if poo is sticking to their behinds.

 

[ChickGeek]

I'm having a similar problem with one of my girls (dark brahma). She's had a goopy white mess coming from her vent for a long time now. The vet said he thought I damaged her kidneys by giving them oyster shells .... but, if you'll forgive me, he seems to be a bit of an idiot. Didn't know what scratch was and thinks giving them anything other that feed is very very wrong ... they are happily attacking some fresh veggies as I type this

I've read a few websites that talk about 'gleet' ... if someone more knowledgeable than I has any tips, this novice would love to hear them

This is an older photo -- she's losing feathers now as well

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

I'm having a similar problem with one of my girls (dark brahma). She's had a goopy white mess coming from her vent for a long time now. The vet said he thought I damaged her kidneys by giving them oyster shells .... but, if you'll forgive me, he seems to be a bit of an idiot. Didn't know what scratch was and thinks giving them anything other that feed is very very wrong ... they are happily attacking some fresh veggies as I type this

I've read a few websites that talk about 'gleet' ... if someone more knowledgeable than I has any tips, this novice would love to hear them

This is an older photo -- she's losing feathers now as well

http://www.ultimatefowl.com/wiki/index.php?title=Vent_Gleet
I hope this helps.