The chicken, not me What is the reason that my cornish cross has a lopsided breast? I haven't examined them all since they scream bloody murder when you touch them but the one I picked up looked really lopsided. They are given access to food from 9a-9p only.
Quote:Hmmm, quite possibly. This is our first time with chickens, meat or otherwise. What would be the reason it would be swollen like that? Is it okay? I had some grit in the brooder because we gave them some crickets and I've read they need grit if they eat anything besides chick food. My husband didn't think to pick up the grit when he picked up the food and because the meaties are such pigs they were all gathered around the grit bowl gorging on it. I took it out, but could they have overdosed on grit?
The crop is alike a big pocket on one side of their chest. It is intended for them to be able to run out gobble up alot of food and then run for cover when they are out in the wild. The pocket fills up with food then they are able to go 'hide' and digest the food slowly over a period time. Meat birds should not have food in front of them 24 hours a day. Pick a routine - give them feed at 6am and let them have all they can eat but take it away at 6pm. or 7 to 7 or 8 to 8. Whatever works for you. Always make sure they have plenty of water. At night make sure they have lots of water. When they can't eat they will drink. You will see them eventually sleeping at the feeders and will wake to eat and never move if you don't make them.
I would guess it to be the crop as well, although I don't know that it's a PROBLEM with the crop, rather, it could just be a FULL crop. Take a look at them in the morning before you feed them and the crops are empty.
