Lost two chickens

[Eggcessive]

Sorry for your loss. It is good that your vet suggested a necropsy, since most labs will do histology and test for certain diseases. Have you checked the feed that the hens were eating to see if there is mold or a bad odor? Could they have eaten something in the yard toxic, or a dead animal that might have been buried in a compost heap? Botulism and mold can kill rather quickly. I have lost 2 hens within a week of reproductive issues, but losing 2 in one night is very suspicious.

I agree with others to use Flock Raiser or chick starter for all with some crushed oyster shell in a separate container for the hen. Let us know what the necropsy shows, and we love to read copies of reports to learn all we can. Each state varies, so hopefully they will let you know soon.

 

[OliveGrace]

Mine are on starter feed all around.... mix them together for a few days for the older bird, then put your older hen on the starter feed. Offer oyster shell on the side for the hen to make up for the lost calcium. In about a week, I will be moving my entire flock to all flock feed.

Thanks! I don’t care if my hen lays at this point. I just don’t want her to be lonely. They have oyster shell all the time. If the test come back negative I will be doing that. Thanks for your help

 

[OliveGrace]

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Sorry for your loss. It is good that your vet suggested a necropsy, since most labs will do histology and test for certain diseases. Have you checked the feed that the hens were eating to see if there is mold or a bad odor? Could they have eaten something in the yard toxic, or a dead animal that might have been buried in a compost heap? Botulism and mold can kill rather quickly. I have lost 2 hens within a week of reproductive issues, but losing 2 in one night is very suspicious.

I agree with others to use Flock Raiser or chick starter for all with some crushed oyster shell in a separate container for the hen. Let us know what the necropsy shows, and we love to read copies of reports to learn all we can. Each state varies, so hopefully they will let you know soon.

Thank you. I will indeed report back. We have a totally organic yard. We use no chemicals on our gardens. Compost only. For them both to die at the same time while the other hen seems fine has me stumped and heartbroken. They eat a non gmo feed. It is kept in tightly closed bins and looks fine. I look forward to the report. Thanks again.

 

[OliveGrace]

If there are no disasters, the hen can eat starter feed. If she is actively laying just make sure she has a source of free-choice calcium.

I really hope the results weren't something contagious! I'm so sorry for what you're dealing with. It's hard sometimes being a chicken keeper.

So true! I have only had chicks since 2018. I was very lucky for the first 1 1/2 years. I lost my first 2 of six to predators and one from egg yolk pernitis (sp?) only 6 weeks ago. It has been difficult. I love each of them so it has been hard. Thanks for you kind words.