Mareks Disease?

[Becky R]

I could really use some advice. I am relatively new to raising chickens. I have one Silkie that is about 1 year old. I recently purchased two Silkies and they are presently 11 weeks old. Last Tuesday, I noticed one of the chicks has a slight limp. By Wednesday it was an obvious limp. By Thursday, it was laying flat on its side. I read that Hypericum would help, so I immediately purchased some. As far as I know this chick should not still be alive. BUT it is. I have isolated it (although all others have been exposed). I am not sure when on Thursday it went on its side, but Thursday evening (5pm) until Saturday, this chick did not eat or drink anything other than the dropper twice a day with the Hypericum. On Saturday, I had my husband prepare a spot to stop the suffering, however when we went to the chick, it was chattering. So we sat it up and placed feed down. It agressively proceeded to eat and when the water was placed next to it, it would drink. Now, I am so confused. It is unable to sit up by itself. It appears to be a paralyzed chicken. I currently have it in my garage seperated from two Sultan chicks that I have had for two weeks now. I do not know what to do. Any suggestions?

 

[Becky R]

An update to the previous post! This chick is still alive! I am shocked. I actually see improvement. Today I noticed that it can sit itself back up. It has an aggressive appetite and will drink on its own. I am so optimistic. I am still keeping it quarantined and providing it the Hypericum. I am so excited!

 

[seminolewind]

I hope your chicken continues to improve.