Marek's or something more?

Micaelasaintlaurent

In the Brooder
Sep 6, 2017
13
3
14
I got this chicken today. They didnt want it and I see why.
The chickens has not:
  1. eaten for several days thus causing major weight loss
  2. been able to walk (toes curl and unable to support itself)
  3. had interest in food
However the chicken has
  1. been drinking water constantly
  2. has been very lively/alert
Symptoms:
  1. Unable to use its legs, supports itself using the upper part.
  2. toes curl
  3. doesnt eat or seem interested
  4. major weight loss
  5. excessive drinking
  6. "water" filled crop
  7. green diarrhea
They reported that she was happy and healthy, but suddenly just became crippled in the legs so she was unable to walk. This caused the other hens to bully her and resulted in a nice, now scabbed-over, wound on her comb. I initially thought it was Marek's though the only symptoms I could see was the loss of appetite and the inability to use her legs. However, upon bringing her home I noticed that her comb is extended and rather squishy. The best way to describe it is as if you are squishing a half-filled water ballon. There wasnt any feeling of food, as we have experience with sour crop, simply liquid. I thought at first it was an air buildup since she looked so puffed up and you can literally feel the bulge of her crop so we decided to do the needle trick with their crop and draw out the air. The needle was a medical-grade, sterilized needle and we gently poked the crop to remove the air, but only withdrew liquid that was as clear as water.

It is weird however as her crop doesnt seem to be supported in anyway as well. I was curious on thoughts to this or if anyone has ever seen this. If she continues this way, we will likely cull her as it is unfair for her to essentially starve to death. However, I figured I would give it my best shot at trying to help her. I have tried to feed her, but she doesnt have it, not even for the mealworms.

Thank you!
 

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