My chicken can't walk

[tiffenyb79]

Our 2.5 yr old Rhode Island red recently stopped being able to walk on one of her legs. We noticed her leg was swollen and she wasn't using it. She is eating and drinking normally, but cannot walk on that one leg. We brought her inside and the swelling has gone down but the ability to use the leg hasn't come back. When she moves, she flops down and has to lay where she falls. I am wondering if it's Marek's disease or possibly something else.
Thanks for any advice!

 

[Wyorp Rock]

I'm sorry to hear about your hen.

Do you have any photos or video you'd like to share?
Do you notice any swelling, bloat of feeling of fluid in the abdomen?
When was the last time she laid an egg?
Is she molting?
Have you added any new birds to your flock within the last 30days?

I'm sure you've examined the leg (and bottom of the foot) for any injury or other obvious cause. With chickens it's hard to know - she may have sprained it badly or pulled a tendon. You may want to offer extra protein (egg, tuna, mackerel, meat) and vitamins that have B2.

Marek's can affect chickens of all ages, but it's more prevalent in the ages of 12-25wks. Mature hens, if stressed or if they have an underlying illness may present with Marek's symptoms more readily. Without testing there would be no way to know for sure.

 

[Samannemm]

Could be bumblefoot or leg mites depending on if there are other symptoms present.
More on bumblefoot: https://www.backyardchickens.com/th...-bumblefoot-prevention-and-treatment.1215290/

 

[micstrachan]

I haven’t heard of Marek’s causing swelling in the leg. Anyone else?
I do wonder if there is an injury, because of the swelling. Can you gently feel the leg all over and see if your hen flinches? If you gently press on tbe bottom of her foot, does dhe grasp your hand?
You could bring her inside and set her up with a sling (with her food and water within reach) like this: