My chicken was attacked by a hawk. What should I do?

[Rachel1231]

Today, my big foghorn Leghorn (we call him big chicken) was attacked by a hawk. It was the worst thing to hear. He is still alive, but he's got a big hole in his thigh. What should I do so he has the best chance to survive? TIA

 

[Henriettamom919]

First you'll want to clean it really well with betadine. You can dab some triple antibiotic cream around the wound but make sure it is the original formula with NO pain reliever (that particular ingredient is toxic). Vetricyn makes a great wound spray that I'd spring for as well as getting him on a vitamin supplement like nutridrench to help promote healing!

You'll want to keep a close eye on it for necrosis and infection. At the first sign of either I'd consider seeing a vet if that's an option but if not I'd probably try oral or injectable antibiotics from the farm and feed store.

Keeping it as clean and dry as possible is the priority, if he's struggling to walk maybe put him in a dog crate or secluded area in the run for a day or so to rest. I'm not sure about wrapping it; it would help keep it dry and clean but I worry if he fusses with the bandage it will just end up dirtier and more irritated than if just cleaned and left alone.

I'm so sorry! Hang in there!

ETA- He'll need to be kept away from others for a bit so they don't peck at the blood/wound. I'd give him a tepid bath to get as much blood off as possible!

 

[mixedbreeds]

Make sure no stinking flys get around that wound either or you will have a mess. Good luck

 

[Henriettamom919]

How people friendly is your bird? Would bringing him inside overnight be an option or is this chicken super skittish?

 

[Henriettamom919]

Unrelated but I love your avatar pic, @Mixed flock enthusiast !

 

[Mixed flock enthusiast]

Unrelated but I love your avatar pic, @Mixed flock enthusiast !

Thanks! That’s our main coop!

 

[blackandtan]

Keep it clean and dry and away from flies, I use blu-kote on wounds like that; I had a turkey hen with a massive hole in her chest from the Tom, I thought for sure she’d die, but she was fine and after a couple months it was gone; he should heal right up

 

[Wyorp Rock]

I'm sorry to hear about your rooster. How is he today?
Can you post some more photos? Especially one of all of him so we can see where that is located.