My hen is having a problem

[Didi84]

I can't take a picture until tomorrow but one of my hens has something red hanging out of her rear end. What should I do?

 

[our12]

So sorry to read this. But go to the "Articles" learning center and you may find help for your hen's issue. I've learned a lot there! Good luck!

 

[micstrachan]

Is it bright red? Sounds like maybe a prolapsed vent?

 

[Didi84]

Is it bright red? Sounds like maybe a prolapsed vent?

Wh

Is it bright red? Sounds like maybe a prolapsed vent?

it is bright red

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Hi @Didi84
Photos will be helpful when you can get them.
Is she able to poop?

In the meantime, you will want to catch your hen and inspect her more closely. From your description she may have a prolapsed vent. Ideally she needs to be removed from the flock so you can care for her and keep the other chickens from pecking at it making it worse. Take a look at this link - this is what a prolapse looks like http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2012/04/prolapse-vent-causes-treatment-graphic.html

If it is a prolapsed vent (tissue hanging out her rear). You can soak her in a warm epsom salts bath, this will help soothe, reduce inflammation and help you cleanse the vent. Dry her off and apply some hemorrhoid cream or honey to help reduce any swelling and gently push the prolapse to see if it will go back in. Sometimes if the tissue has been out for a good while, it may be too swollen to go back in - you may need to repeat soaks and application of cream/honey - but go slowly. If she is stressed by the process, then let her rest keeping the tissue moist with cream/honey. It may take her overnight to get it back in. Hydration is very important, so take time to see that she is drinking well. Calcium can help with contractions, so you can offer some extra calcium (yogurt, crushed TUMS/Caltrate). Don't worry too much if she doesn't want to eat, but if she will then that is good.

Let us know how she is doing.

 

[micstrachan]

@Wyorp Rock thank you for sharing! I have read about prolapsed vent, but have not had to treat it myself.
Good luck @Didi84. Keep us posted!

 

[Didi84]

Thank you and I will get the picture today

 

[Didi84]

Can I put her in a dog crate

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Can I put her in a dog crate

How is she doing?

A dog crate works well for separating a sick or injured bird.

 

[Didi84]

She is doing better I have been putting some cleaning her up every day