Mystery illness

[KellyG8]

Hi all,

I’ve been away traveling for two weeks and my chickens were being taken care of by a neighbor. While I was gone, it was very hot and muggy in NY.

Anyways - last night when I arrived home (11pm), I popped my head in the coop to see everyone. My friendliest girl, 2 year old buff Orpington, was on the floor of the coop instead of roosting.

This is unusual for any of my six chickens, so opened the door to put her on the roosting bar. Immediately some water (I’m assuming - clear, warm liquid) came out of her mouth and onto my arm. I thought it would be best to bring her inside for observation. As we walked to the house, a little more water came up and I noticed how large and squishy her crop was - felt as if it was full of water.

So, now I’m in a full blown panic. I’m reading up on sour crop, although there is no odor, it was completely clear, and now at 5 am her crop has gone down significantly. All I can feel now are bits of gravel. No maybe not sour crop at all?

I am still concerned about her though. Her behavior in the coop was so odd and I’m attaching a perfect what she’s passed (graphic - sorry!) - also very loose and watery. Her comb and wattles are pale.

I’m asking for any recommendations or advice on how you would approach this. This group has helped me so much during my times of emergency - I owe you the world!! Thanks you

 

[HenniesInMyHeart]

I have had this happen when hens drink too much. Like, maybe your neighborhood forgot to water them one day, and then when they put water back, the hen over-drank? That would be my first thought.

 

[KellyG8]

I have had this happen when hens drink too much. Like, maybe your neighborhood forgot to water them one day, and then when they put water back, the hen over-drank? That would be my first thought.

Thanks for reply! Helps to hear someone has been through similar symptoms.

 

[Eggcessive]

She may be drinking a lot of water because of the heat. If you have poultry NutriDrench give her a few drops, or put some SaveAChick electrolytes with vitamins in their water. Offer some chopped egg, and keep an eye on her crop for a few days.

 

[staceyj]

Might be the heat as another poster commented. I would definitely monitor her crop today. Did they have access to very long grass or straw?

Perhaps keep her inside today where you can keep a close eye on her and see if what she eats passes through more normally.

 

[KellyG8]

Thanks again everyone!

I’m picking up NutriDrench this afternoon, but do currently have save a chick probiotics in her water. Around an hour ago, her crop felt almost flat - not completely empty, but just as if some grit was in there. I also noticed it was far more right than centered, but maybe I just never noticed that before?

I decided to give her a hard boiled egg with some apple cider vinegar mixed in. I can tell her enjoys sitting in my lap, which she always has, but still not walking around herself or jumping to roost in the crate. Really hoping her poop improves - it’s a little different, but still abnormal looking. (Picture attached)

Maybe I’ll try some mashed food tonight - thoughts? Kind of just want to see how her crop feels after this egg.

 

[Eggcessive]

Her poop might be related to her problem, but I don’t think it is easy to diagnose something with droppings. I have seen ones like yours in older hens who may have reproductive problems such as internal laying. There is a lot of mucus in there with the solid bits. You can call around to a local vet and take in some fresh droppings for a fecal test to look for worms or coccidiosis. Or you could worm her with Valbazen or SafeGuard and keep an eye on her. Check her lower belly for any enlargement, which can be a sign of reproductive diseases, cancer, and ascites.

 

[KellyG8]

Thank you! I actually worked them a month ago, knowing we would be gone for a couple weeks and not needing the eggs. Just made an appointment at our vet - earliest they could get me in is Thursday. I’ll keep you posted.

Again - thanks so much!! Helps to not feel so alone in this.