Need Answers Quick!!!

[Steph Martin]

I've had chickens on and off for five years and I'm lucky as no one ever got sick. Things are different with this bunch and I need some help please.

Got the hens in March so approximately 4 to 5 months ago. Most of them are mixed breeds and all were doing well and living life until about a week ago. One of the hens started staying in the coop. At first she was up on a roost and panting...then she moved to the floor or a nest box and just sat there for a couple of days. She didn't even have the energy to squawk at my son who is her adversary. I gathered my courage and I got rid of her as I was scared for the other guys. Now another hen who looks to have the same genetics (if this could be a factor) is showing the same symptoms. In the coop, laying down, lethargic. I've removed her from the main flock and I need some answers if there are any out there. I'm scared for the rest of my guys as I have several pullets in there and favourites as well. Also, I live in an area where I cannot get any drugs for these guys...I've read of different medications but none are available here.

HELP.

 

[sonew123]

Im not sure what it can be but are they eating-drinking-pooping? splayed legs as if the bird is doing split from paralysis? Leading to think Marek's or botulism..Are the sneezing-running noses-bubbly eyes? Have you checked them over for lice or mites?

 

[Steph Martin]

They look relatively normal altho their combs kind of got pale. They are walking normally but, if left to their own devices, they will stay inside and sit down. Their eyes appear to be clear, no runny noses. I did notice about two weeks ago that one had very watery stool but I thought it might be because of some treats I had put in there. None of them have any bugs.

 

[Steph Martin]

Just read monitor's post. Sorry!! CHICKEN UNRESPONSIVE and SITTING DOWN.

Extras:

No more than one year old
panting
sitting and not moving
comb pale
no bugs
not eating
walking normal when coaxed to do so
bedding is wood shavings
not laying eggs
extra skittish

 

[dawg53]

Three things come to mind; they are either eggbound, have lice or mites, or have worms....maybe all three.