Not eating and lethargic - HELP!

[MaeMom]

My 4 month old Australorp is acting weird today. She's not eating - even treats. She is usually my feistiest hen and today she is just lethargic. I'm not sure what to do and I'm worried. Help!

 

[GitaBooks]

I'm sorry to hear that. I hope I can help.

Have there been any weather, feed, or water changes lately?
Have you introduced or removed any chickens lately?
Is she straining or trying to pass an egg?
Is she hunched up, wheezing, or passing loose droppings?
Does she have internal or external parasites?
Is she being bullied?
Are there any injuries on her?

I hope she gets better soon!

 

[MaeMom]

I'm sorry to hear that. I hope I can help.

Have there been any weather, feed, or water changes lately? Weather yes. It got really hot and humid after a week of cool temps.
Have you introduced or removed any chickens lately? A new stump for them to stand on in the run. They seem to ignore it so I might pull it out.
Is she straining or trying to pass an egg? She hasn't started laying yet. Only 2 of the 4 have.
Is she hunched up, wheezing, or passing loose droppings? Nope.
Does she have internal or external parasites? Not that I know of. How would I find out?
Is she being bullied? I don't think so. She's usally the boss.
Are there any injuries on her? Not that I could find. I felt her over and she looked good.

I hope she gets better soon! Thanks! She is eating this morning and moving around more. I also noticed that the granite I leave out was actually eaten today, and it usually goes untouched. Maybe she had an upset stomach?

 

[GitaBooks]

External parasites can be seen if feathers are separated around the vent or under the wings. Internal you need to get a lab or vet to examine the droppings for any worms. Or you can just give her some wormer to be on the safe side.

An upset stomach is a likely answer. If she doesn't show any symptoms of feeling sick over the next few days, she is probably over it.

The weather changes can often throw chickens off.