Not laying, very swolen, trouble walking

[RoaringBrook]

I have a 4 year old plymouth rock that stopped laying a while ago. For the last few days she has been swelling (lower abdomen/vent area) and getting lower and lower to the ground. She is now having trouble walking (again seems to be getting lower to the ground with her swollen stomach). She is still eating and drinking water. Should I try the warm bath? Since she stopped laying, and I do not feel an egg, I did not think it could be egg binding... Last night I carried her inside the coop, and she slept on the floor vs the bar... - Appreciate any help.

 

[sabinechicken]

Im having a similar problem with my chicken. Let me know if you find anything out i would appreciate the help. I brought my chicken inside and im feeding her yogurt to help her digestion. Let me know How your chicken is feeling
Thanks

 

[tryxichicks]

Instead of a bath, try putting her in a small crate or something in your bathroom near to the tub or shower and run the water as hot as you can, (NOT so she's getting wet). Get the bathroom nice and steamy do that for about an hour, you can also put a bit of water based lubricant into her vent with your finger, not very far just enough lube the exit, it can stimulate pushing. Let her just chill for a bit. It can't hurt. This is what I have done in the past its worked like magic for my eggbound hen. (it was recommended to me by an avian vet specialist.)
Is she pooping easily??? Thats very important, and what does the poop look like?
Wish I could help more! Best of luck!

 

[tryxichicks]

Antibiotics can prove helpful as well, if she is that swollen she may have an infection. It will help reduce swelling. Baytril 22.7 pills, once a day for 14 days, from a small animal of avian vet.

 

[jjthink]

RB, your hen is in emergency status. Do a search on this site (see search tab above) under "ascites" and also under 'internal layer' and 'peritonitis' to see if you think there's a symptom match. If you are able, her best chance is likely to be an avian vet - asap tomorrow if they are closed already this eve.
JJ

 

[RoaringBrook]

Just back from the vet - Ramona has "egg yolk peritonitis". The vet drained most of the fluid from her abdomen, and started her on antibiotics for 7 days. She is back in the coop resting with the other girls. Thanks for all your advice. Will keep you posted on her recovery!

 

[tryxichicks]

YAY! That should really help! I'm so glad you took her...she should feel better soon. She may not lay for a few days now, so don't get to upset if you don't see any of her eggs, just keep an eye on her symptoms. Make sure shes poopin'!