Official Squatch Watchers

[rjohns39]

But why would she be so thin? And staying in the coop/nest?

If for one reason or another they're not getting sufficient nutrition, they'll get lethargic and not really want to do anything. Just for fun I'd see if a local vet can do a float test.

 

[rjohns39]

Awesome, thanks! I was already thinking the stanky canned salmon, lol. How much should I give, and how often?

probably a tablespoon twice a day.

ETA: along with an egg. The egg is about 12% protein, but it will help her absorb the vitamins and minerals.

 

[pitbullmomma]

probably a tablespoon twice a day.

Not too much sodium? I know chooks aren't supposed to have a lot of salt....I will buy the low-sodium kind.

Thanks guys, you are the bestest peeps in the world!!

 

[staceyj]

View attachment 1201297I have a butterfly in my crown, too, and a ton of glitter that doesn't show up on the camera.

Yay for you ruby!
Very pretty!

 

[CapricornFarm]

I've never dewormed them. I look at their poops frequently though, and they are all good. Her comb is that funky little blackish Silkie peacomb, so can't go by that...

They should be dewormed. Parasites pull energy from them. Pumpkin does not do the job.

 

[pitbullmomma]

If for one reason or another they're not getting sufficient nutrition, they'll get lethargic and not really want to do anything. Just for fun I'd see if a local vet can do a float test.

I could do that. It's just that--I dunno, I still think like a vet. I know they can get worms. I just find it highly suspicious that she is the only one out of 14 that is thin, and staying in the coop, *and* she is the only one out of 14 that is laying. Granted, I am not a chicken vet!!! But that puts worms further down the list of differentials for me. I'm more inclined to think that it has to do with nutrition, energy expenditure, and laying...and possible behavioral? (although I could totally be off-base with the broodiness theory, as she is still laying).

Also--in NJ here, it is starting to get cold. Not below freezing yet, but...cold.

I have a vet friend that I could always run a poop sample to. Think I'm gonna try the salmon first. I just wonder, is this typical (in any way) for a pullet who comes into lay right before winter starts?

I really appreciate all your help, guys!

 

[pitbullmomma]

They should be dewormed. Parasites pull energy from them. Pumpkin does not do the job.

Do you use a broad spectrum dewormer? Or do you base it off a fecal?

 

[CapricornFarm]

Do you use a broad spectrum dewormer? Or do you base it off a fecal?

I use a made for chickens dewormer and then again 10 days later. That bird may have a heavier worm load than the others or just doesn't convert the feed to energy as well. Every one is an individual. Goats are very susceptible to problems from worms , especially the barber pole variety. I became a staunch believer in deworming. Goats can and do die from worm infestations.

 

[pitbullmomma]

I use a made for chickens dewormer and then again 10 days later. That bird may have a heavier worm load than the others or just doesn't convert the feed to energy as well. Every one is an individual. Goats are very susceptible to problems from worms , especially the barber pole variety. I became a staunch believer in deworming. Goats can and do die from worm infestations.

What is the name of it? Do they sell at TSC?

 

[CapricornFarm]

Wazine. Yes i believe TSC sells it.