Overheated hen

[Laurie Abney]

Help! Just found a hen on her side lying in our barn. I'm assuming she's overheated. She was panting earlier, along with the others. 100 degrees today! She has access to cool water, shade and fans. I brought her into my house. Hoping the air conditioning cools her off. What else should I do?

 

[Kiki]

Offer her some electrolytes.

If you hold a spoon with electrolyte water on it up to her beak she may start drinking.

 

[Laurie Abney]

Offer her some electrolytes.

If you hold a spoon with electrolyte water on it up to her beak she may start drinking.

 

[Laurie Abney]

Thanks! I don't have electrolyte water on hand but will try just plain water for now. Should I put a cool damp towel or packs under her? I don't want to throw into shock. She just lying on her side. Still breathing. Not panting as hard.

 

[Kiki]

I think just being indoor in the ac is enough, I'm afraid ice packs or cold would shock her.

Gatorade would work for now too.

 

[Kiki]

The most important thing is to get fluids into her.
If she won't drink....try this:
How to Tube-Feed a Chicken

Tube Feeding a Chicken

 

[Granny Hatchet]

Homemade Electrolyte Recipe, Hot Weather and Acidosis ...
www.communitychickens.com/homemade-electrolyte-recipe-hot-weather-and-acidosis/

 

[Laurie Abney]

Thanks for the advice but she just died. Too little too late I guess. I'm off to check on the others.

 

[centrarchid]

Place bottoms of her feet in contact with something cool like ice. If she recovers it will be fast and not require hydration.

 

[Laurie Abney]

Thanks for all of the concern. I've never had this happen before. Dang heat!