Prolapsed Vent?

[shoblitz]

Hi, I have a chick that I believe has a severe prolapsed vent. It is a Cornish Cross (not sure if that matters) but is only 4 weeks old. They all were just moved from the brooder to their outdoor shelter on Wednesday. Today I went out and noticed the one was acting very lethargic. I examined her and noticed something I thought was poop but was actually her vent and...? Its hanging out about 2 1/2 inches. She seems to be eating and drinking a bit but no improvement. What should I do? And what would have caused this? And can it spread to the other chicks?
Thank you!

 

[Judy]

This is often caused by constipation though dehydration would contribute and it could just be genetic. You need to separate the chick or the others will literally eat the protruding tissue. Put some Preparation H or Vaseline on the area, keep her at rest, give plenty of water, add about a tsp of molasses to a quart of her drinking water.