Puncture wound from attack

[LavendarFeather]

Had a chick injured by a predator last night. Not sure what did it, but probably something small--a rat maybe? Chick is almost 4 weeks old. Was walking funny. I picked him up, saw a gaping wound, pulsing, above his tail, and a little to the left of it. I took him inside, cleaned the wound and sprayed with blue kote. Put him under heat lamp, gave him water with honey. He seems to be in shock, but otherwise functioning. The wound has stopped pulsing. I fear it may be a hole in his intestine, as there was a bunch of excrement near it when I went to clean him up. Is this something that can heal? Is there a way to patch it?

 

[CMV]

No, it cannot heal if it is a hole in his intestines. There is no way to patch it except surgically. Even humans still often die when the bowel gets punctured, and we have the benefit of modern surgical techniques, hospitals and medicines. If you are sure his intestines were punctured then the kindest thing to do is to euthanize. He will not live long, but his death will not be quick or pleasant.

I am sorry. Good luck.

 

[LavendarFeather]

Thank you for answering. I am not sure, but I will make an effort to see what is going on with him. Thank you again.

 

[Avalongirl83]

If you aren't sure that the intestine is punctured, keep a close eye on him. Do exactly what you are doing: keep him cleaned up, keep him warm and make sure to keep him hydrated. Additional vitamins may help to give him an extra boost to heal. Unfortunately, its all on him and all you can do is try to limit his stress. Birds are very delicate and can often die from stress alone.

I hope he gets better.

 

[LavendarFeather]

Ah, he didn't make it. Poor little guy. A real fighter. I thought he might be okay--he was so feisty. He managed to knock the light screen top off of the tub I had him in, and was flying around my bedroom last night. But this morning, he's gone... Rest in peace, little prince.

 

[CMV]

I am sorry for your loss.

 

[LavendarFeather]

Thank you.