Rehabbing an injured (possibly blinded) hen

[Mmclark]

Hi all! This is my first post so I apologize if it’s in the wrong place.

One of our calico princess hens was attacked by a hawk (we think) a week ago. I currently have her in a large dog crate in our garage. She’s on an antibiotic twice/day. We have also been having to hand feed her and give her water because her eyes were swollen shut.

One of her eyes has opened again, but I don’t think she can see out of the eye. I’ve put a waterer and feeder on the crate with her, but so far I don’t think she realizes they’re there. Because of this I’m still hand feeding/watering.

I’m trying to figure out how to move forward if she is blind. Her other eye is still swollen shut so it’s possible she might have some vision still, but I think it’s unlikely.

Does anyone have experience with a blind chicken? What is the best way to help her with feeding and drinking herself? Our chickens free range, but I assume that won’t be a good option for her if she can’t see. Is getting a separate enclosure for her reasonable?

Thanks!!

Megan

 

[sourland]

A separate pen with a mild mannered 'friend' would work. Provide feed and water in a consistent place so that she knows where to find it.

 

[AyamLaughing]

Hi all! This is my first post so I apologize if it’s in the wrong place.

One of our calico princess hens was attacked by a hawk (we think) a week ago. I currently have her in a large dog crate in our garage. She’s on an antibiotic twice/day. We have also been having to hand feed her and give her water because her eyes were swollen shut.

One of her eyes has opened again, but I don’t think she can see out of the eye. I’ve put a waterer and feeder on the crate with her, but so far I don’t think she realizes they’re there. Because of this I’m still hand feeding/watering.

I’m trying to figure out how to move forward if she is blind. Her other eye is still swollen shut so it’s possible she might have some vision still, but I think it’s unlikely.

Does anyone have experience with a blind chicken? What is the best way to help her with feeding and drinking herself? Our chickens free range, but I assume that won’t be a good option for her if she can’t see. Is getting a separate enclosure for her reasonable?

Thanks!!

Megan

 

[AyamLaughing]

Yes, she will need to be separated from the flock. They will pick on her if you don't...pecking order, hen pecked, broody hen. Chickens can be brutal. I have a blind Peahen(Peacock), I currently have her with an old hen, and several young chickens(about 3 months old). Your question is appropriate and you have already separated her. Just put her food and water in the same place, she will find it, you just may need to figure out what works best as far as feeders she can find and access. Hope that helps.