Respiratory illness? Gaping, lethargic, losing weight, not cooing

[eggsontoast]

My precious silkie has been gaping for 3 days. I swabbed her throat for gapeworm but saw nothing. She won't make her usual cooing noises but I can hear slight squeaky sounds when she breathes. She also has diarrhea and is losing weight. Her gait is slow and wobbly--just no energy. I put a crushed garlic clove in her water tonight and isolated her in the house. Any suggestions for what it could be and what to do?? We really love this little chicken-she's special!!

 

[chicapee]

Bump! Hoping someone with more chicken disease experience can assist. Its good that you have isolated her. I would start with electrolytes, vitamins and probiotics in the water. I believe tylan is useful for respiratory issues. And vet rx helps open up the airways. Good luck.

 

[eggsontoast]

She died in my lap this morning. I'm so sad. At least she didn't struggle but she was so weak she could not stand or keep her eyes open. She died as I was calling the vet to try and get her in. I don't think they could have helped her though and she was way too far gone.

 

[chicapee]

She died in my lap this morning. I'm so sad. At least she didn't struggle but she was so weak she could not stand or keep her eyes open. She died as I was calling the vet to try and get her in. I don't think they could have helped her though and she was way too far gone.

I am so sorry. I think you are right she sounds like she was very sick.