Rooster constantly falls to his side...!

[huntsman]

Hi All

I have a flock of 12 Potch Koekoek girls and two Roosters and my dominant male suddenly fell over onto his side three days ago.

He shivered for a short time and then seemed perfectly normal, though unable to rise. We have no vets that deal with chickens in my area so kept him warm overnight, monitoring any change.

Next morning he staggered into the sun and fell again, near a water bowl. We helped him drink and hand-fed him which he gobbled hungrily. He was still able to crow perfectly and seems in peak health, with no wounds visible.

Last night he made it up his ramp into the coop unaided and came down well this morning, but still staggers until he gets to his destination, when he collapses.
'
Is there anything you can suggest, perhaps? I'm quite worried...

 

[drumstick diva]

Is it possible he had some type of stroke which would affect his balance? You may want to check out the symptoms of Marek's disease - as often it starts with balance and leg problems. Though the bird may have a good appetite and seem normal(at first) until the condition progresses.

 

[Eggcessive]

The simplest thing to do first is to treat him for possible dehydration by adding vitamins and electrolytes to his water, and positioning multiple water bowls in shady locations. Vitamin deficiencies and dehydration can cause neurological symptoms, but Mareks disease as posted above, would be a concern too. Lead or chemical poisoning, mold in the feed are other things to rule out. Here are 2 good articles to read about Mareks:
https://extension.unh.edu/resources/files/Resource000791_Rep813.pdf
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/the-great-big-giant-mareks-disease-faq

 

[huntsman]

Two good replies - thank you very much!

Now to get reading!