Rooster down, can't stand up

[sschroeter]

We have a 4 year old rooster that we found laying in the coop yesterday. He can’t stand but will try to push with his hind legs at times causing himself to somersault and roll around. If the body is supported he can push with his legs and flap wings. No apparent injuries. He seems to be eating, drinking and pooping if we put the food and drink near him. He spent the night in a cage in the house to warm him up (mid-40’s outside). No improvement that we can see. We won’t be taking him to a vet. The question is do we give him time to heal (what I’m not sure)? Or is it time to put him out of his misery? Treatment suggestions are also very welcome. Tried to upload a video, but said it didn't allow *.mov files.

 

[coach723]

I'm sorry I don't have any suggestions for treatment, you can post your video on YouTube and put a link in here, hopefully that will generate some help.

 

[Ducky0601]

I'm so sorry! That's terrible. If he seems like he is in pain, I would cull him. Otherwise I would give him a few days to try and heal. Have you tried standing him up yourself?

 

[sschroeter]

I'm so sorry! That's terrible. If he seems like he is in pain, I would cull him. Otherwise I would give him a few days to try and heal. Have you tried standing him up yourself?

Yes we have and he can move his legs than, but can't support or balance his body. As to pain, I'm not sure how to tell. When left alone, he isn't breathing heavily or looking stressed.

 

[Ducky0601]

If he is breathing heavily, gasping, making weird noises. Is he having diarrhea? Also, if he is eating or drinking (which you said he is) he shouldn't be in a lot of pain. But I would separate him from other Roos.

 

[CapricornFarm]

Might be he has contracted Mereks disease. Look it up and see if symptoms match. Sorry you are having problems.
Eta, keep him separate from the flock.

 

[sschroeter]

Might be he has contracted Mereks disease. Look it up and see if symptoms match. Sorry you are having problems.
Eta, keep him separate from the flock.

I wouldn't say the symptoms match Marek's at all. He has movement in all body parts, can hold his head up, comb is upright and well colored, eyes look good.

 

[coach723]

With no other information I would suggest supplementing vitamins, especially the B's and selenium for a while and see if it helps. Vitamin deficiencies are not uncommon and can have neurological symptoms. That may not be what is going on, but it won't hurt to try.

 

[WVduckchick]

Try this symptom checker

http://www.poultrydvm.com/symptoms

 

[chickens really]

What do you feed? Has he just molted?..Could be coccidiosis or a nutritional Deficancy ?