Rooster Suffering Paralyisis (sp?) Need Input//UPDATE!! HE LIVES!!!//

[Up-the-Creek]

My mother has a buff orpington roo that is suffering from what looks like a stroke. His neck is twisted and one side of his head (comb etc.,) is red, the other side is a pale gray color. He is walking, but very slowly. His wings are drooped as is his tail. He has not been eating that she has seen, but he has been drinking some water, but very little. He is between 8 and 9 months of age and has been healthy up to this point. The symptoms began a few weeks back when something got in the chicken house and killed two of the hens. The symptoms also seem as if they are slowly worsening. Could this be due to the trauma of the attack in the house? Could he had a stroke?? If so, is there anything we can do for him? I would appreciate any input that I can pass along to my mother. She loves her rooster and this has upset her very much. Thanks in advance.

 

[hinkjc]

I am sure the trauma may have brought this on. Roosters can get stressed pretty easily, especially in those types of situations. It does sound like a stroke or heart failure. These large breeds can have heart defects as well, which typically present themself around this age. Keep him comfortable as possible. I'm so sorry.

 

[Cloverleaf Farm]

Well, as I am sure you can imagine, it doesn't sound like anything that's going to get better if it hasn't by now, and I agree with the other responder that it sounds like heart. If your mother is really attached to him, I am sure she doesn't want to see him suffer until he dies (which he is doing - both suffering AND dying) I would definitely recommend taking him to the vet to have him put down. Even if your vet doesn't "do" birds, they should be able to do a simple injection to end his suffering. I am so sorry you are having to go through this!!

 

[Up-the-Creek]

Thank you for the responses. I have tried to suggest to my mother to end the poor boys suffering, but she does not want to do that, It is her bird and I cannot make her. Hopefully he will pass quickly on his own.

 

[Up-the-Creek]

Just wanted to update everyone on "George's" condition,...he is now up and moving about quite well. Eating and drinking too. He has held on for weeks and he is back almost to perfect! Good thing she didn't chop his head off, huh? Pays to not jump too quick sometimes.