Ruby’s Toe is Broken & Possible Ascites

[micstrachan]

Forgot to mention... the first thing the vet mentioned, but did not necessarily diagnose was salpingitis.

 

[micstrachan]

So Ruby has an oviductal mass with fluid behind it. Vet agrees she is less swollen, but reminded me it’s possible that the fluid leaked out from where she was poked on Tuesday (but I don’t think so.)
She’s getting a hormone implant. The doctor thinks infection is much more likely than cancer, since Ruby’s muscle hasn’t wasted. The thought is if we shut down the repro tract it will give the inflammation a break. She doesn’t think the current meds alone will cure her, but admitted it’s possible. She also said there’s no harm in waiting a week, but I’d rather not make Ruby car ride both ways a third time, so gave the green light to do it today. I’m picking her up at 2:00.
If the combined treatments provide her best chance, I’m willing to try. Call me crazy.

 

[micstrachan]

Ruby was breathing a little heavier when I administered her meds last night. The hormone implant may have been a waste, but I guess I knew that going in. I’ll be letting them out of the coop soon and giving her morning meds. She seems to do a lot better when I let her free range, so she’ll get lots of that today (though I’m taking my daughter bridesmaid dress shopping with her cousins today.)

Anyway, Ruby’s fluid seemed to be compartmentalized up above the mass. Vet is only guessing it’s oviduct based on its location. I’m wondering if it’s cooked egg. Doctor couldn't tell, but was basing her guess on location and statistics.

Anyway, if the fluid returns quickly, I’ll try the aloe detox. Poor Ruby. I hope she feels good today.

 

[micstrachan]

It’s a pretty good day.

 

[Kathy Golla]

It’s a pretty good day.

Lucky hen.
#RubyWonthelottery
#finallyspringinthebayareajustforrubythehen

 

[Kathy Golla]

Serious smooches for Ruby.

 

[micstrachan]

Serious smooches for Ruby.

Thanks. She did put herself to bed early. I had to climb into the upper coop to administer her p.m. meds.

 

[micstrachan]

This morning Ruby hesitates to come out of the coop. I believe the swelling is returning pretty quickly. That’s a total bummer, because I think that shifts things away from infection and closer to cancer or other organ issue. I’ll finish out the antibiotics and start the aloe detox, but my hopes are dwindling. She’s getting lots of free range time today, as I work all day during the week.

 

[micstrachan]

Ugh. I had to coax Ruby out of the run. She managed to waddle across the easement to the neighbor’s and peck at grass a little, but now she’s just standing around. I guess the fluid reduction probably was from passive draining after all. Sinking feeling in my stomach here. Still going to try the detox, but wanted her to enjoy a little grazing and sunning first.

 

[Shadrach]

Will she still eat unaided?