Sick chicken?? Or not

[CrazyChickenLady15]

One of my four barred rock hens has seemed sick for going on three weeks and I can't figure the problem out. Her face and comb are very pale and seems lethargic. Sometimes will stand with her face under her wing. HOWEVER, she's eating and drinking. I tried deworming them about five days ago and have seen no improvement.

I've only had them for about two months and was told they are a year old. She's definitely went down hill from the first few weeks. The other three look good and happy. Any suggestions?!

 

[Kiki]

The "other" owner could have sold you a sick chicken and they could have not been truthful about her age.

When was the last time she laid an egg and have you checked her at night time for mites?

 

[CrazyChickenLady15]

I just went to check for mites and didn't see any. She has not been laying.

She also has very runny stools.

 

[getaclue]

How hot is it there?

 

[CrazyChickenLady15]

It's been in the 80s to 90s

 

[getaclue]

Is she laying? Are her stools a bit runny? It could be heat. Just keep an eye on her, and watch for other symptoms.

 

[Eggcessive]

Many people get rid of chickens after their first year of laying when it is close to time for their first molt (about 16-18 months old.) They also may sell ones who are not good layers. Has she been losing any feathers around the coop? They need to be on a good layer feed that is 16% protein, crumbles or pellets. Also put out some grit and a bowl of crushed oystershell. I like to put food and water in at least 2 spots, in case one gets kept from food. Look her over for mites or lice, especially under the vent. Feel of her crop to check if it is empty, partly full, hard, soft or puffy. Crop problems can make them weak and sick. The crop should be full in the evening and empty by early morning. Extreme hot weather can make some chickens weak. Just make sure that she is eating and drinking, and change your water so that it stays cool.

 

[Kiki]

You should probably take some poop in to a vet's office to have it tested. It is cheap and it will tell you if you are dealing with worms.