skinny chicken

[newham0614]

I've had one chicken die so far. They are all molting. I have noticed another hen getting very skinny with no other symptoms. But i have noticed a few of the hens eating a orange mushroom that has grown because of all the rain. I have gotten rid of it when i noticed them eating it. Could it be possible that is what's doing it?

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

How old are they? The first thing I think of with weight loss is worms.

 

[newham0614]

Thanks for the reply. My husband was thinking about that. What wormer does everyone use?

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

Quote:
Be cautious if they are less than 18 weeks old, as wormers are very hard on hens. It is really not recommended to worm less than 18 weeks old according to what I've read on here. However, my wazine bottle does give a dose for 4-6 week olds as well as adults.

If you are treating for roundworms then Wazine will work. There are other wormers some are using off-label in order to kill other types of worms.

If you are interested in off-label wormers, then search BYC for valbazen. However, be aware that wormers have an "egg withdrawal time" that you must observe where you toss the eggs.

Also, you said they are molting. Molting and worming together will be VERY hard on your hens. So, some vets will do a fecal test for worms for a small fee. You might consider that.