Stargazer injury

[tralfaz]

One of my new hens, a barred rock, appears to have stargazer neck. Not sure if it just developed or was injured. She really poor balance so rarely goes into the coop and sleeps outside at night. When. Inside she can't perch so just sits on the bedding. With the weather warming, concerned with predators. Is there anything I can do to help her recover?

 

[azygous]

Vitamin E 400iu gel cap once a day directly into the beak. A sliver of selenium will help it absorb more effectively or give with some egg. This usually works pretty quickly, often overnight.

You might suspect a brain injury if vitamin E doesn't improve her condition.

 

[tralfaz]

Started the treatment on vitamin E and scrambled eggs this week but hen seems to be getting worse. She's not walking much and has a very jerky motion. Is this a brain issue which can't be reversed? I'm concerned the bird is in pain as well. We carry her back in the coop the past few days as she not able to get inside on her own.

 

[azygous]

That's discouraging news. Yes, jerky movements is a sign of injury to the nervous system, brain or spinal cord. Don't give up yet, though.

Continue the E and give a sliver of selenium with it. Also, start her on B-100 complex. That has generous quantities of B1, 2 and 6 which help heal nerve connections. Half a tablet twice a day.

One 81 grain aspirin given in the morning and one again late afternoon can help with pain and is definitely a good idea. Pain requires way too much energy to cope with it, and pain relief hastens healing.

You might also try St John's Wort, one capsule daily. It also helps heal neurological connections that are causing balance issue and paralysis.

 

[tralfaz]

Thanks @azygous, I'll head over to CVS later today

 

[tralfaz]

Sorry to report but our barred rock couldn't overcome her injury and died today. She is now resting quietly under a nice birch tree in a shady far part of the yard. Thanks to all who took time to write about similar issues and those who are always willing to provide helpful insight and suggestions.