Struggling Chick

[avb83]

I have a chick that hatched about four hours ago. I am concerned because mama left it and it is still not up moving around. He just lays there curled up like with his eyes closed. When I touch him, he wiggles around and starts peeping but that is all. I am worried he is not going to make it. All of the other chicks are up moving around and doing good. Any suggestions?

 

[lazy gardener]

Bring him in and put him under a heat lamp. At this point, I'd keep him around 95* but, you'll have to be very careful that you don't overheat him. He may be hypothermic and need just a bit more time to get caught up to speed before he can join his brood mates.

 

[avb83]

After doing some reading and seeing some pictures, I think that he/she has wry neck as I have noticed that his head is turned a particular way and it seems like he just does not have the strength to lift it up. I am giving him vitamin E and Selenium along with some electrolytes. I hope that it helps. I will keep you posted.

 

[avb83]

Here is a picture of the chick who is now named Peepers. He is holding his head up now but still can't get his legs under him. My neighbor mentioned splay leg and said that I should try using splints. Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[AthenasOwl]

It looks like splay leg to me.. Here is more info from "Chicken Chick"

http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2012/02/spraddle-leg-in-baby-chicks-what-is-it.html