Swelling/lumps on chickens legs

[sparklysmum]

Hi, advice welcome! We have a Light Sussex Hybrid which we acquired about 6 weeks ago, who, on being let out after her aclimatisation with our other hens, was limping. We put this down a knock whilst in the hen house, but noticed recently a boil-like swelling on her hock joint. This is getting larger (now about 1 inch in diameter), is quite hard, doesn't seem to cause her any pain, and she seems to have two smaller similar swellings further up her leg. Still eating, drinking and taking part in group activity! but has never laid since arrival. Does anyone have any idea what this is? Any advice or suggestions very gratefully received....

 

[justusnak]

Without pics it is hard to tell....could it be scaley leg mites? Maybe slather her legs in a good thick layer of KY...This will smother the mites.....IF thats what it is. Good luck, hope she gets better.

 

[dlhunicorn]

or if not the scaley leg mite (occurs on top of the skin)...possibly gout (occurs within the skin)...
http://www.vetcareindia.com/aviangout_bull.htm

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=15&cat=1829&articleid=2497

...please post a photo?

 

[sparklysmum]

Thanks for your replies. Got so concerned I took her back to the dealer we got her from, who lanced said swelling. Won't describe what came out as some of you may be eating, but she's a lot happier now it's drained! The dealer reckoned it was an infection caused by a scratch or a blow whilst they were shut up, and hopefully now it should clear up. He sprayed it with antiseptic spray and gave her an antibiotic injection, so fingers crossed we'll now have a happy, non-limping chicken! Thanks again for your replies.