swelling under vent, waddling, not roosting

[newchickiemom48]

Hi -- I have a 2 year old Australorps who has a swelling under her vent, redness, loss of feathers, and poop stuck. She is having trouble walking and roosting. Eating and drinking and free ranging with flock outside. I am trying to figure out what is causing it and how to treat it. So far I have soaked her in warm water and Epsom salts, checked her vent for a retained egg but did not find anything, and liberally sprinkled DE throughout the coop in case it is mites which are causing it. Please advise if anyone knows how to fix this. Thanks.

 

[dawg53]

It might be waterbelly aka ascites. A photo of her rear would help.

 

[newchickiemom48]

It might be waterbelly aka ascites. A photo of her rear would help.

 

[dawg53]

Thank you for the photo. It appears that it might be ascites. Usually birds with ascites can hardly walk. Here's a link:
https://www.merckvetmanual.com/poul...tes-syndrome-in-poultry?query=poultry ascites

Another possibility is urates in feces have run down her rear end and caused scalding to her skin. It causes redness, irritation and swelling if left untreated. You can apply Nu-Stock to the affected area and it will heal in time, also feather and fluff will regrow. It will prevent picking by other birds as well. Wear disposable gloves when applying the Nu-Stock and shake the tube well before applying it. It can be found in the equine section at a feed store.

I recommend that when you see birds with poopy butt, pick up the hen and use a garden hose to spray the birds rear end to wash off feces. Then release her, she'll shake herself off and go about her business. It'll also prevent fly strike.