Swollen abdomen

[asteppa]

Hi, we have a 4 year old hen that has a swollen abdomen and walks funny. Her abdomen is firm and not squishy. She is eager to eat and comes to the fence when we come near the coop to see if we have food. She has not laid eggs since last Fall, but she has stopped laying every winter and at other times too. She looks healthy except for the wide stance and dragging tail. We have tried treating for worms. We have another hen that is over 1 that is not showing any sick symptoms. We have checked her legs etc for any injuries. This funny walking has been going on for a couple of months now. Is there anything we can do?

We gave her a bath today- hope you can see her swollen abdomen.

 

[Cayuga momma]

You could try to stick a lubricated finger into her vent up to 2" to see if there is an egg stuck.

 

[Jman45]

Yes, lubricate your finger and stick it in her vent About 2” and see if there is an egg stuck, keep us posted

 

[Wyorp Rock]

4 year old hen that has a swollen abdomen and walks funny. Her abdomen is firm and not squishy. She is eager to eat and comes to the fence when we come near the coop to see if we have food. She has not laid eggs since last Fall

From your description it sounds like she has a reproductive/internal laying disorder. Egg Yolk Peritonitis, Ascites, Salpingitis, cancer or tumors are common in laying hens. Unfortunately, there is not a lot that can be done when a hen develops one of these conditions. Antibiotics can sometimes treat secondary infection, but the effects are short lived. I usually just keep watch on mine, as long a they are eating/drinking, are still fairly active, not being picked on and taking care of themselves I leave them be. https://poultrykeeper.com/reproductive-system-problems/