Swollen Pale Hock

[IslandRockFarm]

I was working out near my hens today when I noticed one was doing a hop skip. I watched her a little more and she had a definite limp. I inspected her leg and it is more swollen and pale than the other at the hock with a little bump. I'm not sure what to do. It may be not be that serious. The only possibilities I can think it might be is the rooster got a little too rough mounting.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Eggcessive]

It might be sprained, but it also could be fractured. An xray could be of help if you can see a vet. If not, I would confine her to a pen or dog crate with food and water to force rest on the leg. Definitely do not let her jump up or down from a roost.

 

[IslandRockFarm]

I'll grab her when she settles down and put her in comfy spot so she doesn't run. I'll see if there's any changes in the morning. If the swelling doesn't go down I'll see what the vet says.

 

[Eggcessive]

Most of us do not have vet care available or it is too expensive. Xrays can be $100 and up. Unfortunately, it is the best way to know how to proceed. But if it is not an option, try the rest for a week or two, and go from there. Most chickens will tolerate a wire dog crate with food and water inside the coop, so they can remain part of the flock.

 

[IslandRockFarm]

Thank you for the tip. I'll look around. See what vet fees might be. If it feels too crazy I'll see what I can remedy myself. I looked at little closer now it's night and she's easier to handle. The hurt leg definitely doesn't have the level of mobility of the other leg when I gently stretch it. So I think it's related to that joint.