Swollen wattles and lethargic

[jecombs]

I have a hen with swollen wattles who is acting lethargic. My husband swears she was fine when he checked on them around noon today and when I got home at 6:30 she was acting odd. There are no visible signs of trauma and she does not have any nasal discharge. She just stands around with her tail down while her BFF pecks and scratches around her. She does not want to eat, even BOSS which is her favorite. Sometimes she stands with her eyes closed. I have checked all over her body for any signs of blood or infection and can't find anything.

Anyone have any idea what this could be? Could she be having an allergic reaction? Are there steroids for chickens?

 

[jecombs]

Upon further research, I am praying that this is not fowl cholera. Her wattles aren't as swollen as the pictures I've seen of cholera, but there is just the slightest tinge of discoloration. Has anyone ever dealt with cholera? What are the treatments? Possibly antibiotics?

Am I overreacting? I'm just freaked out because we only have 2 hens and I don't want to lose one of them!!! My daughter (age 5) would be devastated.

 

[jecombs]

Well she's acting some better today. She is pecking around, vocalizing, and eating a little. She still doesn't seem 100% herself, but is better. I would love to know if anyone has any insight regarding her swollen wattles. They are still puffy.