Troubleshooting a sick hen

heatherfeilner

In the Brooder
May 27, 2015
18
1
24
Illinois
Today I've noticed one of my hens acting "off". She has been coughing a little bit, holding her wings out and has her mouth open. She ate some today and was drinking so I'm assuming she may have an impacted crop. I've been massaging the crop (which feels fine to me) and I'm going to check it in the morning before she eats but I wondered if the other symptoms coincide with an impacted crop? Does an impacted crop generally pass on its own or is she going to need lots of help?
Thanks :)
 
Holding the wings out with the mouth open can be a sign that she is hot, and trying to cool off. The cough could be an early sign of a respiratory infection, something in her throat, or just from dusty conditions or feed. Good ventilation, shade, a flat pan of water to stand in, and extra shaded waterers may help. Vitamins and electrolytes can be added to the water on hot days, and a fan in the coop can help with the heat.
 

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