Very lethargic hen who's not eating

[usual_suspect]

I have a hen who hasn't gotten up (as far as I know) in over 3 weeks. I noticed that she seemed 'broody' and didn't think much of it. Then I went on a family vacation and came back and she's still sitting there. She's not laying on eggs and I can't figure out what's wrong with her.

**She is not eating much, if all, but does have normal looking poop (or maybe a little more solid/substantial) so must be eating some
**She doesn't have any signs of weazing, coughing or congestion
** Her comb is droopy
**I thought she might be egg bound but let her soak in warm water for 35 plus minutes to see if I could work an egg out, felt her abdomen (which is soft) and did an 'internal' check and felt no egg
** Her crop is not compacted - just limp and empty
** Her bedding is grass hay (I put down what drops on the floor from when I feed the horses)

She's only been given her normal laying mash but I'm planning on giving her some soft food and electrolytes tomorrow. I tried to feed her fresh fruit which she normally likes and she didn't eat it. Any suggestions on diet?

Please help!!! I've been trying to find a poultry vet around my area (Malibu, CA) and am having no luck. Please - I'll take any advice/discussions/recommendations!!!!! Thanks.

 

[Judy]

I would break the broodiness. Quickest was is to slip a day old chick or two under her at night and see if she will raise them. Or, move her off the nest and close it off from her; you may have to do this every morning for several days. Offer a really tempting treat, something more substantial than fruit, maybe hard boiled egg, canned tuna or mackerel, cooked hamburger -- the protein should help boost her nutrition. Some put a hen in a wire bottom cage with no bedding, raised off the floor, so air will circulate on their bottom, for a couple of days.

 

[usual_suspect]

I've done that before which other hens but I wasn't convinced that she was actually being 'broody' as I've never seen a hen do that who actually doesn't have an egg under her. I'll try it though - thanks.