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- #11
Snicketysnoksnaksnik
Chirping
- Nov 26, 2021
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It is very warm currently so I’ll check for maggots. I’ll also check to see if I have any of the items you suggested.Her lower belly looks very full and enlarged as though she might have ascites. Tumors or liver disease from egg yolk peritonitis, as well as heart disease can cause ascites. The wound under her vent looks like pecking, but in warm weather, flystrike (maggot infestation) can occur there. I would try to make sure there are no maggots. Chlorhexidene 2% spray or Vetericyn can be used to clean the wound twice daily followed by plain Neosporin or Triple Antibiotic Ointment.
I’ll try get a photo soon. Yesterday I applied an ointment to it, I’ll make sure to do it again today.Can you get a photo of her vent?
The black almost looks like dried on cecal poop, but it may be a large scab.
I would apply an ointment or oil to the black portion, especially around the edges. See if it starts to work loose over time revealing healthy skin. I don't think I would pick it off, but it may lift over the course of several days if you apply the ointment/oil daily.
I agree, the abdomen looks like it's full.
For me, if a hen is able to move about, still roost, isn't getting pinned down and picked on by the others, then I leave them with the flock. I let her decide about her roosting place. Sometimes once they start having reproductive issues, they start roosting lower and lower until they are unable to roost, then they choose a comfy corner. Once they start sleeping in a corner, then I make sure they have adequate clean bedding for overnight.
She’s always stayed on the lowest roosts even when she was fine because she has a problem jumping. Although recently she hasn’t been going on the roosts whatsoever, so instead of putting her up I got her a crate with bedding.