i got 4 silkies last week .... i bought them at 7 weeks old but one was younger than the rest .... they settled in really well, now the youngest one looks unwell... she is eating and drinking fine but he/she looks really dopy, ive put the others out in the garden and i had to pick him up and put him with the others as he didnt have enough energy to walk it himself ... he's tucked his head in and closed his eyes can anyone tell me what is causing it ??? general information i am changing there food over from chick crums to layers mash the weather is a little hotter than normal
Heat might be causing this behavior. However, Coccidiosis is a just as likely possibility. Coccidiosis is caused by protozoa, and often occurs when chickens are placed in a new environment (such as what happened when you got your chicks). It causes droopiness, sleepiness, lack of appetite, paleness, sometimes bloody droppings, and death. If I was you, I'd get 9.6%Corid (sold for cattle) and start treatment immediately. The dosage is 2tsps per gallon, or 1/2 teaspoon per quart, for five days. If he can't walk, a vitamin B or E deficiency is a possibility as well. However, treat for Coccidiosis first, as it is more likely the cause of the behavior. Don't give any vitamins while treating for Coccidiosis, but definitely give some after treatment. Do not change them to layer feed. Keep them on the starter feed until they are at least twenty weeks old. Layer feed contains too much calcium for young birds, and doesn't give them enough protein.