what is wrong?

[whirlwindschicks]

i have a batch of 20 cornish cross birds due to be done this week and twice when i go out to check on them i find one that acts like it cant get up or walk will use its wing to sorta hobble a foot or so. this has happened twice now the first time i figured maybe broken leg or something we butchered it and ate it. didnt get sick or anything. now a few days later it has happened again! my husband wasnt here to help so i put the bird by the water and gave her some feed. would eat and drink fine . now this morning it refuses to try to move and will not eat or drink. whats happening? this is my first time doing meat birds so any help would be awesome!!

 

[Lexiluke]

How old are they?

 

[whirlwindschicks]

7 and half weeks

 

[kizanne]

Is it also kinda panting.

Chances are it has chronic heart failure. CHF

The last one that acted like that when you butchered did it have fluid in the chest cavity?


CHF does not mean you can't eat it as many CX's get this due to their freaky growth.

However it does mean it is a good idea to go ahead and butcher so that you have fresh meat. Better than finding one dead in the pen and wondering how long has it been sitting in the heat and is it still good.

 

[whirlwindschicks]

Thank u! Glad to know that!

 

[cassie]

The rule around here as regards to Cornish X meaties is that anything that can't walk, is slow, is panting (unless it is hot), or has a purplish comb gets processed at once.

 

[Lexiluke]

7 1/2 weeks still produces a good size bird. I just processed 17 that were just 7 weeks and they averaged over 5 lbs. dressed. Good luck with the butchering.