Why won't our chick use her legs?

[adamziegler]

Our 3 week old pullet just in the last few days stopped using her legs. She just sits with her feet in front of her, resting on her "elbows". Everything else about her seems to be fine. She's eating, drinking, she can flop around enough to get to water and food, she peeps like a champion, her vent looks fine, as do both her legs. But she will not use them?! Is it possibly splayed leg? How can we tell?

The only thing we have tried so far is vitamin water... Seemed to make her more perky, but no change in her leg movement.

Thanks!

 

[aayto1]

I have had this issue with my chicks begore. Sometimes chicks are born healthy but then go downhill from there. Splayed legs only happen if a chick is on a wet surface for a while. In worst case sinario you may have to ne cruel to be kind if the chick doesnt improve. Give t he chick a chance to improve first though as it may recover yet

 

[adamziegler]

thanks for the reply. We have discovered the problem is a slipped achilles tendon on both legs, but now have more questions. Please see new thread:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/764206/how-to-splint-a-slipped-achilles-tendon