Wobbly chick - keeps moving backwards

[Merci BeauCoop]

It's feet look huge...one does seem a bit swollen.

What does that mean if her feet are swollen?

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Thank you for this. I am continuing with the drops and she has been able to drink from a small cup occasionally. She sleeps in my hand on my lap so I am able to keep her feet under her. I am hoping for the best but you mentioned “something more serious”. Just so that I am prepared, what could be the other possibilities?

Well, it could be failure to thrive, leg bone deformity or some other genetic/developmental disorder.
Can you move the legs - do they seem to hurt or does she indicate pain when the legs are manipulated?
It would be good if you try to massage the legs and encourage her to stand/put weight on them. A chick chair can help with that if she is agreeable.

 

[Merci BeauCoop]

Great news!!! Wilma is eating this morning!!! I know we still have a journey together but I am encouraged.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Great news!!! Wilma is eating this morning!!! I know we still have a journey together but I am encouraged.

I'm glad she is eating!
She looks like she's having a little trouble swallowing. If you find she's struggling with food, make her a wet mash out of her chick starter - soak a small amount of feed in warm water, let it soak for about 20-30minutes, add water if needed to make it to a consistency she likes. All mine like wet feed, so they get it daily in addition to dry feed.

 

[Merci BeauCoop]

I'm glad she is eating!
She looks like she's having a little trouble swallowing. If you find she's struggling with food, make her a wet mash out of her chick starter - soak a small amount of feed in warm water, let it soak for about 20-30minutes, add water if needed to make it to a consistency she likes. All mine like wet feed, so they get it daily in addition to dry feed.

Thank you! I will keep that in my back pocket. She has been eating almost continuously all morning. Still having a bit of a struggle getting her to drink though. I am also getting her to put a little more pressure on her legs too.

 

[Merci BeauCoop]

Thank you! I will keep that in my back pocket. She has been eating almost continuously all morning. Still having a bit of a struggle getting her to drink though. I am also getting her to put a little more pressure on her legs too.

Of course you were right about adding water. I added some of the electrolyte/vitamin B Complex mixture to the food and she does seem to be swallowing it better. It also gets her a bit more hydrated. Win-win. Thanks!