[indigo]

I have a hen who lives on her own and has done for a year.  She free ranges all day when i am at home.  For the last few  days, she has been laying softshelled eggs (she has done in the past - but always came right).  A couple of the eggs seemed shell less.  She was eating and drinking fine yesterday - although i did notice she went in her laying box a couple of times - but no egg of any sort. Today she didnt come out when i opened her coop.  I left her for a while, and when i went back, she was straining as if to lay any egg - but nothing doing.  I have given her a hot bath, and using oil felt inside to see if there was an egg.  I cant feel anything. While i was feeling inside, she pushed and a load of clear liquid shot out.  She is now in a box in the house, standing up with head down and eyes closed.  She does open them when i go to her, but doesnt move.  she has had baytril (some i had left from about 6months ago - is this still alright?) and a few sips of water.  She is about 3 years old, a real pet - love  her to bits! What is the best thing to do now?

[indigo]

Hi
Isnt there anybody out there who has any idea what i can do now?

[helens-hens]

Hi Indigo

I was hoping that somebody who knows a bit more than me will reply to you. Couple of questions: what colour & consistency was the clear liquid that came out when you were examining her and does she appear to have a temperature (may be difficult to gauge without another hen to compare with)?

I am not sure how long the Baytril shelf life would be once it has been opened.

Personally I think I would take her to the vets if you can as she does sound quite ill.

Sorry I can't help any more - will keep fingers crossed for her.

[indigo]

Hi
Thanks helens hens -
She has gone downhill very quickly in the last couple of hours. The liquid was clear and like water.  She doesnt seem to have a temperature - although round her vent and below is quite red and feels warm.  Her comb is cold to the touch, which i believe is a bad sign.  She is lying down now although everynow and then she turns round.  But mostly she is just lying with her eyes closed.  I have syringed some water into her - but i really dont think she is going to make it.  I would take her to the vet if i thought there was a chance - but i honestly dont think there is.
But thanks again for your reply - it means a lot.

[helens-hens]

Hi Indigo

I'm really sorry to hear she has taken a turn for the worse. While there is life there is always hope, don't give up on her just yet.

Keeping everything crossed, let us know what happens.