[beth123]

Hi

My warren appears to be hurt and I have no idea what to do.  I've just been outside to have a look at her and noticed that her feathers were ruffled on the back of her neck.  When I've moved the feathers to have a look I can't actually see a cut or anything but it looks like dry blood and some clear liquid thats dried and made all the feathers go hard.  She's breathing fine and her eyes are nice and bright and clear but she is opening and closing them very slowly.  As far as I know she's not eaten any thing today and I couldn't even tempt her with broccoli.  The only thing I had in the house was surgical spirits so I tipped some on to where I think shes hurt.   

I've also noticed that she is covered in what looks like dust, it's also really visible on my black rock.  I've had a good look and can't see any lice but could they be eggs?

I'm very inexperienced and have already lost 3 of my girls that were ill when they arrived.  Does anyone know what to do?  I really hope someone can help.   

[beth123]

I've just been back out to check on her and the other chickens are pecking at her now and she's not even trying to get away from them.

[tesni]

is it possible to quarantine her?  either in a separate run or in pet carrier until you know what is going on?  I'm afraid I have no ideas other than to suggest a trip to a vet...... I'm sure someone will offer some practical advice soon, good luck

[madcat]

Agree with tesni - she beat me to it. 

I'm sure a real chicken person will be along soon to give you active advice - but as a pet person, i would get her out of there and into somewhere calm and warm and not too bright on her own.  Then the others cant bully/hurt her, and if she is infectious, you are limiting contact.

[beth123]

Hi there,

I've brought her inside in a box with some straw but she's now began breathing funny.  It sounds like she's snoring.

[bantam novice]

Oh Beth I hope she pulls through.  I would echo the advice to get her to a vet asap.  In the meantime good luck...fingers toes adn everything crossed.

[joyfull]

yes agree keep her inside in the quiet and try her with some fluids, She will need to see a vet asap, often when chickens appear to be ill they are very very ill and the fact that she is allowing the others to peck her also confirms this. If she won't eat a slurry of layers and water ground and mixed together (you could try syringing this into her beak) then try giving her sugared water to give her some energy.

[beth123]

I've been sat up all night looking after my poorly warren, Joyce, who's been in the conservatory in a dog cage.  I just left the cage door open to get her some fresh water and when I went back in she was sat on sofa making herself very comfortable.  I think she must be feeling better than she is letting on.   

[compostqueen]

Glad to hear it