4m x 3m Omlet pen, cube, new auto door still boxed and coop light

[appleblossom]

My beautiful ex batt hen was the the boss and quite stroppy until a week ago when she started to look "pale" I started the worming process hoping this would do the trick but today she is sitting hunched up and appears to be "yawning" and has diarrhoea. she is free ranging a bit but seems to have less energy, I am really worried and would appreciate any words of advice.

[badgerbluebadger]

Is she still laying? I would get her in the warm and make sure she is eating and drinking - Chickens can go down hill very fast - A vet maybe be in order.

[appleblossom]

Thank you for the swift response she hasnt layed for about a week which made us think she may have worms. She has picked up a bit since the last post and is eating. We will watch her for the day and try to get a vet in our area. Will keep you posted

[buffie]

Update from appleblossom

 

She is up and scratching again still looks pale but is not yawning as much. We kept her in the run yesterday to make sure she ate and drank, she has fed a little this morning We are first timers and now I understand the feeling of helplessness when a hen goes off colour, thank goodness for the forum its good to know help and support is out there

 

 

I've popped this into your original thread appleblossom so it stays in one place and everyone can keep up to date with your news. I am pleased she is a little improved

 

I'll lock the other topic,

 

Buffie x

[emmaw298]

Glad to hear she is perking up a bit.

During the worming, did you check her droppings for worms at all?

Yawning or stretching the neck and also head shaking can be signs of gapeworm. This may require a double dose of flubenvet (though not sure this is on the manufacturers label, think I read that on here..?). Keep an eye on her and get her to the vets if she deteriorates as she may need some antibiotics.

[appleblossom]

I didnt notice any worms in her droppings, she seemed to pick up for a couple of days but is not eating very much mash. I gave her broccoli and mash last night and she ate some of that. She just seems "worn out" not even bothering to follow me into the greenhouse. Thanks for the advice I will try to get a vet with hen experience and keep you posted