Elderly cat breathing difficulties when purring

[Rowena]

My chickens are underweight and I'm not sure what to do to bulk them up - any ideas? I lost one in the cold snap, from an infection, and the vet commented how light she was and that there may have been a prior underlying problem.

 

So here are the vital signs:

 

They are both around a year old. They eat a good layer's pellet. We give them corn as a treat. They get out in the garden several hours a week. I worm them once a month. I have just finished treating them for coccidiosis - thought they might have it and this is what might have left the one I list weak. They have an occasional mineral supplement. I de-louse them etc.

 

One thing I have noticed is that they have always been indifferent to grit. They do eat sand though.

 

They have also stopped laying and appear to have gone broody - though body weight has been an issue long before. Any ideas to overcome broodiness also welcome...

 

One is a Maran, one a Sussex/Silkie cross.

 

Thanks v much

 

 

Rowena

[buffie]

I take my broodies to a separate pen during the day with feed and water (ours have the BHWT ex bats feed which is good for weight improvement) and away from their nest. By one week they will usually be back to normal.

 

If they are sitting on the nest you will need to take them off to let them eat anyway, no access to their nesting area of course or they'll dash straight back.

 

If they are generally happy and healthy this may well help.

 

Buffie x

[Egluntyne]

Laying hens are generally lighter than meat hens, as they put all their energies into egg production.

 

As long as they are otherwise well, and parasite free, I shouldn't worry.

[Rowena]

thx for such speedy replies. I felt the same breed on a free-range farm a couple of weeks ago, and they were much heavier. but perhaps they build muscle because they roam around

 

cheers

 

 

Rowena