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

[Fee loves chickens]

My old hen, Amy, has been going downhill for the last 5 days. She hasn't eaten or drank anything for the last 4 days and is sitting motionless in the eglu. I have tried to give her water through a dropper but she wont take it. She can't stand up and I don't think she can see. She is about 6 years old.

 

I am not sure what to do next as I was surprised she was still here this morning.

 

Should I get the vet to come and put her to sleep or just wait?

 

She doesn't appear to be in any pain or distress.

 

What do you think?

[Olly]

Oh, I'm so sorry - that's very sad after six years.

 

If she doesn't seem to be in pain or distress, I'd just leave her be - the vet would probably want you to take her to them, which would be stressful for both of you. You could take her out of the Eglu and pop her in a cardboard box or a pet carrier indoors, if you think she is bothered by the other chickens being around her, on the other hand perhaps she feels better in familiar surroundings. I don't think there is much else you can do. Poor Amy - it sounds as if she's had a good life.

[Fee loves chickens]

Thanks Olly. I think you are probably right. I only have one other hen, Pearl, and she has just been nudging Amy now and again. I don't think she can work out what is going on.

 

I am surprised Amy can go on for so long without drinking in this hot weather although I have been putting ice packs in the box with her in the heat of the day to keep her cool.

 

Thanks for replying.

[laurmurf]

you could try syringing some water and avipro into her just to keep her comfortable while she eases away - you obviously have done very well by her and given her a really good life!

[Ain't Nobody Here]

I'm sorry to hear about Amy . She's obviously had a very long, happy life which is lovely .

[Fee loves chickens]

Amy died during the night but after we had buried her we fetched a Light Sussex and a Black Rock to be new friends for Amy. Everything seems to be going remarkably well so far.

 

Thanks for your help.

 

< :

[Guest]

I'm sorry to hear the news xxx

[Ain't Nobody Here]

I'm so sorry she's gone but am glad you've found some new friends for Pearl.

[cathybc]

sorry to hear about Amy

[Sal119]

Just read your posts, how sad. Never realised you could get attached to a chicken until I had them!

[Egluntyne]

Sorry to hear about Amy. Good luck with your new hens.

[Purplemaniacs]

Sorry to hear about Amy, good luck with the new hens, I hope the introductions go well.

Chrissie

[mostin]

So sorry to hear about Amy , 6 years is a long time.

 

I hope you new girls are all making friends ok.