2009 Omlet cube and run for sale

[Emily and Nick]

We've just noticed one of our chickens is very unsteady on her feet. She's getting about but keeps collapsing every couple of steps. Can't work out if its a broken leg because it looks to be like she's losing her balance on both sides, but I might be wrong.

Does anyone have any clues?

Or should we just take her to the vet?

Please help.

 

Thanks!

[Chucky Mama]

She really needs to go straight to the vets.

[Christian]

If she is weight baring on the leg it is unlikely to be broken, however falling over is not a good sign. Could be as simple as an ear infection, but I would take her to the vet asap, to get a proper diagnosis.

 

Good luck.

[Emily and Nick]

We've been to the vets and our chicken has suspected Marek's disease.

He has given us oral medication and we've just had a go at getting it down her, but it was a nightmare and most of it went everywhere. We don't know what we're doing - any advice much appreciated.

Thanks

Emily

[Plum]

I've used a syringe. Try and keep chook calm so do everything gently and slowly. Wrap her in a towel to stop wings flapping and tuck her under your arm. Then with one hand you can hold her head and beak and with the other drop the medicine in over her tongue and release head so she can swallow. Good luck

[Christian]

Sometimes placing a drip on the top of the beak encourages them to drink it. As mentioned by Plum, wrapping her in a towel, will calm her. Good luck.

[Jools]

I'm sorry to hear that. Good luck.