Chicken bald back

[Claireabella]

I went to close the girls in the cube last night to find Gertrude and Ruby standing in the run looking a bit dazed. I didn't think much of it at the time because they had moved into a new run the day before and I thought perhaps they wasn't sure where to go to bed. I popped them in the cube and thought nothing more of it.

 

I let them out this morning and all the rest came out fine but Ruby staggered down two steps and went off the side of the ladder and Gertrude didn't come out at all. They are both closing their eyes and Ruby seems to be having particular trouble with her sight (judging height of the ladder etc.) and keeps rubbing her eyes on her neck. Both have terrible diarrhea and I'm convinced they've eaten something they shouldn't have. The only thing I can think of is some self-seeded foxgloves by their new run. I found one that has been stripped - just the roots left. Totally my fault

 

They've been in the house today so I can keep an eye on them, they've drank LOTS of water (I've added poultry tonic) and I've allowed them a small portion of pellets. I'm pretty sure it's not a crop problem, can anyone offer advice please if it is foxgloves causing this?

[jimnpaula]

The lethargy and diarrhoea are among the symptoms of foxglove ingestion. This was the first list a google search produced. I would be looking to get them to a vet as soon as you can.

[Claireabella]

Thank you for the link, the vets will be my next port of call. I'm just hoping that they are not any worse in the morning. They have been eating and drinking well and both have layed today, so I hope that's a positive sign.

[mullethunter]

Are the girls looking better this morning?

[jimnpaula]

Hope they're ok today - Obviously that list was for humans, maybe chickens are better at coping with this sort of thing as it's more likely? The diarrhoea meant their bodies were getting rid of the unwanted stuff so that's got to be a good thing.

[Claireabella]

I'm relieved to say that they are much better today, thank you for thinking of them. I was absolutely dreading opening the cube this morning but both came out ok, although Ruby was a bit more cautious. Gertie seems back to her normal self; Ruby is still a bit quiet if I'm honest. I had to go into work today but I've been getting updates from home and while she is a bit quiet, she's not been sleeping and her vision seems much better today, so I think she's on the mend.

 

Another lesson learned; needless to say, all the foxgloves are gone!

[jimnpaula]

I'm so glad!

[mullethunter]

Phew