hen limping

by andy
(larnaca.cyprus)

First it started with my young hen limping, and then it slowly got worse. She then lost the use of
the leg. However, she is happy eating and drinking. I do not know what to do. Is there anything I can do?
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If your hen is still eating and drinking and her stools are fine, then it is probably not that serious. However, lameness in chickens can be caused by a large number of problems, including viruses, a poor diet and parasites.

But one of the most common cause of lameness is when sometimes when chickens jump down from roosting places they can strain or even break the bones in the leg. Bumblefoot can also cause a hen to go lame.

Your first action should be to examine your hen for any obvious reasons for her discomfort. Although the legs and feet would be the first place most people would look at, you mustn't forget the vent either. Sometimes if a hen is egg-bound she will go lame.

Now check the foot carefully to see if there is anything in or under her foot that would be causing her pain. Look for any swellings on the leg.

If there is no break, but either a small swelling or little else, separate her from the rest of your hens and keep her on her own in a quiet place that is a small area with clean water and food. Keep a close eye on her, making sure that her condition is stable. If it is not serious, she should be fine within a couple of days.

If she doesn't get any better after that, or seems to get worse, you will have to call in the vet.

Regards
Kathryn
Countryfarm Lifestyles