laying hen limping

by Jeanene
(Northern MN)

One of my laying hens (12 months old) is limping. She looks otherwise healthy and I cannot see an injury. She does walk around outside but far less than she used to and she moves very slowly.

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laying hen limping

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May 07, 2011
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Reasons for a Limping Chicken
by: Countryfarm Lifestyles

There are a number of reasons for a limping chicken from a simple sprain or fracture to something more serious.

Chickens can sprain themselves or fracture legs if they have jumped off their perches that may be too high off the ground.

A limping chicken could also mean that the chicken has a case of bumblefoot. Examine the feet and see if you can find any areas that are hotter than usual, areas that are shiny or swollen. Affected areas will eventually fill with pus and will need to be drained.

Bumblefoot is often caused by the chickens having to walk on sharp, uneven surfaces or sit on jaggered, splintered perches.

Another reason for a limping chicken is Marek's disease which is more serious. This is a highly contagious disease that can wipe out your flock. It attacks the nervous system of your poultry and symptoms can either be singular or a combination of the following; paralysis of legs and wings, tumors on various organs. Combs will be pale and shrivelled, diarrhea is present and the chickens may also show some blindness.

If you are in doubt, it is always better to have your livestock checked over by a vet.

May 07, 2011
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laying hen limping
by: Jeanene

Can anyone tell me what might be causing the hen to limp? Anything I can do about it? Thanks

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