Hey everyone! 👋
No one likes to see a sick hen, but quick action can make all the difference. Chickens are good at hiding illness, so if you notice signs of sickness, it’s important to act fast to help them recover.
🐔 Signs of a Sick Hen
🚨 Lethargy – Sitting puffed up, not moving much
🚨 Loss of Appetite – Not eating or drinking
🚨 Watery/Green Poop – Could indicate parasites or infection
🚨 Coughing/Sneezing – Respiratory infection
🚨 Pale Comb/Wattles – Possible anemia, parasites, or organ issues
🚨 Droopy Wings or Isolated from the Flock – A clear sign she’s not feeling well
✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Treating a Sick Hen
1️⃣ Quarantine Immediately 🏥
- Move her to a warm, quiet, separate area away from the flock.
- This prevents illness from spreading and allows close monitoring.
2️⃣ Check for Symptoms 🔎
- Look for injuries, parasites, swollen abdomen, or crop issues.
- Feel her crop in the morning—is it hard, squishy, or full? (Crop problems are common.)
3️⃣ Keep Her Hydrated 💧
- Offer electrolytes & vitamins in her water (Sav-A-Chick or homemade).
- If she won’t drink, use a syringe to drip water on her beak.
4️⃣ Feed Easy-to-Digest Foods 🍽️
- Scrambled eggs, mashed feed, or yogurt can help boost strength.
- Avoid grains or hard-to-digest foods if she’s weak.
5️⃣ Treat Based on Symptoms 🩺
- Respiratory illness? Try VetRx or a warm steam bath.
- Crop issues? Massage gently & offer probiotics.
- Diarrhea? Add activated charcoal or probiotics to feed.
- External parasites? Dust with food-grade diatomaceous earth or poultry-safe treatments.
6️⃣ Observe for 24-48 Hours ⏳
- If she improves, slowly reintegrate her to the flock.
- If she gets worse, consult a poultry vet ASAP.
🚨 When to Call a Vet
- Labored breathing, bloody stool, or severe lethargy.
- Egg-bound hens (straining with no egg for hours).
- Serious injuries or infections that don’t improve.
💬 Have You Nursed a Sick Hen Back to Health?
What worked best for you? Share your stories & tips below! 📸👇🐔🩺
