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Posted by Rachel in WA on 10/8/2007, 6:21 pm, in reply to "HELP! 6 month Rhode Island Red acting Lethargic"
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Check her butt to see if she has loose stool and is messy back there for one thing, that's a tail down scenario. If that is clear, palpate her belly very gently and see if she may be egg bound. If you feel an egg in there there are a number of tricks you may try to help her get it out. First dab some KY jelly or other water based lubricant in and around the vent. Then bring her inside to a quiet room where you can close the door against pets & kids and either hold her over a bucket of hot water or put her in a bucket of warm water. What you are trying to do is loosen and relax the muscles so that she can pass that egg. Sometimes pullets pass very large eggs and it is hard for them, especially if they can't get comfortable, like if the nest box is occupied or too drafty. Make sure she is completely dry before putting her back outside for a second try, and check on her every hour or so. She could also be constipated, but that is not likely if she ate so willingly. Check those few things and let people here know what you find out. If there is an egg she can't pass on her own you may have to get it out for her. I've never done that, so I'd post that here so someone who has can give tips on how to. Good luck, I hope she's better soon.
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