I have a pullet, hatched 3-15-14, that has always appeared pale, more so than the rest of her hatchlings. She has been wormed, and gets plenty of 16% feed. She keeps her eyes closed most of the time. What should I do for her to help her improve?
It's possible that she has some internal problem or disorder that has made her weak and sickly. I once had a bird that was never quite the same as my other chickens. Whenever she was stressed out, she would grow paler and act sleepy. She got Coccidiosis and was more susceptible than my other chickens to mites and lice. Around a year old, she died. I don't know why she was less resistant and strong as my other birds.
Be sure to check this bird for lice and mites. They can sap the energy of a chicken. Also, what dewormer did you use? Not all dewormers kill all worms or work as effectively. Does she eat and drink normally? Has she ever laid?
She ears just fine and is fleshy. No mites or lice that I can find. I've used Ivomec dewormer and raw pumpkins. She has never laid, neither has her sister from the same clutch.
Daysranch,
When and what did you worm your birds with, and what was the dosage?
Do you use a periodic cocci preventative such as Corid in the water?
Intestinal worms, cocci protozoa, Histomoniasis aka Blackhead (a condition spread by protozoa carried by cecal worms), ectoparasites like mites, poor diet, are all potential causes of anemia, which this bird has.
The feed is Nutrena Layer Crumbles 16%, Scratch and Peck (which is given as treats and has cracked wheat and sunflower seeds), and table scraps. They are let out to free range 4 hours a day.