Chick with respiratory issue

[Diane H]

Yes I’m keeping her warm. I have a heater and I’ve got her enclosed in the bathroom and a cat carrier so that has helped a lot. I think that just being away from the other chicks and not having to fight for food or warmth has helped. She cheeping this afternoon

 

[Diane H]

Sorry I’m not familiar with IB

 

[Eggcessive]

IB, or infectious bronchitis is a virus that causes sneezing and upper respiratory infection. It is spread by a carrier, as are most of respiratory diseases in chickens.

 

[chickens4pet]

I'm glad to hear she seemed a little better this afternoon.

If it wasn't an air sac - it's sometimes hard to tell respiratory diseases apart, but supportive care as you are providing, and some perseverance finding ways to keep them eating and drinking enough, can sometimes do the trick. Antibiotics would be the second try in the case of a downward trend.

You might not need it, but if she gets weaker, here is a food a bird vet gave me once for a sick chicken losing weight. High calorie, complete nutrition, easy to digest, easier to hand feed if necessary.
https://www.birdsafestore.com/Harri...MI7NnkwNfYiQMVm0b_AR1QBDrfEAQYBCABEgIQ4PD_BwE

Also on addressing loneliness: dropping in often and talking to her can really help. Playing in her (damp and fluffy) food with a finger while talking would sometimes get mine to eat. For a flock animal it is definitely a factor for recovery.

It sounds like you are taking good care of her. I hope she continues to improve. Keep us posted.

 

[Eggcessive]

I usually will keep a chicken with her flock inside the coop or run, but separate inside a dog crate or pen with food and water. That way, they feel more comfortable, and you don’t have problems reintegrating back into the flock or have pecking order problems. Let us know how she is doing.

 

[Diane H]

I usually will keep a chicken with her flock inside the coop or run, but separate inside a dog crate or pen with food and water. That way, they feel more comfortable, and you don’t have problems reintegrating back into the flock or have pecking order problems. Let us know how she is doing.

I often do that as well but with a respiratory issue I thought separating and more consistent warmth were a better choice. When (if ) she gets better I’ll integrate her back with her flock by putting her in a carrier with them till they’re used to her again and she doesn’t have to fight for food. Some of the chicks are much larger because their standards and she is obviously a bantam.

 

[Diane H]

Thank you all for your suggestions.
We are improving!!
More mobile and drinking well. And cheeping loud!