Hen with Swollen Wattles/Comb

[MM10]

I have a 4-5 year old speckled Sussex hen that is having an issue with swollen wattles. I first noticed this in October 2024 and attributed it to her getting older. The swelling has only gotten worse and it's starting to affect her ability to see.

She appears to be a normal weight, is eating and drinking just fine, and roams around the yard with all the other chickens. If anything she has a more voracious appetite than normal/the other hens.

No other birds are showing any signs of illness. She does not have any coughing, nasal or eye discharge. Her poops are normal.

Her wattles feel solid-ish (similar to an ear lobe) and are hot to the touch. They appear pale in some places, but red/purple in others. I noticed today they had a couple of blood spots on them so I'm afraid the other chickens are started to peck at her.

Shes currently separated in my garage, and I'm working with a vet. Just curious what others think may be the issue and what they may recommend for treatment.

Thanks!

 

[WoDia]

@MM10 Does the vet have her on medication? What is the diagnosis? Definitely continue to keep her isolated, and monitor her closely to ensure her breathing isn’t being affected. And, be sure she is continuing to eat and drink. Can she breathe alright? To me, this looks like a very severe upper respiratory infection (swelling of the face and wattles and foamy eyes). I hope that your vet is working closely with you to help your hen. Hopefully others will reply to you with even more specific advice, because I’ve never experienced anything like this within my flocks. I hope for her full recovery.