Wing Paralysis from Bobcat Attack!!!

[VickisChickis]

Hello All-
A few weeks ago my Barred Rock hen was attacked by a Bobcat. She had no puncture wounds but we could tell something was wrong with her wing. There was no sign of a break anywhere, but she was pretty sick for a while. We "nursed" her back to health with antibiotics and a lot of TLC & segregation (she is either in the garage or the house.) Now that time has passed, it looks as if she will be okay, however, she probably has a paralyzed wing. So my real question is this: What kind of life will she have being paralyzed? Will she be able to go back into our small flock of 7? She was the second in command. Is there any chance of her escaping predators if we ever let them free range again?(They've all been on "lock down" since the attack.)Have any of you ever had a chicken in this condition? We don't "cull" our chickens, we have them for eggs, and enjoyment. I would love to hear what you have done in this situation. Thanks!

 

[azygous]

I haven't had a chicken with a paralyzed wing, but I've had several with lame legs. Chickens with any disability will be at a distinct disadvantage if a predator targets them, and since they have a disability, they are all the more likely to be targeted.

The flock will notice the disability, also. It depends on how assertive your disabled hen is whether she will be able to stand up to any bullies in the flock who might notice her disability and target her.

However, first you need to re-integrate her into the flock. They will remember her, but they may give her a hard time the first time they see her again, especially with a bum wing. I recommend you introduce her with a safe barrier around her, such as a pet crate or special pen. Then after a day, let her mingle under supervision for a short period, extending it gradually over the next few days.

I would make a low perch for her in the coop, just high enough that she can step onto it. She won't be able to use any perches higher due to her inoperative wing. I would place her on the new perch after the others have already gone to roost. Then let her roost with the flock each night afterward. She should do just fine.