Why is my chicken not eating with an infected wound? | arlo.® Atlas

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

If your chicken isn’t eating and has an infected wound, the wound itself may be making it uncomfortable, but reduced appetite can also happen when a bird feels generally unwell, stressed or in pain. It’s sensible to check the wound, the bird’s behaviour and whether anything in the coop or flock setup could be adding to the problem.

Things To Check

1. Look at how much your chicken is actually eating and drinking, not just whether it’s standing near the feeder.

2. Check the wound for redness, swelling, heat, discharge, a bad smell, scabs or tissue that looks more damaged than before.

3. See whether the chicken is quieter than usual, standing apart from the flock, puffed up or less active.

4. Check if the bird can reach the feeder and drinker easily, especially if the wound is on the head, neck, chest, feet or legs.

5. Look for signs that other birds may be pecking at the wound or stopping the bird from eating.

6. Check the coop, bedding and run for wet, dirty or crowded conditions that may be making the wound harder to keep clean.

7. Notice whether droppings, breathing or balance look normal, as reduced appetite can sometimes go along with a wider illness picture.

Common Causes

The most common reason is pain or discomfort from the wound, especially if the area is swollen, open or being disturbed.

Another common cause is stress from infection, which can make a chicken feel off-colour and less interested in feed.

Sometimes the bird may be struggling to eat because the wound makes it awkward to move, peck or swallow, depending on where it is.

Pecking from other birds can also make matters worse, because the chicken may be too wary or unsettled to feed properly.

Less commonly, the wound infection may be part of a broader illness, so the appetite loss is not just about the skin injury itself.

What To Do

Separate the bird if needed so it can eat and drink without being bullied, and so you can keep a closer eye on it.

Offer fresh water and easy-to-reach feed, and keep food and drink spots clean and simple to access.

Keep the bird somewhere dry, calm and warm enough for rest, with clean bedding and minimal stress.

Check the wound regularly so you can spot changes in swelling, discharge or smell rather than assuming it’s improving.

Make sure the rest of the flock isn’t pecking at the area, and reduce anything in the environment that could keep the wound dirty.

If the chicken is still alert and taking some food, continue close monitoring, but don’t wait too long if it’s becoming weaker or eating less each day.

When To Contact A Vet

Speak to a vet if the chicken has stopped eating, is drinking very little, seems weak, the wound is rapidly worsening, or you notice marked swelling, pus, a strong smell or spreading redness. Get advice sooner if the bird is very quiet, struggling to stand, or if you’re worried the infection is affecting its general health.

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