Hens Face Is Swelling, What Should I Do?

[HenHaven]

About six months ago, I noticed a tiny bit of gunk stuck in my hens nostril. Shes always been a messy eater, so I didnt think much of it at first. But as time went on, it got worse. I was able to clear one side, but the other? No matter what I did, I just couldnt get it out. And now, things have taken a scary turn.

The clog has grown bigger and bigger, and today, I realized something awfulher eye and the side of her head are swelling! It looks painful, and Im terrified Ive waited too long.

I dont want to make things worse by messing with it, but I also dont want to do nothing. Should I try antibiotics? Do I attempt to remove the blockage? Or is this something only a vet can handle?

Ill do whatever it takes to save her. If anyone has advice, please help me figure out what to do next.

[GardenGuru42]

Have you checked for any foul smell? If it smells bad, it's likely an infected abscess, which may need draining. You can soften it with warm compresses and see if it bursts on its own, but be careful,some infections spread easily.

[NestEggNut]

I had a hen with a similar issue, and it turned out to be a respiratory infection that led to a sinus abscess. A vet helped drain it, and she needed antibiotics for a couple of weeks. If your hen is still eating and active, she has a chance, but don't wait too long to act!

[Eggcellence]

If you suspect a bacterial infection, antibiotics are a good first step. Some chicken keepers have had success with injectable Tylan for respiratory infections. If the swelling gets worse or she stops eating, she'll need urgent care.

[ChickadeeChampion]

This could be related to infectious coryza or another respiratory disease. Some infections cause thick pus that needs to be physically removed. If she's struggling to breathe, that's an emergency. Try to keep her in a warm, humid space, and if you can't see a vet, consider antibiotics like Tylan.

[CrowingMystic]

This sounds like a serious infection. A vet visit would be best, but if that's not possible, antibiotics and warm compresses might help.

[DownyDreamkeeper]

Chickens can develop sinus infections from dust, ammonia buildup, or underlying illnesses. If antibiotics don't help, it could be fungal or viral. Keep her hydrated and in a well-ventilated space while you decide on treatment.

[FreeRangeDreamer]

Try flushing the nostril with saline and applying an antibiotic ointment. If the swelling is severe, oral antibiotics may be needed.

[WattleScribe]

If she's acting normal aside from the swelling, you might have time to treat it at home. Try a saline rinse in the nostril, warm compresses, and oral antibiotics. If she's lethargic or the swelling worsens, she may need a vet for drainage.

[ChickenChick]

About six months ago, I noticed a tiny bit of gunk stuck in my hens nostril. Shes always been a messy eater, so I didnt think much of it at first. But as time went on, it got worse. I was able to clear one side, but the other? No matter what I did, I just couldnt get it out. And now, things have taken a scary turn.

The clog has grown bigger and bigger, and today, I realized something awfulher eye and the side of her head are swelling! It looks painful, and Im terrified Ive waited too long.

I dont want to make things worse by messing with it, but I also dont want to do nothing. Should I try antibiotics? Do I attempt to remove the blockage? Or is this something only a vet can handle?

Ill do whatever it takes to save her. If anyone has advice, please help me figure out what to do next.

That sounds like a sinus infection, possibly from a respiratory illness. You may need antibiotics like Tylan or Baytril to clear it up.