Medical Diagnosis: Water Belly (or Ascites) in a Backyard Chicken

RSM is here with a medical video: this one is about water belly, or Ascites, which is an incurable condition in a chicken. RSM teaches you all about what this condition is, how it occurs in the first place, how you can try to make your chicken more comfortable, and changes you might want to make when it comes to caring for your own flock. Please send love to RSM and her original girlie Calypso (Callie, Cal) to give her a great quality of life until it's time to say goodbye.
Note: You are shown Calypso's backside at the end of the clip if you want to see the swollen abdomen but feel free to stop the video if you aren't interested.

[@evanrosechannel]

I’m so sorry. She is had a great life and she was well taken care of. ❤️

[@heavyhorse7506]

Couple things-1st-please do not apologize for being emotional over something you love and care for, 2- please dont apologize for getting the diagnosis wrong initially, and 3-thank you so much, I have learned so much from you ♥ Your video and all the info has helped me help our chicken! I did the egg bound treatment first and it didnt work. I did the syringe draining and it did! I dont know how my hen will go but at the very least she got a warm bath, cuddles and a treatment to help ease her discomfort and hopefully have a more comfortable self no matter how long shes with us for. Thanks you and all the best ♥

[@mychaellamurray6702]

I have used a hypodermic needle to released the fluid from my chicken and it has made a big difference in her, I think the reason she got it was because she is the head chicken and always has a big stuffed full crop every evening as she will defend the food until she is full. I will keep draining her as long as she runs around with the rest of the girl's and remains top chicken, the moment she changes and becomes more lethargic then I will put her out of her misery myself as I don't want her to be taken away from her buddies, she know she comes indoors by herself meny times ,s for her it will be coming in for her cuddles x

[@ambernm9720]

I’m so sorry you had to go through this. This isn’t even my hen, but I’m crying because I understand how you feel

[@sharicampbell9068]

I am so sorry you are dealing with this, but, I want to thank you, truly, for sharing. I am learning as I raise my chickens, now in my second year....and, like you,, things come up with them....I have learned so much, but know I will still have much more to learn. Thank you & Bless you for what you do & how you care for your girls!

[@realsimplemama]

Thank you. I wanted to pass on the info as soon as I learned. If I help at least one person (and their beloved chicken), then the pain won’t be quite so bad.

[@cherokeepurple4480]

I’m so sorry about Calypso Sarah.❤️ You’ve given her a wonderful life and educated us so much through your experiences. Thank you.

[@jenessa_0974]

I’m so sorry. 😭😢 Calypso sounded like a great girl and I know she had a good life. I’m sending prayers for you and your family. 🤍 I’m glad we got to know her as much as we did. 💔

[@greenglassgirl5526]

Thank you so much for sharing this with us! ❤️😇🐔 And, thank you for loving Calypso (and all of your girls!) as much as you have. You teach us so much.

[@yoliebean]

I’m so sorry to hear about Calypso. I’m sending all my fellow chicken mama love to you all. You are such an inspiration and a great chicken tender! I can only imagine how you’re all feeling. Big hugs to you ❤️

[@cclaudiaxo]

Sending you hugs! Ugh I know its so sad 😞 i hope you find strength in all of this and please keep us posted on her ❤️

[@gwenhammett9349]

So sorry. Thank you for bravely helping inform others.

[@lindagarrett9470]

Dealing with water belly on one of my reds. I noticed she was walking more upright and also having difficulty breathing. I separated her from the flock gave her antibiotics and apple juice for 5 days and her breathing had improved so I put her kennel back in with the flock.. separate but together.. she was eating and drinking great so I took the syringe and drained her. I know it is temporary but she is still so full of life the day after draining she is back with the flock and doing gre

[@realsimplemama]

I’m proud of you!

[@lisacraig8328]

I know this had to have been very hard to share. Thank you! I'm brand new to chicken tending (only about 3 months) and I have learned so much from you. I'm so sorry that your girl is going through this. Sending hugs to you.

[@celestemarie9285]

My condolences Sarah💚 Calypso, I hope you know how treasured and loved you are. I hope you remaining days are filled with enjoyment. I know your mom will do everything in her power to take care for you and make things easier. Sending so much love from Iowa.

[@Minnie-2018]

So sorry to hear about Calypso she is a beautiful hen. And she has a wonderful mom who loves her.

[@whitewaves7788]

I cry when my chicken pass away. I can understand why you would consider her special. I have a certain respect for my little elder rooster Prince, because I am thankful he shared his babies with me. They have personalities, too, & are social. I actually enjoy chickens more than dogs or cats. They are kinda my favorite pet. I wish I could hug ya for using this tough time to educate others & possibly give another life a chance. Thank you for being you. I wish I could heal your angel for you.

[@realsimplemama]

You are so kind. Thank you so much.

[@gerryedeolden6407]

Thank you for saying water belly I’ve been struggling to have an answer for my sweet hen, now I do.

[@SureHowDoYouKnow]

Awww, sorry dear RSM.. Praying for your heart.. You gave her a wonderful life and honored her as she was dying..xoxo

[@shinylittlepeople]

I’m going through this too. My last few original girls have water belly… and i am very sad about it… thank you for sharing ❤️

[@realsimplemama]

I’m so very sorry. I didn’t learn about it until recently but it seems to hit older chickens fairly commonly. ❤️❤️❤️

[@shinylittlepeople]

I did the procedure and she is doing quite well. It’s cold and windy today and she is walking around scratching like a normal chicken… I’m so relieved. It was such a great video. Thanks again for posting. Turns out the other chicken has sour crop so I am treating her in other ways. If anyone is interested this is the video I used I’ll mention it on my tiny little channel in the comments of the water belly video I posted of me doing this procedure to my chicken Georgia. ❤️ it might not be for a few days because I have a lot going on. But I will try to remember to do it. Reminders are always good. Lol. …

[@loritemple7355]

So sorry to hear sweetie! 😥 Sending lots of love, and prayers for y'all!

[@theleah007]

Your video was very informing, it brought me to tears listening to you. I can totally understand your love for your babies, I'm the very same way...Thank you for the video.

[@davedree]

I'm sorry for your latest situation with Calypso. I've followed you from the start, I understand how special she is, I have one original Hen too. For Calypso as the fluid will increase in volume it will push on the internal organs, 1st sign is lack of energy and more day naps, 2nd stage is very fast shallow breathing when resting, 3rd is the signs of end of life (dark comb, not eating, listless etc) . What I do suggest is you looking into syringing the rear to relieve the fluid, it is a case by case basis dependent on the hen and factors. For me and my current 2 year old chicken who has this condition I drained her at stage 2, and she recovered back to her normal self for 5 months and could run without a waddle and sleep well at night with normal rate of breathing. She then needed a small drain just for comfort at around 6 months, It has been 8 months and she has no fluid present at the moment. I wish you all the best Huggsss x, I'm currently losing another rescue hen to Peronitis again!

[@realsimplemama]

That’s wonderful about the water belly! Thank you for telling me. I’m so sorry for your losses ❤️ Cal is still in stage one (and thank you for teaching me about the stages) but I haven’t drained fluid yet.

[@elmo9415]

I’m so sorry for your chickens condition I understand your pain completely😞 This is currently happening to my hen. I relate 100 percent . My hen is about 4 years old she’s the only oldest hen that I have left. My other two hens passed away maybe around 2-3 ish years ago, and it breaks my heart when my two girls passed and I don’t want it to happen to my only girl left😞💔. I found your video by searching up my hens condition, and your video was the ONLY one that I found that related to my hens symptoms. I truly thank you so much for you making this video for others including myself to exactly know what is happening to our chickens. Words can’t describe how thankful I came across your video. But at the same time is very heartbreaking and sad to me that you had to make this video and your hen is sick💔 I’m so so sorry and please don’t say sorry for being emotional and sad , we all have feelings and you have a right to feel this way of your hen, your chickens and hen are your babies your pets, and mine are too I hope all went well with your hen and many prayers to you and your hen. I understand your pain completely 💔😔

[@realsimplemama]

I’m so sorry that you’re going through this too. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@jenniferkatsoulas3824]

So sorry! So sad to lose her! Thankyou so much for this video…I have never heard of this condition!

[@cindystevenson9669]

You've given her a wonderful life...

[@Shelzbells]

So sorry about your girl Calypso.......its nice that she has such a loving mama to take care of her, love her , and let her go easy when the time comes. Hugs to you Sarah

[@realsimplemama]

✌🏼❤️🐓 thank you, my friend. I still miss her so much.

[@Shelzbells]

@@realsimplemama She was a very pretty chicken. I kept thinking...I wonder what kind of chicken that is...I thought maybe she was a copper maran at first. All your girls are really pretty breeds. I was glad that in one of your videos you mentioned what kind of chicken Calypso was. When It comes time for me to add to my little flock, I want a Black sex link. They are Beautiful

[@boots2337]

Big hugs to you all! Thanks as always for the great videos , they are so helpful!

[@annabrown243]

The tears I. Your voice 😢 I feel that!! I only have a few of my original girls left

[@brendasas8440]

I'm sorry Sara. I literally made the tough decision before l watched this video to let Sally go humanely tomorrow. She is such a sweet girl. But it's time. So l truly understand. Thanks for loving Calypso and sharing. Take care young lady .🐓

[@realsimplemama]

Oh honey I’m so sorry. Sally is so special and you’ve done such loving work for her. I’m proud of you and holding your hand through this. ❤️

[@wonderwoman88dt70]

I'm so sorry! I love my chickens so much, just like you do....I would be a wreck. Praying you find comfort in this sad time!

[@racheluk1759]

I realised one of my rescue hens had water belly a few days ago when I went to check on them at dusk and she hadn't hopped on the perch. I watched a few videos on draining the fluid and gave it a go. Couldn't believe how easy it was and watched her drip drain as she walked around and her wattles went from purple back to red by the end of the day. This morning she's looking so much better, and would do it again next time for her. Gurgle noise is also a sign.

[@realsimplemama]

Oh my gosh wow! I’m very proud of you. And yes you’re right you’ll probably have to do it again. Great job! ✌🏼❤️🐓

[@racheluk1759]

@@realsimplemama she's a rescue from barn kept (5000 in one barn). Although she's only 3 her start was highly stressful. Thought she was egg bound by the way she acted, until I picked her up and felt her ballooned belly. Love your videos by the way 😊

[@CoyoteCrossingSanctuary]

@@racheluk1759 Please what did you do with o drain? Did you make an incision?

[@racheluk1759]

@@CoyoteCrossingSanctuary I used a large syringe needle. It's worth checking out some videos of someone doing it as you have to be careful not to damage them. Unfortunately it's a sign of a bad heart and she lived for another 4 or 5 weeks before she passed away.

[@CoyoteCrossingSanctuary]

@@racheluk1759 Thank you

[@voodookitchenmama]

Thank you for sharing this! Never heard of water belly, but I will do some more research on it, so I will know what to look for if I ever encounter it.

[@evelynrogers7145]

Chickens can just get sick and just pass. I lost 2 of mine . It hurts. Specially if there your favorite

[@waddledottz]

My husband has the cutest black Chicken with red plumage on her neck, He loves her and she loves him and goes to sleep on his lap whenever she can, I cannot imagine how sad he'll be when she passes, let's hope she lives for a long long time because she makes out days so much happier and gives the tastiest eggs

[@Czibs111]

Water belly or ascites is caused by a peritoneal infection usually from undeveloped yoke left in the egg tract.

[@Czibs111]

Early antibiotic treatment and aspiration can resolve the issue . Must be caught early

[@froginprogress8510]

Wondering if this is what my 10-year-old hen is dealing with. She pretty rarely lays anymore, but I've soaked her twice in epsom salt baths, lubricated (tried to) her vent with coconut oil, and just tried to help her feel better thinking she was eggbound. Hoping she's still with us in the morning. She's my last hen from my original little flock, and was a day and a half when I got her.

[@realsimplemama]

Oh my goodness I’m so sorry. Poor girl and poor you too! If she feels really firm at her “undercarriage” I would guess an egg issue but if it’s softer and squishier I would suspect ascites instead. I do feel like it’s more common with older hens too. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@Minnie-2018]

I'm new to chicken's just adopted my flock 4 month's ago. My flock has had lice, now coccidis it's been a rough start to chicken keeping.

[@ToniMBullock]

I have a hen with water belly. She’s only 1. It happened after my flock came down with a respiratory infection that I suspect was bronchitis. I separated her from the group for about 2 months. She continued to lay eggs most days (so I knew she wasn’t egg-bound) in the beginning she was like your chicken is now. Couldn’t walk well. But, she kept eating like normal, eating a ton actually. I started giving her Rooster Booster probiotic/electrolyte powder in her water and the belly went down. I never drained it. She doesn’t have feathers there anymore, but the last time I checked that loose skin from the swelling is thickened and wrinkled like a raisin. There’s just a small fluid pocket now. Her posture improved, no more penguin waddle. Not sure why the probiotics helped her, but I was able to put her back with the flock and she’s doing well. I make sure to give her the probiotic still. What I read online is that it could be heart failure. I’m not sure but as long as she’s improving I’m going to leave her be and let her die naturally. I’m sorry about your chicken baby. 💙 I also gave her the rooster booster liquid and granule multivitamin in her food and water along with the rooster booster b12 liquid in her water for the first month until I started the rooster booster electrolyte powder. I’m sure the extra vitamins helped her as well.

[@lynnjones3596]

When I took precious to vet he did say that it could be an infection instead of water belly. He tested mine and it was definitely water belly. He said if it was infection we could treat and it would get better. He said it's something that you have to try or bring to vet. I tried everything and she didn't improve. I'm so happy your baby made it. Fills my ❤️

[@DefiantAngel87]

​@@lynnjones3596I'm so sorry

[@christinereeves3796]

Thank you for this information. I’m very sorry for your experience with this.🙏

[@taylorshomestead3934]

So sorry! She is a beautiful chicken! 🙏

[@robp1087]

Can anyone provide details where to purchase and what materials are needed to drain the fluid? Also where is best to stab the needle?

[@realsimplemama]

Hey there - I did see your message but I’m not comfortable trying to give you guidance as I just don’t know. Do you have a vet or farmer you could call near you? Or look up other videos too? I’m sorry I can’t help more. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@dongkumong]

So did you end up taking down your artificial lights then?

[@realsimplemama]

Hi! I actually never had lights in the coop. I did have Christmas lights outside but they were problematic with squirrels chewing on them! ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@JM-wp7te]

I just find your video, my chicken is suffering i don’t know what to do to put her to sleep since shes not feeling well. Sorry for the lost of your chicken i understand your pain is ugly to see animals that you love on pain and suffering. 🥴

[@realsimplemama]

Hey there. I’m so sorry you’re going through this. I’d contact an animal clinic or emergency vet as I don’t feel comfortable (nor have the experience) to tell you how to humanely euthanize. ✌🏻❤️🐓 I hope your chicken is able to recover and you can find some peace.

[@lara-hall]

Big hugs Darlin, I'm so sorry. I just went through this as well, last week. I did all that I could for a month. Vitamins, antibiotics, draining the fluid, etc.

[@realsimplemama]

Oh my gosh I’m so sorry. We lost a young one to a reproductive tumor a few weeks ago.

[@lara-hall]

@@realsimplemama it is absolutely the worst part of being a chicken mama.

[@dflaming1371]

That's always the catch for me. Once they start going downhill, I freeze a bit, because really it's the same 3 stories. The "regular problem", I had a girl who would get constipated (not eggbound) and some rest and a tiiiiny bit of ibuprofen would kill the pain so she could push. The "fake outs", ones that begin swelling, lethargy, or other issues but then are fine in a week. The girl that did that to me the most is 9 this March. And...everyone else. Vitamins, medicine, rest, care, handling, you and the bird are stressed out as she's in discomfort and you angst over whether to call the shot. I judge that on their response to me, even if they are lame (can't walk) if they perk up when I come to care for them they are still aware and getting some joy out of life. Sometimes they have the grace to pass in the night. Sometimes they wither until I have to sob and take them out back of the shed, usually after a week or so of just...staring, because it might be another MONTH of that if I dont. I have had one, ONE girl in 40 that came back from the brink. She declined until she couldn't stand in winter, she looked so bad I left her without water for the night like an idiot, thinking she had maybe hours. But she was still alive, I went down to give her food, water, vegetables and love since she could only sir in a box all day. I'd pick her up to stretch her legs. After 3 months spring hit, and she slowly gained strength and lived out a normal life for the next seven months. In fall I noticed she was stumbling here and there, when one night she finally collapsed, and died in my arms of a heart attack. It was so fast we couldn't even grab the gun to end it with less pain, so at least it was fast. It was almost better than finding them in the morning, because I fully know what happened and knew no one bothered her in her final moments. Again, this was the only success story. Right now I'm torn between throwing the book at one of my girls, or just...upping vitamins, separating her soon, and watching and spending extra time with her. she was pretty much born with doughy crop, it took 2 weeks of 3 times a day treatment (droplets of mixed water, lemon juice, red and cayenne pepper, and cinnamon) for her to not starve to death. She's 3 and has always had constant issues as her growth was stunted, I thought she'd be gone long before, it just came on suddenly this month and it hasn't swollen out of control, but she's turning purple and losing strength in just a week. I have more peace than before, but I wish they would all just GO like some of them do so I dont have to eternally wonder if I did something wrong, or let them suffer too long. At least I know she loved all her time before, she's always been so bright

[@GrowYourHomesteadWithAngie]

I have used artificial lights for 9 years. I’m dealing with my second hen to have this. Only my second! We run lights just in the coop part since it’s a shed and it’s very dark in there. But all these years and this is not common…. For me. But thanks for this

[@realsimplemama]

I’m sorry you’re dealing with it again! I hope you guys can help her and get to the bottom of it. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@KyleKaiser7]

I had a hen who was egg bound for two weeks, and now another one who’s been egg bound for almost two weeks; they can live MUCH longer being egg bound than people think (it’s not a 2 day perish cycle).

[@icywalrus4906]

It certainly can be a 2 day perish cycle.

[@redpillgirl1843]

So sad with you 😢, thanks for doing this video. I am new to chickens and this was very helpful.

[@realsimplemama]

It’s honestly not a super common thing - but I hope to help someone else with my experience. ✌🏼❤️🐓

[@terryedge3423]

I have alittle girl with water belly i'm going to drain her fluid and give her a longer life . I can't give up on her she never gave up on me ! I have done alot of research and yes it can come back and some it don't come back . Some have to be drained every 3 or so months I'm willing to drain her that often if need be !

[@Vanifest24]

Oh wow I’m going through exactly this, everything you are… I felt we had to put down too, also coco being an original chick, I’m gonna try draining …. Thank you

[@lizt3366]

I'm so sorry. I'm going through this right now with our Donna, a 5 year old Easter Egger. They are all special, but Donna was named after my Aunt Donna, who I lost a few years ago. She is also one of my originals. It's so sad. She was always my healthiest, most athletic girls. :(

[@xonlyoursforever]

my Peaches started standing like a penguin about a week ago but she was eating, drinking and expelling normal (a little watery but still had some solids) 3 days ago she couldn’t jump into their coop anymore so i had to pick her up and noticed how much heavier she was. she can walk but has turned pigeon toed and pretty much waddles. when she’s still her tail is down on the ground. I’ve brought her in the house and soaked her the other day and today in a warm epsom salt bath but all she did was poop in the water.. may 2023 will be year 3 since we got her. so im thinking she may have water belly too.. i’ve seen the videos of people draining their hens but idk if i can bring myself to do it. her vent isn’t bald.. she has a lot of new feathers there and under her that i don’t think she can reach since they’re still encased. she felt like a porcupine when i reached under her during her first bath.

[@realsimplemama]

Oh no. I’m so sorry to hear this. How is she doing now? Tail down definitely means she’s hurting. I’m hoping you have an avian vet close by who could confirm the diagnosis and drain it if necessary. Please keep me updated. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@mychaellamurray6702]

Please try the draining . It will vastly improve her quality of life. I put a big towel in the bottom of my laundry basket then insert the needle and I pop her in the basket and just give her treats while she is draining and of course smooth her lots, like yourself she is one of my original 4 chickens I started out with and I am glad I drained her rather than put her down x

[@andreaburke6009]

Biggggs hugggs my girl ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@justinewhite-hadley3138]

Oh hun.....we still, as of today, have 2 more ladies left out of our original flock. They turned ELEVEN yrs old 3 months ago!!! I LOVE every chicka lady we've gotten to care for and I've cried over every single one of our losses. The few we knew we wouldn't save, we took to the vet. They give them a special gas mask to put them to sleep, then give them a shot to stop the heart. Because they are alseep, there is NO suffering. If you have the funds And a vet who practices on chicken's, it's a great way to go. I am sending you the biggest hug❤❤😢

[@realsimplemama]

This is so kind of you to say. Thank you ✌🏻❤️🐓 and I have two girlies who are over 8 now!

[@justinewhite-hadley3138]

@@realsimplemama That's Wonderful!!! We had NO idea they could last so long!! We've moved 3 times and been evacuated for fires twice with them. They sure become a part of the family don't they 😇 One of our 1 and a half yr olds seems to have water belly. But she walks fine, eats fine, still lays, just prefers to sit and not roost at night. This is how I found your video. I just subbed today. We're going to try the draining and see how it goes 🙏❤️

[@realsimplemama]

Oh good luck! I’m proud of you for helping her. And I’m so sorry about the evacuations. Yes they are so very special and funny and endearing, aren’t they?

[@Conny226]

My husband just saved our chicken he did pull the fluid out of her bud🤪💉it worked she is filling so much better.

[@sabrinawoodard5788]

Thank you for this really good video I am in the same situation I thought she is egg bound but after a week and Epson bath every night and calcium she is still the same she’s not getting worse but she’s not getting better either I am trying to find someone around my area who can instruct me in draining the water cause I am too scared to do it.. my chicken is a little over three year old also backyard chicken she has seven other sisters but I have two Other flock my chickens were never sick the last four years so this is all new to me fingers crossed and prayers for my little chicken I’ll keep you updated if I find someone who instruct me and if she gets better

[@realsimplemama]

Oh good luck to you! I hope it all works out. Give me an update!

[@clynnw9867]

Very informative I am experiencing this now😢

[@realsimplemama]

I’m so sorry. I’m here for you. ✌🏻❤️🐓 [e-mail]

[@theresebrandser]

I have a hen right now that has me stumped. She’s only a little over one year old. I went into the coop this morning and her tail was down and her comb was limp over her face. Her belly does feel swollen. Now I’m wondering. I assumed she is egg bound, she also appears to have sour crop. Giving her Greek yogurt and some water with acv. It’s so sad to see them not feel well

[@realsimplemama]

Oh I’m sorry. You’re right, she doesn’t feel good. I hope you can isolate her and help her out. ✌🏼❤️🐓

[@beebop9808]

That's tuff. Bless your heart. Chickens are prey animals and there's a lot of trust goes on in that relationship with them. Not a simple thing to overcome a feeling of betrayal of that trust. More there than just the love for them.

[@annmacbride3100]

what about vent gleet? some of this stuff all looks the same.

[@realsimplemama]

Vent gleet is essentially a yeast infection so with that you’d be dealing with smelly discharge, not a swollen belly.

[@Breeandfree]

Mine is a baby still and has the water balloon feeling but more towards the front, what is going on?

[@realsimplemama]

Hi! Check out a diagram of the chicken’s anatomy - if it’s evening, and it’s up on their chest, it may just be a full crop. Chickens have a totally different digestive system so that “sac” will be full at night, since they’ve eaten all day! ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@Breeandfree]

@@realsimplemama it’s like it’s really full but it doesn’t go down by morning, it’s been that way 3 days

[@realsimplemama]

Ok I’d look into sour crop or impacted crop then. If you can, isolate her and just give her fresh water with oregano oil. I have videos here about this condition too.

[@Breeandfree]

@@realsimplemama thank you 🙏🏽

[@typisoha]

some of this info is true, but water belly can happen to any age chicken, it doesnt depend on what you feed them. you can drain the water every 3 to 6 months and keep them alive, on my experience since my year and a half had water belly you lucky if she laid an egg. shes almost 3 and shes a happy hen i keep an eye on her and she starts getting water again ill do it again, and sometimes she goes 6 months without water belly.

[@realsimplemama]

I’m so proud of you for taking care of her! Thank you for sharing with us. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@sharoncourt75]

Simple mama mine hen was a hybrid a golden comet, this hapened because the breed, they lay in their own even with out ligths, I had her for almost 3 years but she was an adult already when give to me, there are air sack pockets in 6 places, is very easy to puncture 1 of them

[@wethepeoplesvoice6174]

Are you sure it’s water belly? Cause I had the SAME EXACT THING.. thinking she was egg bound. So I was soaking her twice a day in warm water 2 times a day in Epsom salt and … she didn’t die. But examined her stomach and because we soaked her frequently (not more than 2 times a day) BUT all that water shifted into her skin and gave the appearance of water belly but it WAS NOT!!! Took her to the vet and all she had was coccidiosis. 🤦‍♀️ Glad I didn’t cull her!!

[@realsimplemama]

Hi! That’s so strange. I’m proud of you for figuring it out! In my case, it was water belly as it began before I was doing a lot of soaking. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@db2466]

you have care about their quality of life!

[@TheOldSwedesFarm]

We're so sorry for you. You could tell in your voice that you love your girls. It's hard to not get close to them. We just posted a video regarding wheezing in one of our girls. Please check it out and give us your opinion. Maybe you've seen this. Thanks for sharing this video. We learned a lot. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

[@kibathewhitewolf5037]

I just lost a chicken to possibly heatstroke (i didnt try to check as i thought it was obvious). i had 4 chickens (Road island reds) and they are about 1+ year old, they had experienced summer last year. my sister (35 maybe) had gotten 4 Buffs and 2 easter eggers, all raised last summer in an air-conditioned garage while they grew. by the time winter came around she had built a custom coup for them. it has no ventilation, and reflective ceiling, i assume for light and heat. because of her error of only thinking of winter, everything was permanent. she moved before summar began and asked us to take in the 6 chickens becuz the new house doesnt allow chickens (HOA). we said yes and she randomly dropped them off in our backyard while I was at work and my dad was laid up in bed cuz he was in so much pain with his legs he couldnt walk. her house had shade by the coup and a fence next to them- ours is a big open yard with a select number of trees that dont give enough shade. so she basically left us chickens in an oven becuz she neglected to think longterm or possibly intended for us to take them in and possibly make us at fault (unlikely but idk for sure). the other day i noticed a chicken acting funny than normal, we've had them for maybe 2 weeks and havent been able to do anything to change the living situation. one of the easter eggers i just named was dead. she looked like she mightve died in her sleep cuz her legs were stiff but she had a limp head. my dad was still laid up but i was heartbroken and couldn't fathom what mightve happened or what i should do. we narrowed it down to the hen likely being dehydrated cuz of the situation because we havent been able to let the chickens out their sleeping area because the bottom of the coup has a 5 inch gap cuz of some stupid wheels my sister put on and we have snakes, raccoons, hawks and etc.. It hurt a lot because i know that i couldve prevented it maybe but it just hurt.

[@realsimplemama]

Oh I’m so sorry. That’s a tough situation and everyone is trying to do their best. Keep providing as much as you can but also give yourself grace. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@sharifritz5406]

You can find videos on how to drain the fluid here on KZbin. After draining someone suggested giving the chicken an herb called "Milk Thistle" which helps support the liver. You can find this wherever vitamins or supplements are sold. You could probably add it to some yogurt and feed to your chicken that way. You could try to give it to your chicken daily. I found this information on a backyard poultry forum. Unfortunately, these are all temporary fixes. We wish our lovely chickie ladies could live forever but sadly that is not the reality.

[@realsimplemama]

Thank you for sharing. I haven’t tried those remedies 👍🏼 and you’re right, there’s no cure so the body will continue to make more fluid no matter what. 🫤

[@anhamnt2881]

hello, i was told that this water in the belly was contagious so i hesitate to put my hen with her sisters....

[@realsimplemama]

Hi! I wouldn’t think that It’s contagious but I would check with a vet to be sure. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@brendavincent2842]

It's not contagious.

[@vincentcunningham6001]

I have this issue at the moment. I thought she was egg bound

[@realsimplemama]

It’s possible as they can show similar situations for both. But now you know it might be something else! ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@GonjaGrowinGirl]

Hello! I'm sorry your going thru this, but thankyou so much for your video. Ill be sending you and Colypso positive vibes. You mentioned plain greek yogurt? How often can they have that, and what other things besides the dried meal worms can they have?? I'm needing more varietal in the treat department, so your expertise is greatly appreciated !

[@realsimplemama]

Hi! I have a whole playlist on Chicken Treats and Snacks but there are a few foods to avoid (onions, salt, processed foods), and their regular layer food should be 80%+ of their diet. So while it’s fun and cute we can’t over-dose them on treats as obesity is a killer and causes other issues later on. I like to give mine leafy veggies - they love spinach and giving them a head of lettuce on a rope is hilarious! They also love frozen fruit which is great in summer. I love Grubterra and will also give them black oil sunflower seeds. That should be enough to get you in trouble for now 😄

[@jaygriffin4041]

My Rhode Island Red started looking like a penguin when she developed water belly. I drained her, but it was terminal.

[@realsimplemama]

I’m so sorry. I’m proud of you for helping her. ✌🏼❤️🐓

[@jackiemarie7091]

Speaking of artificial lighting... I have lights up in my coops bc of predators. The light detours the coyotes that we have. When you say the light forces them to lay eggs. So my lights are bad for them at night time?

[@realsimplemama]

That depends on how much light actually gets into the coop. Just like us, having a bright light in your face as you sleep can mess with your sleep cycle. For the laying hens, more “waking hours” will pressure their bodies to lay more eggs in early life. This can shorten their life span, and make them lay less eggs as they get older (because they’ve laid all their eggs already). Does that make sense? An egg laying factories, for example, they want to pump as many eggs out of a hen as quickly as possible so they keep the lights on for longer hours so that the hen basically lays an egg every day. But it is hard on their bodies physically, and they have gone through there a finite supply of eggs much more quickly than if they were out in the wild. In my opinion, it is better to let your hands take a season of rest in the winter with her body can just focus on them staying warm and healthy, because they will be able to keep laying eggs for years and hopefully have a longer life! And now you have inspired me to make a video about this :-) ultimately it is up to your personal decision and your lifestyle as to whether or not you keep lights on in the coop, but I personally never will.

[@darkblade9745]

I’m not sure what my hen has it’s like her skin peeled off on her underside, it might be water belly but I’m not sure, I’m so sorry about Calipso my hen is also the last of her flock

[@realsimplemama]

Oh no I’m sorry. Was she just sitting too much and the skin is irritated?

[@darkblade9745]

No it looked like a wound like some how she got cut but not deep enough to show her organs

[@Newshoundfortruth]

I had one like that. I soaked her and it came off with fresh clean skin under. But whatever it was must have attracted flies, she had some maggots. Idk if any got inside. But her belly felt like she had a tumor. She kept eating and drinking but couldn't walk or lay properly. She also had diarrhea.

[@terryedge3423]

I want to give an update I drained some with syringe about half an hour ago shes still draining out of the hole . Before she would'nt eat or drink anything and breathing very hard. Now shes eating drinking scratching breathing normal . I was scared to death to stick a needle in her but sure glad i did . Its best with 2 people and ALWAY drain the baby on the right side and below her vent ! Now i get more time with my sweet lady ! And Happy Easter to everyone

[@realsimplemama]

Proud of you!

[@terryedge3423]

@@realsimplemama Did you loose your little girl hope not ! Its scary to drain them but to me well worth it ! I hope i dident ruin you video ? I never meant to do that . Ive watched many of you videos and learned alot Thank you . Hope it never happens again to you . but with 2 people very easy The hen i just did has been standing eating and drinking since .Thank you for your reply also

[@realsimplemama]

No problem! You didn’t ruin anything 👍🏼 she did end up passing away but it was from age/stress/attack. The water belly had healed on its own so it wasn’t the cause of death.

[@terryedge3423]

@@realsimplemama Its so very hard to lose a baby . We had a house fire and lost everything including our vehicles . My babys helped me through it . I don't know what i would have done without them !

[@realsimplemama]

Oh my gosh I am so sorry! Thank God you made it. And look at you making the world a better place ✌🏼❤️🐓

[@Newshoundfortruth]

Could you message me how to put them down humanely? I have had a few with water belly. It's too sad.

[@realsimplemama]

I’m so sorry. You can put them in a box or bag with a chemical that they breathe to go to sleep; some prefer to break the neck. I personally have never had to euthanize and I wouldn’t be comfortable telling you how. Maybe look it up, ask a local, or call a vet? I’m so sorry. ✌🏼❤️🐓

[@lynnjones3596]

Sweetheart I know how you feel. I only use my light on cold nights because it gets down to 15 and 20 degrees. Not wanting more eggs I just want to make sure they're warm. But anyway I just had to make the decision to put my beautiful baby girl that was 10mths old down. I wanted to keep her but I knew I couldn't let her go through that. With all the years I've had chickens I've never heard of this. If I want more babies and I don't have a broody I incubate my own. She was the most beautiful girl I had. I am so sorry.

[@realsimplemama]

Oh nooooo sweetie I am so sorry too. I’m proud of you for being selfless but it’s o difficult for those of us left behind. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@lynnjones3596]

Sweetheart it was the most difficult decision I've ever made. I finally found a vet 1hr away. I didn't care what so ever. My babies are family and even the vet asked if I ate them. I looked at him with tears in my eyes and I said NO. I have a cemetery for all my babies. Needless to say he was in tears. He said he has never met someone like me before. I was happy. I told him about a sheep I had that was about 100lbs and didn't make it. Well my husband was so sweet and dug the biggest hole for my Leia. I've seen ppl who don't treat them like family and it sickens me. But the feeling of your main one in your 1st flock is the hardest. I still have 1 thank goodness but I definitely know I'll be a hot mess then.

[@realsimplemama]

Oh my gosh. That is so beautiful and sad. I hope you’re able to get more if that’s what you want to do. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@lynnjones3596]

Sweetheart I didn't know a thing about sheep at 1st. But one day someone dropped off a lamb just born maybe an hr old. I couldn't leave her. Well I bottle fed her and she stayed in house till she got older and we built a barn for her. I didn't want her by herself so I purchased another lamb. I named 1st one Chloe Elizabeth and the other Leia. After I lost Leia I was so lost a Chloe was so depressed. So I went out looking lol. I found baby pygmy goats. I was only intended to get one but they were twins and stayed side beside so I couldn't take just 1 lol. So now I have Tinker and Rosetta lol. Chloe is going on 9 and the others are 4. I had to do a lot of googling but I managed. My dogs, chickens, and the girls all get along. I wouldn't change anything. It's the heart break for me. My babies know me inside and out. Even my rooster Bully. He is a snuggle bug and loves pictures. Everyone I know can't believe how much he loves me and wants to snuggle. Losing a baby is the most heart breaking thing for me. Everyone says get prepared but you never do. At least me.

[@MJYouAreNotAlone1]

That is so sad honey my heart is breaking for you😭😭😭😭😭😭🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@hazelturner1541]

Awwww ❤

[@donnaann8258]

😢❤️

[@Slenderspyder1]

So, in the research that I've seen you can't drain as much fluid as you want you have to gradually drain more. If you have a hen with water belly I would cull but if you don't see another video in the correct way to drain the fluid.

[@realsimplemama]

Yes and if you do drain fluid, chances are you will have to do it in a regular basis for the rest of their life. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@rosesmith6208]

my sussex died from heart failure a few weeks ago she was only two, the other chikens never did like being around her so she ended up alone alot. I seen her lying by the back door and I thought she was trying to lay an egg (sometimes the other chickens hog the nesting boxes) I told her the boxes were empty, and she was panting a little bit, two hours later she was dead i checked her over really good for injury discharges her eyes were clear she had no signs of infection checked her vent clear and healthy looking no discharges. I can only conclude a underlying defect in her heart. water belly is probably the same cause as in people who get edema, heart failure. the heart is giving out. or leaky blood vessels too perhaps due to damage of some kind? since the fluid doesnt have any blood at all in it? I am guessing that water molecules must be smaller then blood molecules. sounds stupid but only way I can make sense os something. I am so sorry for your loss, your poor little girl. and yes we must work with nature not against it, I do not tell my chickens what to do and I dont force their bodies to do anything they dont want to do hence no lighting.

[@realsimplemama]

I’m so sorry. It’s so sad. I bet you’re right that it was her heart. The fluid overflows the liver in the case of water belly and so it goes into the body cavity. All that creates more pressure on the heart. Callie is still doing fine, hangs out outside with her sisters all day and is still eating and drinking. Just slowing down. ✌🏼❤️🐓

[@an5210]

i know its 2 yrs later but this can just be drained with a 30ml syringe. I did it today on mine

[@realsimplemama]

Yes, you’re right, that is a great temporary solution for anybody who feels comfortable doing that! Unfortunately, it will have to be done on a regular basis, so just keep an eye on your bird, but it is great to have those skills so you can do it yourself!

[@an5210]

@@realsimplemama yes I am aware but better than culling it

[@ASmileAdayful]

😢 Oh Mama😘🙏

[@sharoncourt75]

Mine started like that, I drain her with a needle for about a month and half and then Mareks kick in and kill her.

[@grider8344]

I feel your pain

[@realsimplemama]

I’m so sorry that you do. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@stevemlejnek7073]

I understand the emotional attachment. A couple weeks ago I lost my longest living chicken in my flock. Mildred was 8 years old. She developed badly twisted toes shortly after hatching and overcame that. She survived a dog attack. She survived having a prolapsed cloaca. At age 4 for the first and only time in her life she went broody and hatched 7 chicks, and was a great Momma. It was sad to see her slow down and pass.

[@realsimplemama]

Oh no. I am so very sorry. It sounds like she lived an amazing life! I’m proud of you for taking such good care of her. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@SundryTalesOfConstance79WESTY]

Sad situation, but the video was Nooice! 😎 STOC

[@evelynrogers7145]

I took my girl to the vet. Don’t have the heart to do it myself

[@realsimplemama]

Yes I feel that way too. Unfortunately my usual vet has to do an exam first at $85 and then euthanasia is another $90 for a chicken so it’s hard either way. Cal is still alive and kicking and yelling at me 😄

[@jencameron8124]

Thanks so much, Sarah, for sharing this very informative video on Water Belly (a hen topic which I hadn't ever heard of 'til now). Bless and r.i.p. sweet little Calypso 💛

[@realsimplemama]

Thank you - yes it’s super weird and I went years without ever hearing about it! I’m still learning about other conditions too. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@kathrynmcduffie8264]

I have a Very young chick that is presenting with the same symptoms. I've been told that they're about 3 weeks old now & I thought it was pastie butt until I noticed no feathers under her belly, & again today I thought it was PB again. That's when I really realized what it seems to be, I really hope that she can grow & it not be that because I really do not want to have to put her down 😢

[@realsimplemama]

Oh no! I’m so sorry. Yes good luck to you guys. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@traciwolaver5611]

CALI is still really young. My Big Mamma, is going on 12

[@paulwitmer7138]

I'm sorry for your loss. I think it's never wrong to prevent suffering. Would like to know more about successful draining. It's a good tip to keep them from a fatty a diet. Best to adhere to the scientific formula sit out by the feed manufacturer. Thanks for caring and sharing. It would be great if everybody could get there dying chicken to the vet for prompt euthanasia But that's our rarely prompt. I guess a shotgun Would be a good choice Unless you live in a city.

[@realsimplemama]

Yes that’s a beautiful line and I totally agree - it’s never wrong to prevent suffering. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@mjostout]

I’m so sorry.

[@theproperty541]

From one chicken mama to another…I am very sorry.

[@anneritschel2414]

I have water belly girls, one of them, Peppa, was two times drained and she got medicine. Now its back. i know that the reason is an inflammation. So i gave her Oregano since friday. Now we have Tuesday and her belly is getting more softer every day. Oregano is a natural antibiotika so it is perfect against inflammation.

[@alaskatundrakid]

I understand how you feel. I love my chickens and as of a few days ago lost my last hen from the original group I bought some years ago. It does hurt when you love your animals. She followed me everywhere in the yard. I still miss her.

[@realsimplemama]

Oh no I’m so sorry. I have no more from my original girls seven years ago and we will never forget them! ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@jms9057]

This happens in humans in end stage liver failure. My late husband had to have several liters of fluid drained from his abdomen weekly, toward the end.

[@realsimplemama]

Oh my goodness. I am so sorry about that, that sounds terrible. Thank you for sharing and teaching us. ❤️

[@sloanehodge6065]

I experienced this also. One of my girls, she was 6 years old started having a swollen body, I too had never seen this, she had ascites. I just kept her as comfortable as possible and she eventually passed.

[@realsimplemama]

I’m so sorry. Calypso was almost six, now that I think about it. It always makes us feel so bad - we love our animals and do the best we can, but sometimes these things happen anyway. ✌🏼❤️🐓

[@lindsaym2547]

Thank you for sharing this even though it was hard 😔I believe my chicken has this and I thought she was egg bound as well but it's been over 3 days and I felt her belly today and yes it feels like a water balloon. Again,,,,thank you 💔

[@realsimplemama]

Oh no I’m so sorry. I hope you’re able to get her some relief. It’s a really crappy condition. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@goldeneyes2214]

Currently going through this….my sweet Amethyst…original hen ( wedding gift) I’ve done all I can. It breaks my heart. Like you I had never experienced water belly.

[@realsimplemama]

I’m so sorry. I know people have had luck draining it as needed. My girl actually passed away eventually but it was from something else. I’m here for you. ✌🏻❤️🐓

[@cheryldahl9192]

I have had chickens for 40+ years and I've never heard of this either. I took a break from having chickens and 2 years ago I got some for the first time in about 5 years. Now she has this issue. :(

[@realsimplemama]

Oh no I’m so sorry. ✌🏻❤️🐓