Cat Attack

chook blogger · **Joined:** Mon Nov 08, 2010 6:02 pm **Posts:** 3

I hope you can offer some advice please. I have a light Sussex pullet that was attacked by the neighbours cat and in the attack her eye has been damaged to what looks beyond repair it has now stopped bleeding but the outer film has gone white and she cannot see out of that eye. Will she need veterinary care or can I nurse her at home? What can I give her to stop infection? I hope you can assist me please

parvo · **Joined:** Sat Jan 02, 2010 7:39 pm **Posts:** 735

Hi Chook Blogger,

Eye injuries can be very painful as you could imagine.

Cat bite wounds can become easily infected and can become septic.

Of course the ideal situation is to have your bird checked out by a vet who can best assess the seriousness of the injuries and advise you on what treatments are necessary eg antibiotics, pain relief, wound treatment and whether the eye needs to be removed.

Having said this many chickens are very good at dealing with what appear to be serious injuries. You can bathe superficial wounds with dilute betadine, flush the eye with salty water. As for antibiotics, the over the counter types are of limited effectiveness but I'd try one containing tetracycline. If the bird appears stressed or too quiet provide warmth, quiet & tempt her with her favourite foods. You may have to syringe feed or force feed her if she is not eating or drinking. There are several electrolyte solutions which are good starting points eg Lectade, Vytrate or Polyaid Plus.

Watch that the eye doesn't start producing pus- this may mean you will need to visit a vet. (Try to find one in your area with experience in chickens)

Good luck

Parvo

chook blogger · **Joined:** Mon Nov 08, 2010 6:02 pm **Posts:** 3

I washed out the eye this morning after reading your reply and she doesn't seem to be in any obvious pain and she has started to eat today so I am now a little more confidant than yesterday. Thank you so much for your advice it is very helpful

parvo · **Joined:** Sat Jan 02, 2010 7:39 pm **Posts:** 735

No problems- glad to help. :-D

It's good that her eye doesn't appear sore & that she's resumed eating- always a good sign. Just keep an eye on any other wounds for infection.

chook blogger · **Joined:** Mon Nov 08, 2010 6:02 pm **Posts:** 3

I will and thanks again. She is a little better this morning and the film on her eye is not as white as yesterday and less discharge than yesterday also, maybe she may get some vision back?

parvo · **Joined:** Sat Jan 02, 2010 7:39 pm **Posts:** 735

With a bit of luck....fingers crossed.

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