neurological issues

When a Rooster Takes a Hit: Neurological Worries After a Predator Attack

Oh, that poor little rooster, what a brave, wobbly warrior. Getting attacked at 4 AM while defending his hen is bad enough, but watching him stumble backward like some kind of fowl reverse gear must be heartbreaking. The puncture behind his ear is definitely suspicious for neurological damage; those nerves are right there, and a bite that close to the brain can mess with balance and coordination in a serious way. Your plan to keep him comfortable in that laundry basket and hand-feed him is spot-on for now. If you want some extra hope, check out our story about a hen who bounced back from a scary collapse, "My roo collapsed and I thought I lost him: now I need your cluck-tastic advice.