Chickens dying!!

Ocalaman

Hatching
7 Years
Jun 24, 2012
2
0
7
I have chickens that are dying. Especially the ones that are young (hatched Feb 4 2015.) They get very lythergic, some of them drop a wing and then they will limp. After that they would just sit around till they die. I of course cull them so they don't suffer. Cox silicosis was suggested but they don't meet the symptoms I've read on the Internet. Any ideas?
 
Hey there Ocalaman I am sorry to hear that you are losing chickens.

I am definitely not an expert when it comes to what ails chickens but could it be Marek’s Disease?

There are lots of informative threads with regards to this disease which it may be worth checking out for symptoms etc.

I have not experienced it, but have read that it can cause paralysis and neurological issues, limping etc.

I hope you are able to find out what the problem is and are able to treat/recover them.
 
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Coccidiosis is usually in younger birds. It sounds like you may be experiencing Mareks. It can come into your flock from wild birds, and is contagious from bird to bird through their dander.

If your state offers a necropsy service, you can take a bird in to have it euthanized and tested. I know CA offers the service for free, but some states charge.

This thread has good information:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/39918/mareks-vaccine/0_50
 
Yes it does sound like it might be Marek's. Please do search this site as there are several threads and lots and lots of information. You should move this post to the injury and disease section. There are some members who are very knowledgeable about it who will see it there. You definitely shouldn't bring any new birds in until you know what's going on and if you have guests who also have birds, disinfect shoes etc.. USDA has information you may want to check out. There's lots on the web.

Marek's is an awful disease, and there generally is no cure. There is a vaccination given to chicks. I wish you the best and hope that it is something else that is treatable!
 
Thanks so much for all the input. After researching for the last couple days I think it is Mareks disease. After reading a lot there seems to be no cure so I'll have to live with it. Thanks again!
 

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