Coughing Hen

[coocooforcocoapuffs]

I have a Ameracauna hen that is about 11 months old that is coughing and losing feathers around her neck.

I can't find any illness that has both sx, so I'm wondering if there are two things going on - some molting and a respiratory illness?

I'm at work, but when I get home I'll take a closer look and make sure there aren't any other sx. She's been losing feathers for a week or so, but the cough is new today.

Any help is gratefully accepted! Thank you!

Tara

 

[sammi]

check the droppings ..(color and consistency)

watch her and see if she is pulling the feathers out..or are being pulled by others.

observe closely for any symptoms..
check crop to make sure it is emptying..
check mouth and throat for any whitish plaque, or whitish or yellowy sores, anything red in throat (gape worm),..any sour odor...
or any obstruction (such as a feather) that could be making her cough, or any "dot" type sores..(could be mites)..anything unusual.
is she shaking her head?
has the coop been cleaned recently?
are there feathers around to indicate molt?
is she laying?
has she been wormed?

check closely for mites/lice.
mites are sometimes easier to see at night with a flashlight.
have they been treated for mites/lice?