Ear Infection?

chkn said:

Get some antibiotics going asap. There are some parasites that get into ears so you might want to think about that. In either case it sounds like an infection going on.

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RedBarnFarms said:

First things first. I would isolate her from the rest of the flock.

I did a search on chicken ear infections and this is what I found.


Disturbances of the balance system in the inner ear may be caused by either infection, an encounter with environmental toxins or food deficiency. Paramyxo virus may cause ear infection in chickens and other birds, and may also cause the chicken to turn its head in an abnormal manner. Newcastle Disease, also caused by paramyxo virus, is said to cause abnormal head movements and these are sometimes attributed to the central nervous system. Although antibiotics cannot cure the virus, antibiotics may be given to treat concurrent illnesses in birds with viral infections.
Types
Otitis externa, or outer ear infection, may be marked by a chicken moving its head across woody plants and outcroppings, with a visible fluid coming from the ear. Infections with this type of draining ear has been known to be caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Middle ear infection, with symptoms of abnormal movement of the head, has been reported to be caused by Pasteurella multocida. The American Poultry Association recommends sulfa drugs to treat Pastuerella infections.
Significance
Giving antibiotics to poultry and other livestock has engendered an important debate in the medical community. Physicians are concerned that overmedication of livestock in order to keep them healthy for commercial slaughter, has given rise to the evolution of antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria, which can then pose as severe health risk to humans.

As far as the mites go, and other little beasties as well, we use Borax. You can get it in the laundry isle of most supermarkets. The boric acid in borax kills bugs by stripping off the waxy coating from their boddies, it also destroys the outside of the eggs, and it's completley non-toxic to warmblooded animals. I don't think it's effects are strong enough to fix an infestation, but as a preventitive, or at the first sign of lice, mites, etc. it is very effective, just sprinkle it all over the hen house, including in the nesting boxes. I also put some in a little pile for them to bathe in, they are attracted to the white color, and just love it, lol.
Source(s):


http://www.ehow.com/about_5374809_c...ce=yahoo&utm_medium=ssp&utm_campaign=yssp_art

The infection can be either viral of bacterial in nature. There is also a possibility of eat mites. Look at her ear and head very closely for signs.

Editing to add:

Does the pullets head,eyes, etc seem swollen? Is there a foul odor coming from the head, ear areas? A few close up images might help too if you can take them.


Sorry I cannot help you more. I'm sure someone with more knowledge will chime in soon.

As far as buying antibiotics goes check with your local Tractor Supply Company, many hatcheries carry medicines too. Run a internet search will provide many sources of medications for fowl. You might also be able to consult with your local pharmacy.

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