2 chicks closed eyes

[jennibachbach83]

I recently got a group of chicks and noticed my 2 polish chicks gaping for air and scratch at their eye which was closed. Thought at first gape worm, but thinking more an irritant or respiratory infection. They are a little better now and still eat and walk around, but once in a while one would sneeze. I took photos of them as I did a check up and eyes are more open now, no discharge. Any idea what it might be and what help?

 

[azygous]

It does sound like a respiratory infection. Sometimes these clear up on their own, sometimes you need to use an antibiotic.

If these chicks are lethargic, loss of appetite, swollen faces, I would treat with Tylosin. If the chicks are active, good appetites, no other symptoms other than irritated eyes, I would flush the eyes with saline, and use an eye antibiotic such as Terramycin or Neosporin in the eyes twice a day until they clear up.

If you select the second option, I suggest strongly you get some Tylosin to have on hand if the chicks' symptoms worsen. Also, once a chicken has had a respiratory infection, they may get it again when under stress. Tylan or Tylosin - good to keep on hand.

 

[jennibachbach83]

Where can I get tylosin?

 

[azygous]

https://www.jedds.com/shop/tylan-soluble-100-g/

 

[jennibachbach83]

They are out of stock and most other sites say I need a vet prescription. How do you get by that?

 

[azygous]

Jedd's is the only place I know you can get it without a prescription. If you live in the city, find a pigeon supply and call them. They may have it without a prescription. The other alternative is to convince a vet to write one for you.

This antibiotic issue is a tough one. When you find a place that sells it, we get enough to have on hand for a good while. That goes for other antibiotics.

Another alternative is to use an antibiotic from another source that requires no prescription. This one is a broad spectrum antibiotic and should work okay. https://www.kvsupply.com/item/aqua-mox-250mg-capsules-100-count/P06184/

 

[azygous]

TSC has Tylan 50. You can order it online and pick it up at the store. It's an injectible, but you can give it orally as well. https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/search/tylan 50?