8 wk chicks dying from mareks

[Jamesthesilkie]

@Jamesthesilkie #1 you don’t know what your cause is. If you are so concerned get a necropsy done so you know for a fact what the problem is. Once you know only at that point can you come up with a plan. Nothing else really to say everything else is just speculation. Good luck.

I emailed the state vet and asked, hopefully with all this commotion about the virus they can still help. Thanks all

 

[EggSighted4Life]

My other chickens came from Craigslist, I got them in 3 different batches so 3 different flocks. I quarantined for 2 weeks after each flock.

Ah, very sorry!

This will be the last time you do that (I hope)

Since it takes at least 3 weeks (or longer) after exposure for symptoms of Marek's to present.. that quarantine time was in vane unfortunately, at least in reagards to Marek's. We ALL do our best until we learn something new. Great resource with accurate information regarding MDV..
Marek's Virus FAQ

They all live in the same coop. I've separated the sick one. Looks like she's dying

Including during their quarantine, your areas are int he same coop?

Suggested for future thought.. feed everyone the starter, or grower, or all flock/flock raiser... and provide oyster shell on the side for active layers.

So sorry... she is getting worse. The open mouth breathing is a symptom of organ failure... possibly from not eating if there was a crop issue but empty is not a usual indicator in that direction, maybe a very viral-ant form of Marek's (I haven't seen it), maybe coccidiosis led to dehydration/starvation due to intestinal necrosis. Early symptoms may have been missed, I have especially hard time seeing some things in larger crowds? Too many unknowns... Are you gonna be able to look into getting a necropsy done if she passes? It would be great to rule anything out so you might know how to respond best for the rest of your flock... If I had a confirmation of something like Marek's in my flock... I manage by culling IMMEDIATELY anyone who displays any symptom!

Even IF other flock mates were already exposed I still consider shedding of more dander or active virus is still MORE exposure. It's a hard line to draw for some. But after investing blood, sweat, tears, funds and so much more... protecting the good of the flock is more important than trying to save EVERY animal. Not truly cold hearted, but to a large degree I am a believer in survival of the fittest (for breeding purposes, not directed at pets)... once all needs have been met... after that I don't want genetic weakness in my stock. Every one has reasons they do what they do. We all have different goals and set ups, etc.

If you want a last ditch effort to save her... since her crop was empty (I think since you couldn't find it) you might try tube feeding to get some nutrients/energy/hydration on board...
(6) Step-by-Step Tube Feeding Guide

Double check vent isn't blocked by built up poo or something.

Your best aid at this point will truly be a necropsy. Free or affordable for many back yard keepers but varies according to state. They are able to test for so many more things than a home necropsy. Please if you are able to get one, share the results with us to help us hone our understanding and awareness and hopefully help others.

 

[RoosterML]

I emailed the state vet and asked, hopefully with all this commotion about the virus they can still help. Thanks all

Still not good enough. A necropsy is needed to know for sure. State vet won’t tell you anything.

 

[Jamesthesilkie]

Still not good enough. A necropsy is needed to know for sure. State vet won’t tell you anything.

I mean I asked them about their necropsies

 

[RoosterML]

I mean I asked them about their necropsies

Ok, do you have a local university nearby? For example I took my rooster to UCONN

 

[Eggcessive]

It is best to call the state vet during their work day and get details. I was very pleased speaking with our state vet pathologist to get details. Some state lets you deliver the body in person, but some states like mine want to send the necropsy results to your local vet, I suppose, because they can answer questions. Some states are inexpensive, around $20-25, and they may charge for extra testing. Some are expensive though. Some will email you a shipping label for overnight Fedex or UPS shipping ( the only way you should ship, to arrive M-F.)

 

[Jamesthesilkie]

Omg y'all. I accidentally emailed a North Dakota state vet not North Carolina. Shows how stressed I am. Lol. Will call tomorrow instead of email

 

[EggSighted4Life]

Omg y'all. I accidentally emailed a North Dakota state vet not North Carolina. Shows how stressed I am. Lol. Will call tomorrow instead of email

North Carolina Rollins Diagnostic Laboratory North Carolina Department of Agriculture 2101 Blue Ridge Rd Raleigh, North Carolina 27607-6432 Phone: 919-733-3986 ASF, CSF, FMD, IAV-A, IAV-S, ND, PRV

At least you caught it. How's it going today?

 

[keeper 1960]

is there any problem giving layer feed to chicks?

 

[Eggcessive]

is there any problem giving layer feed to chicks?

Yes, there is a problem. Layer feed has 4 times as much calcium as chick feed or an all flock feed, such as Flock Raiser. Calcium given to young chicks can cause kidney damage and possibly gout. If you look for Purina Flock Raiser feed, you can feed that to your chicks and layers as well as roosters without any problem. Just remember to put out some crushed oyster shell (from a feed store) for any laying hens to take as they need for extra calcium.