A-Z of chicken diseases

[BDutch]

I know, but i cant change the title of the thread. This is more diseases, infections, conditions etc.

Of course!

In my opinion you should emphasise loudly if something with 'abnormal behavior' or a ‘strange appearance' is natural. Like moulting or other things that are sometimes mistaken for illness.

 

[OrpingtonManiac]

In my opinion you should emphasise loudly if something with 'abnormal behavior' or a ‘strange appearance' is natural. Like moulting or other things that are sometimes mistaken for illness.

i'll say that in the future.

 

[OrpingtonManiac]

43. Candidiasis
Often referred to as sour crop, this is an infection of the crop caused by candida. These species are a normal part of the microflora of a chicken. Certain factors, such as malnutrition or stress, can predispose chickens to candidiasis.

Symptoms:
Delayed crop emptying; whiteish lesions inside mouth; sour odor from mouth; depression; loss of appetite; weight loss; watery diarrhoea.

Treatment:
In mild/early cases, a change in diet and natural remedies, for example apple cider vinegar, are all that is needed. In severe cases, the crop should be emptied and flushed by a veterinarian. An anti-fungal medicine may be prescribed.

Prevention:
Feed a balanced diet
Do not feed moldy feed
Avoid using excessive amounts of antibiotics
Avoid using antibiotics for a prolonged period of time
Administer apple cider vinegar to the waterers
Quarantine ill chickens until they have fully recovered

 

[OrpingtonManiac]

44. Canker
Also known as avian trichomonosis, this is an infectious disease caused by the flagellate protozoan trichomonas gallinae. Approximately 90 percent of pigeons and doves are carriers of this. Canker like sores will develop in the oral cavity and oesophagus. The lesions will continue to grow, and will eventually interfere with feeding, drinking or breathing

Transmission:
Chickens usually become infected by sharing water with these doves and pigeons. T. Gallinae remains infectious for up to 5 days in moist grain and 20 minutes to several hours in water.

Symptoms:
Yellow plaques inside the mouth; difficulty swallowing; weight loss; gasping for breath; regurgitation; listlessness

Prevention:
Don't allow wild birds access to waterers and feeders
Maintain sanitary conditions
Provide apple cider vinegar in the water
Prevent chickens having access to water sources wild birds drink from.

 

[Sally PB]

Provide apple cider vinegar in the water

Does that kill

the flagellate protozoan trichomonas gallinae.

 

[OrpingtonManiac]

Does that kill

No it will not, it is more of a prevention method. It acidifies the crop contents. T. Gallinae is less viable in acidic conditions. It will not completely cure canker

 

[OrpingtonManiac]

45. Capillariasis (thread worms)
Adult threadworms are very thin, threadlike nematodes that are around 1cm long. Different species affect different areas of the body. They are relatively uncommon, but can be deadly. In some species, Earthworms are the intermediate host.

Life cycle:
The worms live inside infected birds, where they feed and lay eggs. The eggs are transferred to the environment in the infected birds faeces, where other chickens will ingest them. The eggs then hatch and feed on the crop, oesophagus, intestines or ceca.

Symptoms:
Head flicking; loss of appetite; difficulty swallowing; weight loss; diarrhoea; anaemia; stunted growth

Prevention:
Regularly test birds for worms using fecal tests
Frequently change bedding and clean the coop area

 

[OrpingtonManiac]

46. Cataracts
This is the clouding of the eyes lens. Light can no longer get through to the retina, so the chicken can become blind. Causes of cataracts:

• Genetics
• Certain diseases: Mareks and Avian encephalomyelitis
• Nutrient deficiency: A diet lacking in antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids can predispose the chicken to cataracts.
• Prolonged exposure to High ammonia levels, and high light intensities.

Symptoms:
Cloudy eye; visible whiteness in pupil; sensitivity to light; loss of eyesight

Prevention:
Ensure chickens are getting sufficient nutrient, vitamins and minerals in their diet.

 

[Sally PB]

Prolonged exposure to High ammonia levels

Another reason to ensure good ventilation in your coop.

 

[OrpingtonManiac]

Another reason to ensure good ventilation in your coop.

Definitely!