Ascites in our chickens

[cleanteeth]

Hello!
I have just a quick question. WE have figured out that our flock may be in danger of Ascites. We have lost 4 of 20 so far. When we cleaned the last one it had about 1/8 cup of light yellow watery fluid that gushed out. From all the symptoms they have shown we have decided probably Ascites. Here's the question...They are all 5 weeks old. If we butcher them now are they still safe to eat if tehy have AScites?? It looks gross when we clean them but the meat looks fine. Since it isn't a contagious disease but rather basically a heart issue, are they ok to eat?? Sound gross, but we were just wondering. Thanks for your help!

 

[Glenda L Heywood]

well you need to have the fluid tested by a vet
and ask him that
also go on line at google.com and read what they say about asitities
personally I would not eat them but I am not you
the discolored fluid would tip me off to something is wrong
take one to a vet and have them test it

 

[cassie]

You would be better off sending your chickens to a lab that tests chickens than a vet. Most vets don't know much about poultry. Your agricultural extension office out to be able to point you to a lab. Many times the service is free.

 

[cleanteeth]

Thank you!