Availability of Blackhead treatment meds?

[MrsGray1211]

I have a nearly two year old (11/7/23) female BBW who has become ill. I noticed this morning she was lethargic, ruffled feathers, head tucked into feathers and slightly stumbling. I offered her some black soldier fly larvae and she ate just a bit but was not very interested. I do not see signs of discolored droppings in her. I'm guessing she may be in the early stages of Blackhead since we have four turkeys who free range with our chickens, but are housed separately. I separated her right away into her own coop for quarantine.
I read that one user has had luck with turkeys recovering from Blackhead if they begin treatment immediately, but I do not have any of the meds used for Blackhead.
Are these things available OTC or will I need to call a vet?
TIA for any advice or if anyone has suggestions on what else might be ailing my little Tiki Turkey.

 

[MamaPoult]

So sorry you're dealing with turkey illness. I hope she's okay! I thankfully don't have much experience with blackhead but I can tag someone who might be able help. They've helped me with all my turkey scares. I hope you get the answers you're looking for!!

@R2elk

 

[R2elk]

I have a nearly two year old (11/7/23) female BBW who has become ill. I noticed this morning she was lethargic, ruffled feathers, head tucked into feathers and slightly stumbling. I offered her some black soldier fly larvae and she ate just a bit but was not very interested. I do not see signs of discolored droppings in her. I'm guessing she may be in the early stages of Blackhead since we have four turkeys who free range with our chickens, but are housed separately. I separated her right away into her own coop for quarantine.
I read that one user has had luck with turkeys recovering from Blackhead if they begin treatment immediately, but I do not have any of the meds used for Blackhead.
Are these things available OTC or will I need to call a vet?
TIA for any advice or if anyone has suggestions on what else might be ailing my little Tiki Turkey.

@casportpony

An indication of blackhead is yellow excrement.

You did not report any such findings. The lethargy and other symptoms and age could be an indication of cocciciosis which can be treated with Corid.

 

[MrsGray1211]

Thank you @R2elk for the direction. You are correct, her droppings look completely normal. No blood, no yellow tint, just solid brown with white like normal.

I will start Corid right away.

Is it possible for turkeys to run a fever? I don’t know why but I just have this feeling that she has a fever.

 

[R2elk]

Is it possible for turkeys to run a fever? I don’t know why but I just have this feeling that she has a fever.

A turkey with a normal body temperature will feel warmer to you since their normal bdoy temperature is "Average body temperature: Approximately
106°F (41.1°C)"

 

[MrsGray1211]

Okay, that makes sense.

Can turkeys get a cold? I just went to dose her with Corid and as I was holding her I noticed she now has a rattle when she breathes. She doesn’t appear to be struggling to breathe or coughing, I can just hear a rattle. I remembered that about 2 weeks ago, my heritage Tom sounded hoarse when he gobbled and was what I would call coughing a bit. But no other symptoms otherwise. Could he have had a cold that he passed to her?

I’m sorry for all the questions, we do not have a vet nearby who will treat turkeys. I would have to drive 4 hours away and I do not have anyone who can tend to the ranch while we’re away so I’m just doing the best I can on my own- with everyone here’s help

 

[R2elk]

Okay, that makes sense.

Can turkeys get a cold? I just went to dose her with Corid and as I was holding her I noticed she now has a rattle when she breathes. She doesn’t appear to be struggling to breathe or coughing, I can just hear a rattle. I remembered that about 2 weeks ago, my heritage Tom sounded hoarse when he gobbled and was what I would call coughing a bit. But no other symptoms otherwise. Could he have had a cold that he passed to her?

I’m sorry for all the questions, we do not have a vet nearby who will treat turkeys. I would have to drive 4 hours away and I do not have anyone who can tend to the ranch while we’re away so I’m just doing the best I can on my own- with everyone here’s help

Turkeys can get sinus infections.

@casportpony can tell you how to treat them.