Black Watery Poop

[Chicken Judy]

Apparently one of my RIR's has black, watery poop. Whats up? Do I need to worm the flock? I have some from TSC but have never wormed the girls. They have been laying since Dec.

 

[Eggcessive]

Are there any other symptoms? Does she have it consistently each time, or does it vary? Most chickens have worms, and worming them twice a year (or more if in a warm humid environment) with SafeGuard Goat Wormer or Valbazen would probably be wise. You could also take a good sample of droppings (both normal and cecal) into your vet to get it tested for worms, cocci, and bacteria.

 

[casportpony]

Can you post a picture of it? You might want to try placing it on a white paper towel to see if you can see or smell any blood in it.

-Kathy

 

[Chicken Judy]

No other symptoms. They all seem to be fine. I was just at my vet yesterday for dogs annual check up. I think someone in the practice may work on poultry. I have wizen (sp) and was thinking on doing it soon. It doesn't seem to be all the time but I'll keep a close eye on them. Since all my girls look alike, its impossible to tell which of the 8 it may be. I did take a picture of it. Not very computer savvy but maybe I can get some help. Thanks everyone for the advise.

 

[Eggcessive]

Wazine will only treat for roundworms, but the Valbazen or SafeGuard goat wormer will treat for all worms. Enteritis, a bacterial intestinal disease can cause dark brown droppings, but she would probably appear sick. Many vets will do a fecal float if your just bring in fresh droppings. There can be false negatives on fecal floats, but probably worth doing in case of having a more problem worm. Dosages on the 2 wormers above:
Valbazen 1/10th ml per pound once by mouth for each chicken, and repeat in 10 days.
SafeGuard liquid goat wormer (or equine paste) give 1/4 ml per pound daily by mouth for each chicken for 5 days in a row.

 

[Chicken Judy]

I'll get some fresh droppings tomorrow and run to the vet. Can I get Valbezn at Tractor Supply?

 

[Eggcessive]

Some feed stores such as Southern States co-op and Rural King sell it here, but my TSC does not. TSC will have SafeGuard liquid goat wormer and the equine paste. Valbazen is easily found online.