Blood in poop

[Keelio]

Hi, I'm completely new to keeping chickens and I had a question about some droppings. Sometimes when I let my hen out of the coop in the morning, she poops a large pile of droppings (large compared to her droppings during the day). This is the second time there has been what looks like blood in her droppings. The first time was very very faint and it was hard to tell, but this time it's more distinct. Could someone tell me if this is normal/a cause for concern? Thanks.

 

[ChattyChickens4Life]

It's a cause for concern. I think your chicken may have coccidiosis. I would suggest doing some research on that. Best wishes.

-Chatty

 

[RodNTN]

Yes, its more than likely coccidiosis, can be treated with Corid.
Or as @theoldchick said, may be vent trauma, has happened with my chickens before.

 

[theoldchick]

Excellent photo! Get your hands on her and check her vent for trauma. Sometimes pullets will do this when they first start to lay. You can also take a fecal sample to your vet for testing.

 

[Keelio]

Thank you guys for the reply. I think she just started laying 3 weeks ago. I don't see any trauma or redness around her vent. This happened before, about 10 days ago. She is acting normal and eating/drinking fine. Perhaps I'll have to get ahold of a vet around here and see if they can do a fecal test?

 

[RodNTN]

Fecal tests are cheap, and if she isn't showing any signs of sickness there is a chance it might not be coccidiosis.

 

[Hen Pen Jem]

That poop looks nice and firm. Without a fecal float test, I would not treat. Could just be some shed intestinal lining.

Here is a link with pictures of poop, the good, bad and ugly!

http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2012/02/whats-scoop-on-chicken-poop-digestive.html

 

[Keelio]

Ok, so just to be safe I'm going to have a fecal test done. Luckily, there is one vet in my area who treats chickens and I have an appointment for an exam and fecal test for Tuesday morning. I'll keep you guys posted with the findings. Thanks for all your help so far.

 

[RodNTN]

Sounds good!

 

[RodNTN]

Btw, nice article @Hen Pen Jem