can fireworks cause heart attack?

[janetk]

I put my chickens to bed last nite. All was well. Then this morning, one of my 3 year old hens lay dead. She showed no signs of illness. Could the fireworks have scared her so much she had a heart attack? That's the only answer i can come up with.

 

[chickengirl9]

I think that is possible. Fireworks freak out dogs, why not chickens? I'm only 14 though so what do I know.

 

[usschicago1]

You could have spooked them and they could have jumped off the roost and broken there neck (happened to me) or something similar. As for a heart attack, i doubt it.

 

[kathyinmo]

I do not know the answer to your question, but I am very sorry for your loss.

 

[DragonEggs]

YES fireworks WILL drop your chicken DEAD. I was listening to the chicken whisperer's radio show on Thursday when he warned everyone of this. Lucky it's been raining and people haven't been able to fire off any fireworks. I gave my flock ears of fresh corn earlier before the rain while it was still light out to keep them happy and distrated from the noise.

 

[chickengirl9]

Now i'll just have to hope no one shoots off fireworks so i don't lose any of my girls. I'm sorry you lost a hen.

 

[Chickengal505]

Hmmmm Poor chickie...

 

[fiberart57]

I'm sorry for your loss. Fireworks are most definitely NOT my favorite thing. They terrify my dog and cats and I was worried about my hens as well.

Last night I was outside frequently, reassuring the girls about the noise. They seemed to be handling it (my neighbors' grandkids were setting them off in the yard right next door) fairly well but were hiding out in the deep brush of the garden. The one I was most worried about was the caged Australorpe (her monthly broody time) but while she was in alert position, she also did well.

But I have heard of chickens who have died due to the stress of an unexpected loud noise. Perhaps since here in Colorado they've been setting off fireworks for the past week (and they'll continue for another), the noise wasn't unexpected.

Mary