Chickens sneeze during feeding...

[Leallen]

I wasnt sure what thread to post this un der...but we have been noticing our chickens sneezing, which worried me at first, but my husband pointed out that they only do this when we feed them. I started paying closer attention and sure enough, as I'm working outside during the day I never notice it, but the minute we put their feed out and they start eating, our hens start sneezing. (We usually free range some during the day and then provide some feed in the evenings) What could be the cause of this? The feed? We use layer crumbles available from tractor supply...I believe the brand is purina...has anyone else had this happen with hens? And what should we do about it? they are still very active, eating and drinking and laying normally, no other obvious signs of illness...

 

[Chicks n Pipes]

I don't think it is caused by an illness. My hens will eat so fast that the food gets in their nostrils. I also feed mine crumbles and the dust may have something to do with it. They sound like they are content and healthy, just excited eaters.

 

[aart]

(We usually free range some during the day and then provide some feed in the evenings)

If they don't have feed available all day(which they should),
they may gorge on the feed in the evening,
increasing the chance for aspiration.