Dark areas on comb and wattle

[RNPAULIE69]

My speckled Sussex pullet who is 4 1/2 months old has been sh

owing signs of getting ready to lay..squatting,darkening of comb and wattle, sitting in nest box etc.. I noticed today that parts of her comb and wattle are discolored..almost purplish black. No sores no scabs. She seems to be healthy, foraging at free range time eating well and drinking. She even laid her first egg today! Being new to chickens I am a bit concerned..any input?

 

[Akrnaf2]

It seems like Fowl Pox to me.

 

[RNPAULIE69]

Anything i can do to help support recovery?

 

[Akrnaf2]

1. Clean it with some Iodine
2.check it's throat for scabs, it could be dangerous
3. Be aware if it begins to show any infection signs, if it is it probably need some antibiotics, because the pox scab could use as an entry platform to secondary microbial infection.
4. Treat the coop area against mosquitos, they are the infecting vectors of this virus.
5. It should pass after some weeks.

 

[Akrnaf2]

And welcome to BYC!

 

[RNPAULIE69]

1. Clean it with some Iodine
2.check it's throat for scabs, it could be dangerous
3. Be aware if it begins to show any infection signs, if it is it probably need some antibiotics, because the pox scab could use as an entry platform to secondary microbial infection.
4. Treat the coop area against mosquitos, they are the infecting vectors of this virus.
5. It should pass after some weeks.

 

[RNPAULIE69]

2 questions..hiw does one person hold the chicken and look in it's mouth? Lol hubby wants nothing to do with them..i knew this when I got them. What do you recommend treating for mosquitoes with?

 

[Akrnaf2]

2 questions..hiw does one person hold the chicken and look in it's mouth? Lol hubby wants nothing to do with them..i knew this when I got them. What do you recommend treating for mosquitoes with?

It is a big problem. You can use some pesticides but you should be very VERY careful not to harm your chickens.
About the examination, put the bird on a table, cover it up with a towel, hold the head and check.