Does my hen have Mareks?

[ChickieChick11]

Hi everyone,

I just noticed that my 2-year-old Easter Egger hen has a constricted pupil. I am very concerned that she may have Mareks. I just called the feed store that we got her from 2 years ago and was sad to hear that they don’t vaccinate against Mareks. She lives in a small flock with three others and is acting normally. I’ve attached pictures of her eyes, one normal and the other weird.

Also, if the other three are vaccinated are they safe?

If it is Mareks, what should I expect? What are the next steps?

Thank you for your advice!

 

[Amer]

Looks like occular Mareks, the least dangerous. It causes blindness, but about all you can do is keep an eye on it.

 

[FlyingNunFarm]

http://www.vetdna.com/test-type/avian-bird

This lab does a blood test for Mareks. I recommend giving them a call. Answered my million and one questions.

In my research they suspect the eye changes with occular Mareks due to pressure. So another type of pressure could also cause eye changes.

For an answer one way or the other I'd get the $20 test.

 

[The_BirdNerd]

I thought my chicken had Mareks as she lost her ability to walk on one leg, but it was something else but I won’t get into that story.

I agree with occular Mareks but even if your other three chickens have been vaccinated there is still a chance they could get it, despite this being the least concerning Mareks disease. Just be wary of this chook, don’t be too surprised if things start going good or bad.

 

[ChickieChick11]

Thank you all for your fast responses! I was very concerned and anxious so it’s good to hear that it is most likely just occular, we will keep a close eye on her to watch for any new symptoms. That website looks very interesting @FlyingNunFarm, thank you for sharing!

 

[AltonaAcres]

We have an orpington hen who has always had one healthy orange eye, and the other looks like your hens eye. Dull and constricted. She is totally fine though! she is now 3 and is very healthy.

 

[FlyingNunFarm]

Thank you all for your fast responses! I was very concerned and anxious so it’s good to hear that it is most likely just occular, we will keep a close eye on her to watch for any new symptoms. That website looks very interesting @FlyingNunFarm, thank you for sharing!

The test is easy. No vet needed. A few drops of blood on some paper and you mail it in.

I do recommend calling if you have any questions. For me $20 was well worth getting answers.