I hear an occcasional sneeze from my flock-is this normal?

[mountainchick5]

Every day I hear an occasional sneeze from my flock. It's not always the same chicken. Is this normal? Do chickens sneeze like people or is this a sign of something else?
I have a Golden Comet and Barred Rock 4wks old
1 Welsummer, 1 Buff Orpington, 1 Barred Rock, 3 partridge cochins, 2black cochins, 1 polish all 6 wks
all are together
they are all healthy and show no signs of sickness otherwise
they all have clear eyes and no signs of runny noses
eat and drink well
poops are normal
active during the day, with occasional naps
sleep well at night
I read something about dry air and maybe needing more humidity?
We're in the mountains and it is really dry here, could that be it?

 

[sammi]

it's possible..

could also be from dusts, dander, etc..
what bedding are you using?
is the feed you use kind of dusty?
make sure nostrils are clear..
some people like to use a little Vetrx..(similar to Vicks)
wouldn't hurt to give some etra protein and 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in one gallon of drinking water for a day ..once or twice a week.

sometimes a product called Oxine can help..

here's some info..

http://www.shagbarkbantams.com/oxine.htm


also available at:

http://www.firststatevetsupply.com/store/

click natural in right side bar..

keep check on eyes, (mucus/swelling)..and wheezing
change in droppings, appetite and behavior, or more symptoms.

 

[mountainchick5]

I am using pine shavings-have been from the beginning
The feed I am using is Purina medicated chick starter-crumbles
I notice when they spill their water or get their bedding wet and it mixes with thier food they go to town eating the mush-is this OK?
I will keep a vigilant eye on their eyes, as well as any changes in anything else.
Thank you for the links!

 

[threehorses]

Then eating their bedding is not good, no. You can put down a thing of rubbery shelf lining (the kind that has holes) underneath your feeder to keep the shavings out of the feed but allow stuff to drain, etc.

Otherwise, I'd concur with sammi.