Light comb, lethargic

[Trixe123]

24 week old BR who has started laying. Bloody diarrhea yesterday, so started on corid immediately. Today comb is light and getting lighter, she is starting to become lethargic. She is still drinking. First chicken flock so not sure what todo. Worried we are going to lose her. Suggestions?

 

[azygous]

She very likely has a secondary infection in her intestines, and yes, she could easily die from it. The infection is called necrotic enteritis and is caused by bacteria colonizing the inflamed intestinal lining from the action of the coccidia.

An antibiotic in conjunction with the Corid is necessary to save her. This is the best one to use in this application https://www.revivalanimal.com/product/fish-sulfa-forte?sku=22156-174 but amoxicillin or penicillin will do.

 

[Eggcessive]

You may get Corid (amprollium) from your local feed store in the cattle medicines in liquid or powder form. Add 2 tsp or 10 ml of the liquid, or 1.5 tsp of the powder per gallon of water for 5-7 days. That is the treatment for coccidiosis. It is safe to treat all birds with Corid, but I would only treat the sick bird with amoxicillin if you get that.

 

[Trixe123]

Thank you all for the help! The corid seems to be helping and it seems she has turned a corner. We will keep watching her and just wait and hope!

 

[Eggcessive]

You can also give her 0.1 ml per pound (or a few drops) of the undiluted Corid liquid twice a day for a few days just to jumpstart her treatment. That is in addition to the treated water.

 

[Folly's place]

Also check her over at night with a flashlight, looking for mites or lice. Either can cause fatal anemia, and she doesn't need to have external parasites too!
Mary