I've been a member here for a long time. I didn't know this thread existed. Being a pedigreed French Cajun, I love my people. Please forgive me for writing sooo much here. It's been like being a kid in a candy store! Y'all have my word I will refrain from writing so much.
But, I do have 1 more question for now and, I'll shut up for a good long while. I will probably start hatching some eggs in about a week. You guys are always talking about supplements and meds you give your birds. Could y'all please list them and what the meds are used to treat? I would like to have some of them on hand if a problem arises. Which ones would be the most important to buy first?
Thanks in advance! Now I'll shut up for a few pages at least.
No need to shut up? I love having folks to visit with.
Everyone prefers different things, so I'll tell you the things I keep on hand that work for me:
Sav-a-chick electrolytes
Sav-a-chick probiotics
- these are both supplements that can be found at
TSC and other feed stores. One pack mixes into a gallon of water, and they can be used together. I keep these on hand at all times. I use them for newly hatched chicks until they leave the brooder, and for any chicken that has been sick or needs a "boost."
Corid powder
- this is found in the cattle section and is used to treat coccidia. I think amprolium is the active ingredient. Also good to have on hand, just in case. If I see droopy wings, ruffled feathers, and lethargy then I treat for coccidia. Also bloody poops, but that last the "big" sign that there's a problem. Treatment is 1.5 teaspoons for 1 gallon for five days (severe outbreak dose). There are also moderate outbreak and preventative doses that I can't remember because I don't use them. Corid kills the gut flora, both good and bad, and should be followed with the probiotics water.
Tylan 50
- this is an antibiotic that's mostly used for respiratory infections. I use it most often for complications from fowl pox, which I get every year. I use an oral dose by weight and only when I think the chicken can't be saved without it.
Chicken first aid kit:
-VetRX: an herbal liquid that can go in and around the beak. Can relieve respiratory symptoms. It's like Vicks vaporub for chickens, herbal and soothing.
-blu kote: this is a spray that stains the skin (and all your clothes) a lovely indigo blue.
It's antibacterial, anti fungal, and I think antibiotic. I've used it for everything from dog attacks to bald spots from a bad molt. It keeps the flock from picking at bare skin or pin feathers.
Saline wound spray, triple antibiotic ointment (without pain killers), iodine or betadine, sterile gloves, cotton swabs, vet wrap, clean syringes and aquarium air hose (for tubing food/fluids to sick birds) extra thermometers, extra heat lamps (sick/injured birds heal faster when warm), and I think that's it for mine.
Hope this helps.
