Marek's? Thoughts?

[frobergs2]

Just today I noticed that my 8 week old Ameraucana pullet started looking slightly off balance a couple times. This is the first day I have noticed it, I sat and watched her for a while and saw a few wobbles, nothing major though. She appears to be eating, drinking, running around free-ranging earlier today when I was home. She has always been low in the pecking order, not as adventurous or dominant as some of the others. The 8 pullets have been together for 7 weeks now, none vaccinated that I know of (4 from tractor supply, 4 from local breeder), all housed together in their 4x4 temp coop while the big one is getting finished up. This is my first group of chickens ever on the property. They have ACV in their water, garlic in their food, we're fed medicated starter feed up until 9 weeks. I checked her feet for any cuts, bumblefoot, etc - nothing. I separated her from the rest tonight, so I can check out her poop in the AM.

My question is - what do you think the chance of it being Marek's is, if all 8 have been together for 7 weeks now? I'm hoping it's more ear infection related...going to examine her better in the morning (maybe start antibiotics?). Any suggestions/thoughts?

Thanks in advance guys!

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

You might consider coccidiosis as a possibility given her age. Any diarrhea?

 

[Eggcessive]

I agree with ChickensAreSweet in considering coccidiosis. Look for lethargy, huddling or standing puffed up, poor appetite, ruffled feather, and diarrhea sometimes with blood (depends on the strain.) Corid (amprollium) treats it safely, and even with medicated feed they can get it.. Mareks can be a concern if you notice any leg paralysis.