My Chicks seem a bit congested

[Trodore]

Hello,

I am new to chickens have have a question. I currently have 2 small flocks that are close to each other. One flock has 6 chickens at about 5 months and 3 at about 10 months. My other flock is about 3 months old with a 4 month old rooster.
I have noticed the younger ones seem to be whizzing and one or two are coughing. This morning, it looked like one of the smaller roosters were trying to crow. They are running around fine and eating like tiny horses. All my others seem fine. Should I be concerned with this?

 

[MrsBrooke]

Hahaha. "Tiny horses."

Do you find that they cough or wheeze more during or after feeding? Sometimes, the dust can get in their nares and start up a fit.

Otherwise, have you noticed any bubbly eyes, lethargy, change in poops, or any other odd behavior?

Right now, definitely keep an eye on it. If you see a bird developing a "runny nose" or bubbles in the eyes, consider taking that one to a vet to get a blood test done, so you know what you're working with. Infectious Bronchitis requires different treatment than mycoplasma.

If you can't go to the vet, you might considering putting some TerraVet-10 water soluble tetracycline in their water. You can get it from most feed stores or order it online (http://www.qcsupply.com/terra-vet-10-tetracycline-hydrochloride-soluble-powder.html). It's good stuff.

It's worth the peace of mind, though, to KNOW what you're treating for. That way, you can be the most efficient with what and how you administer.

MrsB

 

[Trodore]

Thank you Mrs Brooks,

I do notice it seems like they are inhaling their food. The rooster with them is new and I think they are bit scared. The will not even roost by him, though they lay around him. There is no other problems that I have seen. They run right to me for treats, and about eat my fingers off now that they are getting bigger. I will be sure to watch for the running nose or bubbly eyes. We just had a bit of a cold spell up here in mid Michigan so it could just be that.