My flock chicken have impacted crop and some have sour crop

[GooseBee]

I just got done with ammonia problem but know I have other problem with my chickens. Some are having hard time breathing also crops are hard . Well only few have
crops that is squishy/soft and there gurgling noise to crop also smelly. Looks like some have impacted crops and others have sour crop. I know take away there food for 24 hours and only have water in the coop. Also add apple cider vinegars to water also massage there crop downwards. Also slowly introduce food to them after ther periods of not having food. Anything should I do or add to there water to help.

 

[Debbie292d]

Hi, it sounds like you're doing the right things for them. As far as what to add to their water, I'd try probiotics as especially for those that may have sour crops, that should help them. They make powders for their water, granuals for their feed, or Greek yogurt is good too. Probiotics are important to follow up with after an antibiotic too, assuming they may have just been on one.

Here are two of the best articles about crop issues, written by our expert members. Hopefully one or both will help you.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...w-to-know-which-one-youre-dealing-with.73607/

https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...ntion-and-treatments-of-crop-disorders.67194/

 

[GooseBee]

It got better, going to slowly introduce food. Also I haven’t check 3 three of chickens yet because there fast runners and they got out this morning.

 

[StinkyAcres]

Firstly, a somewhat hard crop isn't always cause for concern. It can mean they've just eaten a lot. Only when it doesn't completely empty overnight there could be an issue. Have you checked their crops early in the morning?

Secondly, do your chickens have access to a separate container of poultry grit (crushed granite) at all times?

And lastly, what bedding have you been using in your chickens' quarters?

 

[StinkyAcres]

If you suspect sour crop, you need to get miconazole cream (yes, the kind for women; 2% and 4% are both fine). Give them half an inch of the cream orally twice a day for 7 days. Do not stop treatment before the full 7 days are completed.