Newbie with Coughing Sneezing hens

[jlahoward]

At least 1 of my 4 one-year old laying hens Georgia is coughing or sneezing (not sure which it is - sounds like a loud honk with her beak open). Started about 2 weeks ago and is getting more frequent. At least one other hen may be sneezing too but not nearly as often as the first. No obvious mucus, drainage, odor or other symptoms. She is active running around the yard, eating well, laying well, and bossing other hens around, generally doing her thing. Eyes are clear and if anything, her comb looks brighter red than usual. I have not treated anything medicinally, hoping it might clear on its own. But I am getting concerned with the increasing frequency.

She had an encounter with a hawk (I think) about 3-4 weeks ago, losing several flight feathers but no injuries. We have also had an unusual amount of rain lately, and crazy on/off heat and cool. No new bedding added recently and I clean the coop/run at least daily. They free range much of the day.

I am starting with ACV water and some yogurt with feed. I am not anxious to treat with antibiotics unless absolutely necessary. But on the other hand, I don't know what else to do. We are a small backyard flock without a lot of options to separate her from the group. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated! Thank you!!

 

[Fancychooklady]

The hawk attack may have triggered this. My avian vet told me that upper respitory problems are more often that not stress related. The acv and yoghurt are a good start, but I would be getting some antibiotics for your first aid kit , just in case.