Possible chick botulism?

[hnbubz]

I think that my chicks may have botulism. I don't know how they would get it, seeing as they have only lived inside my room, which is where they were hatched. But, if they do have it, am I at risk?

 

[Highlander]

What makes you think they have botulism?

 

[hnbubz]

3 of them are getting leg paralysis, as well as the drooping eye lids when left for a second. I'm going to try epsom salt, I'm just concerned that they are hazardous in my room.

 

[RhodeIslandRedFan]

Those symptoms may also indicate Marek's Disease. Here is a link with information on Marek's. You can also search this site for more information, and see if the symptoms match those your chicks are experiencing. Good luck to you... http://www.merckvetmanual.com/mvm/index.jsp?cfile=htm/bc/203602.htm

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

When you say leg paralysis, do you mean that their legs are splayed? Here is a website that can help with splayed legs:
https://sites.google.com/a/poultrypedia.com/poultrypedia/poultry-podiatry

http://msucares.com/poultry/diseases/solutions.html
Here is a link for epsom salts if you need it...but I would honestly not give that to brand new chicks that haven't left your room. They are very young?? How old are they?

 

[hnbubz]

Some of them are becoming splayed. But it looks like the splay is caused by paralysis?

 

[seminolewind]

Are they on a slippery floor-no traction? I would give them vitamins. If they are less than 6 weeks old, I would not think Marek's, but it can happen. If they are getting medicated feed switch to non-medicated and start vitamins.

I think botulism would kill them?

Are they too warm?

How old are they?

 

[hnbubz]

they are still alive. Except for one. They are on paper towels. I'm going to get vitamins tomorrow.