Sick Salmon Faverolles

[Ajcoops]

Hi folks,

New to the forum. I picked up four Salmon Faverolles from a local breeder two weeks ago. They looked malnourished. When I put them in a cage they chased an insect across the floor like their lives depended on it and gorged themselves on chick crumble.

The alarm bells sounded in my head when I stepped over dead chicks of another breed the breeder fed to his dog! A friend and I coughed and felt itchy on the drive back.

When I got the chicks home I found worms in bloody poop in brooder box. I added a wormer for twenty four hours to their water, then a multi vitamin, only to discover they had lice and mites. I gave them a lice bath but the two chickens still alive have bony protrusions on wings and underbelly.

Does anybody know what this is? First 2 pics are of my rooster who is clinging to life. Next 2 photos are of my little girl who died this morning in my hands. Looks like she has a tumour on her neck. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance, A.J.

 

[keesmom]

If there was blood in their poop I'd treat them for coccidiosis.

 

[Ajcoops]

Thanks keesmom. I think chick crumble is medicated but I'll check in the morning. Much appreciated.

 

[keesmom]

Even if the feed is medicated it may not be enough to get rid of the coccidia. Given the poor condition you got them in I wouldn't be surprised if they have it.

I would suggest feeding them flock raiser too. I find my Faverolles do better on a higher protein feed.

 

[Ajcoops]

I was just doing some research. They are eating well but don't have any more blood in stool. They seem lethargic. Both birds feel light and have little breast meat - two symptoms of the disease! I think you might be right... sigh. I love these birds. I will follow your advice... if they are still alive in the morning. Thanks keesmom. Wasn't expecting this with my first Faverolles. Such sweet birds. Can't believe the man I bought them from can treat his animals so inhumanely. Money and greed are terrible traits in some people. Thanks for all your help.

 

[Docile chicky babe]

Birds holding on. I got a coccidiosis specific medication I have to add to water for seven days and administered a high protein feed. The salesman's advice after showing them the pics was to, "knock them over the head with a shovel and start again." I know they probably won't make it but I'm too fond of little ones not to try.