silkie with runny nose

[kelck22]

I notice her nose was runny a few days ago. It has gotten worse. Hasn't sneezed while I'm around. She is the only chicken with this problem. What should I give her?

 

[kelck22]

Also they eyes seem fine and she doesn't make noise when breathing.

 

[kelck22]

Anyone?

 

[Pathfinders]

Well, it's either a virus or a bacteria (assuming you've ruled out things like poor ventilation.)

You can try antibiotics, which will help with bacterial infections. I prefer Tylan powder, which I mix in with the water. It's not cheap, but the cheap stuff doesn't usually work, in my experience.

You can also try some immune system boosters, here's a recipe from my website: http://pathfindersfarm.com/HerbalMash.html

What you'll need:
Echinacea powder
Astragalus powder
Oregon Grape powder or Goldenseal
Apple cider vinegar
Probiotic powder (acidophilus in a variety of forms)

I like to get my herbs from Mountain Rose Herbs, and
choose organic when I can.

This recipe is per bird, mix a batch according to how many birds you are trying to feed, and increase as needed.

Make a hot mash with about half a cup of corn, oats (or oatmeal), and/or barley or a mixture of the three. Add a given amount of grains to cold water and cook according
to the type of grain used, as times will differ depending on the grain.

Cook the grains well, until they are soft and mushy. Let cool, (not cold), then stir in the herbs and other ingredients.

Use ½ Tsp of the herbs, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 heaping tablespoon of Probiotic powder PER BIRD.

The mixture may become stiff after adding the herbs, add more warm water if you need to in order for the mash to be mushy but not too soupy.

Feed the mixture to your birds once per day for three days, then rest for one. Then three more, one off, as needed (this is called "pulsing" the herbs.)

You can still eat the eggs while using the herbs, but be aware they may give the eggs a slightly earthy taste.

This will boost your birds immune systems and help them get over any viral diseases they might be struggling with.

Nota Bene:
If you wish, add in some hard boiled, mashed-in-the-shell eggs, it's great for them!
Feed once per day for three days, then take a day off.
Do not feed the mash every day.

Hope she gets better soon!