Sneezing and Very Loose Poop in Flock

[mediachickenlady]

Good Morning, I seem to be confusing myself. I have chickens that are sneezing, have diarrhea and sound kind of raspy when they make noise. It's hard to describe. But...they're acting normal, eating and drinking, seem happy otherwise. I'm going out to purchase tetracycline for them this morning. Am I making the right purchase? The diarrhea is what is tripping me up. I'm going to get some yogurt for them, as well. Any other suggestions? Thanks!

 

[Eggcessive]

Have you noticed any swelling around their faces or eyes, or any rattles or gurgles when they breathe? Diarrhea is common in respiratory diseases, and probiotics might help. Respiratory diseases can be from viruses, bacteria or mycoplasma, or from mold. Only bacterial and mycoplasma diseases will respond to antibiotics, but secondary diseases may be prevented in viruses or the others if using antibiotics. Testing may tell you what you are dealing with, since most of these are carrier producing diseases. I would prefer oxytetracycline to tetracycline (Duramycin 10) to treat, but Tylan Soluble Powder is better, but expensive. If you don't have many sick birds then Tylan 50 injectable (plus syringes and 22 gauge needles) can be purchased, and each bird can be dosed orally. Tylan 50 runs about $14 while the oral powder is $55. Sometimes sick birds won't drink well enough to get the medication, so that's why many use the Tylan 50 to give either orally, or as a shot into the breast muscle. I also would only treat those birds who show symptoms, not the whole flock. Here is a good link to read about the most common respiratory diseases (MG, infectious bronchitis, coryza, ILT, and aspergillosis) and their symptoms: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ps044

 

[JediJinx]

I have the same thing going on here. Sneezing, snotty noses, and a few have diarrhea. I hope its something they can get over. Started with the cooler weather. It is sooo cold, wet and muddy, I feel terrible for them. Husband doesn't want them to move into the house though.

 

[Eggcessive]

I have the same thing going on here. Sneezing, snotty noses, and a few have diarrhea. I hope its something they can get over. Started with the cooler weather. It is sooo cold, wet and muddy, I feel terrible for them. Husband doesn't want them to move into the house though.

Sometimes with respiratory diseases, they need extra heat to keep warm. Can you use a lower wattage heat lamp? Respiratory disease is chronic, and although many do survive, they will be carriers. The whole flock should be considered carriers. Many people believe in culling any sick birds, especially if you have a large flock. Just be sure to close your flock to ever selling or giving away chickens or hatching eggs, since MG can be passed on in the egg. Eating eggs are fine, though.