Tips for mycoplasma positive flock

[ORoppolo7]

Hello! I recently acquired chickens, all of different breeds but from the same person. After having them for about 4 weeks, they all presented with respiratory signs. I had them tested and they are mycoplasma positive. I do not have any intentions of culling them (unless they are suffering of course). I was hoping for any tips/tricks to keep them from having flare ups. We have been using Tylosin (discontinued now) but a few have lingering sneezing, nasal discharge and 2 with rales. I have added in Rooster Booster Poultry Booster to their feed, VetRx under their wings, Rooster Booster electolytes to their water, and some herbs (Thyme, Oregano, Tumeric) in their feed as well. Any and all advice will be super appreciated and helpful. Thanks so much!

 

[janiedoe]

Welcome to BYC. I have a mereks positive pet flock and I understand your desire to keep your flock alive and healthy.
Housing is the most important aspect of good health, in my humble opinion. A dry, well ventilated, and roomy coop can prevent discomfort and illness. A covered and secure run is also a happy place for mine. Secondly, change stresses chickens, but so does boredom. You can combat boredom, without making big changes, by bringing in an old chair to perch on or adding a new roost occasionally.
Good nutrition is also a must. Limit your treats and feed an 18 to 20% all flock type feed with oyster shell and grit offered free choice. For treats I give mine a "salad" twice a week. Its made up of chopped spinach, carrots, broccoli, cucumber, and blueberries, grapes, or apples. They enjoy this very much.
Clean up food messes promptly to prevent mold and pests. Speaking of pests, worming and treating for mites and lice as needed, are also very important as they can lead to malnutrition which will make your flock more vulnerable.
Good luck with your flock!

 

[VaDutch]

Oregano Oil may help. Its cool you added the herbs to their feed. Looks like you are already being pretty proactive about it.

 

[ORoppolo7]

Welcome to BYC. I have a mereks positive pet flock and I understand your desire to keep your flock alive and healthy.
Housing is the most important aspect of good health, in my humble opinion. A dry, well ventilated, and roomy coop can prevent discomfort and illness. A covered and secure run is also a happy place for mine. Secondly, change stresses chickens, but so does boredom. You can combat boredom, without making big changes, by bringing in an old chair to perch on or adding a new roost occasionally.
Good nutrition is also a must. Limit your treats and feed an 18 to 20% all flock type feed with oyster shell and grit offered free choice. For treats I give mine a "salad" twice a week. Its made up of chopped spinach, carrots, broccoli, cucumber, and blueberries, grapes, or apples. They enjoy this very much.
Clean up food messes promptly to prevent mold and pests. Speaking of pests, worming and treating for mites and lice as needed, are also very important as they can lead to malnutrition which will make your flock more vulnerable.
Good luck with your flock!

Thank you so much! I've heard so many mixed things about how to care for myco + flock. Of course culling everyone and starting over was the top choice from most but I love my chickens and would rather give them a shot.

 

[N F C]

Hi, @janiedoe has provided some great info. If you need additional help, you can also post on this forum: ER/Diseases/Injuries and Cures

Best wishes!

 

[GodLovesU]

 

[Debbie292d]

Hiya, and welcome to BYC!

I hope your flock thrives, as it sounds like you're doing all the right things. Be sure to post in our ER thread that @N F C posted above, for more help if needed!

We're glad you're here!