What do you think this bump on the beak is? Hatched on 7-3-17

[Chickmagnet9]

Last evening I noticed a bump on my babies beak. I have no idea what it is. It doesn't seem to hurt or hinder eating and drinking. Has a lot of energy and is interested in everything and in me. I only had some veterycin on me last night so that's what I used but I'm certain there is something else I need to be doing. There are 5 other chicks that seem just fine and have no growths at all. At least that I can see. The coop is clean and they are fully enclosed on the inside and the outside. They do have a mama. Any help is appreciated. I'm hoping this is not a contagious or dangerous thing I need to worry about.

Sincerely,
Chickmagnet9

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Looks like fowl pox which is transmitted by mosquitoes and runs it's course in about 6 weeks. It will get worse before it gets better if that's what it is.

 

[Chickmagnet9]

Thank you for the info. does it hurt them? once a chicken has it, can it be passed to other chickens? We actually have had mosquitoes. Is there a med I should give them internally or topically?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

It's a virus so antibiotics will do nothing. It can depend on how bad it gets. If it gets in the mouth they can have troubles, otherwise it doesn't seem to bother them too much.

The scabs can be contagious so I don't mess with them in any way. It seems hit and miss on who gets it. Those that have it will become immune to it.

Best you can do is cut down on standing water to cut down on mosquitoes, but that can be an impossible task. Don't be surprised if it does get worse. I have had some with eyes swollen shut. As long as one eye is open they seem to do okay.

 

[Chickmagnet9]

Oh my. I am SO GLAD I asked so I am better prepared....if this is what it is.

 

[MaryZoe]

I agree with the above post, but keep in mind that it spreads slowly (through direct contact as well as airborne contact), so if you separate those little fellas (and their mom), and if they have not had contact with your other chix, you might avoid the spread. You should also see such bumps/lesions on their feet and combs. Most chickens survive fowl pox.

But it's also possible that the bump is just the result of a peck or a scratch of some sort. Fingers crossed!

 

[Eggcessive]

I think it could be pox, but it also may be an injury from a sharp feeder, waterer, or fencing or from pecking. I would use a little betadine on it daily, and not disturb the scab. If you notice more spots on a comb or the other chicks, then pox may be the culprit.

 

[Chickmagnet9]

Hi everyone! Thank you so much for the input. I was unable to view on my mobile. It isn't the easiest. Just getting back now. Well, I have 1 big chicken with a covered eye and another one with black spots on the comb. All are still running around happy and healthy. Eating and drinking and pooping just fine. I bet it's pox. Baby is the only baby affected so far and is doing great as if nothing happened, just like the big girls I saw yesterday and today. I've added probiotics to all water and a multivitamin, too. Sheesh! A day in the life.....