I have 8 chicks ranging from ages of close to 2 weeks to 3+ weeks, and various breeds. One of the youngest one started sneezing last week and it sounded more like a "quack." That only lasted a few days, and there were a few days without any problems from any of the chicks. Now, 3 or more are sneezing. Everyone acts fine. (eating, drinking, chasing bugs, eating sand and bathing in it) They live outside in a small hutch with a heat lamp, and when the nights are in the upper 40's, I try to cover the sides up extra good. (which I do every night anyways) When it rained, I put a tarp around the outside, (the hutch is not where it will get wet) and there was cardboard underneath that to keep some heat in. On the other end, there was a gap to let air out, as well as some air coming up from the bottom of the cage. It has a wire bottom, but there is hay for bedding. As far as I know, there is not any nasal discharge from them, but honestly I don't know exactly what that looks like. I'm concerned about the air coming through the hutch. What is too much? How much ventilation is needed? Should I worry about the sneezes????
Don't worry about sneezes. They sneeze from dust, loose feed, etc. It's very common. It's just as common as us sneezing in a dusty environment. And for the same reason. If there is no mucus or nasal discharge, you're just fine. Go for a lot of ventilation, almost always. The only exception is during the winter, when the nights are below freezing. The foul air from the ammonia in their droppings is a lot more harmful than the cold. Upper 40s is pretty warm, actually. Mine are just fine when the nights are in their teens. Remember: these chickens originated in Iceland or England or New England, in times before electricity. Make sure they have a place to go to stay dry, and out of a draft if it's below freezing. Hope this helps! I had the exact same concerns, not even 6 months ago.
Wow, thanks for posting this! I just got online to ask the same question, and I just found that my question is already posted and answered! Imagine that! I only have one chick but I'm trying to get another for her to have some company. (No luck yet!) Anyway, she is almost 3 weeks old and I just noticed her sneezing a couple of times yesterday. Today, I noticed the same thing. Honestly, I need to change her bedding. I'll do it in the morning after the sun is up, but it's not too bad. Just got me thinking. I'm glad to know she is alright.
