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Chickens are susceptible to a variety of respiratory illnesses, which can pose serious health challenges, whether you’re raising a small backyard flock or managing poultry in rural areas. If these illnesses aren’t promptly identified, diagnosed, and treated, they can quickly spread and infect an entire flock.
Respiratory issues in chickens can stem from a range of diseases, each with its own set of symptoms, such as open-mouthed breathing, ruffled feathers, sneezing, head shaking, and nasal or eye discharge.
Recognizing these symptoms early and understanding the underlying causes is crucial to preventing the spread of infection. If not addressed quickly, these diseases can rapidly spread, endangering the flock and potentially affecting human health, as seen with avian flu. In this article, we will explore the causes of respiratory illnesses in chickens, discuss common symptoms, and provide guidance on treatment and prevention measures.
Types of Chicken Diseases
| Disease | Causes | Symptoms | Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mycoplasma | Caused by coming into contact with a microorganism called Mycoplasma | Mostly caused by chickens living in dusty environments. It also could be caused if the ammonia levels are above normal | Antibiotics and quarantining |
| Infectious Bronchitis | It is caused by a virus and it is limited only to chickens | Sneezing, coughing, and open-mouth breathing | While there is no treatment for this, most of the chickens recover. Quarantining and maintaining good health is the best way forward |
| Dust/Ammonia | Shortness of breath. Bringing up phlegm, chest tightness, and coughing and sneezing | Feed restriction along with controlling humidity and air movements | Try and reduce ammonia levels. If not shift the birds to a healthier place |
| Ascites | Apart from breathing problems, it also leads to liver damage. It is caused by toxins in certain plants such as Crotalaria | Poor development of the bird, dilated abdomen also referred to as water belly, and blue discoloration of the skin | Feed restriction along with controlling of humidity and air movements |
| Airsacculitis | It is caused by gram-negative bacteria and impacts the LRT – Lower Respiratory Tract | Breathing problems, rapid breathing, breathing through the mouth, and other such problems | Antibiotics along with nebulization and a high dosage of Vitamin E therapy |
Aspergillosis
Aspergillosis is a common disease in the aviary world, and it poses a significant threat because it can also be transmitted to humans. This disease is caused by certain types of fungi and primarily affects the respiratory system.
The symptoms of Aspergillosis can vary widely, depending on the type of chicken, its age, and other factors. Treatment is often lengthy and requires patience, as fungal infections are notoriously stubborn. Typically, the treatment lasts between four to six months, with itraconazole being the preferred medication. In addition to antifungal drugs, nebulization is often recommended to help manage the symptoms, which can include respiratory difficulties and open-mouth breathing.
Avian Influenza
Commonly known as bird flu, Avian Influenza is a serious illness that frequently affects birds. It’s not unusual to hear about the mass culling of thousands or even millions of chickens due to outbreaks of this disease. Avian Influenza spreads quickly and presents with a variety of symptoms, including sneezing, coughing, darkened wattles and comb, nasal discharge, and swelling around the eyes and head.
Fever is also a common symptom. As a viral infection, there is no specific cure, and treatment typically focuses on managing the symptoms. Fortunately, most birds tend to recover within four to five days.
Coryza
Coryza is a bacterial infection that affects the lungs and respiratory system of birds. If caught early, it can be treated effectively with antibiotics. However, the bacteria can persist in the birds for some time, so isolation and quarantine are recommended to prevent further spread.
Coryza presents with a range of respiratory symptoms, including foul-smelling discharges of various colors, wheezing, sneezing, labored breathing, nasal and eye discharges, and facial swelling. The commonly prescribed antibiotics for treating Coryza are macrolides and fluoroquinolones.
Fowl Pox
Fowl Pox is a disease that spreads slowly among chickens, turkeys, and other birds. It manifests with a range of symptoms, including respiratory difficulties, clogging of the lungs and bronchial passages, and the development of proliferative lesions on the skin. If not addressed, these lesions can form thick, scabby growths on the skin.
Lesions can also develop in the respiratory and upper gastrointestinal tracts. Unfortunately, there is no cure for fowl pox, so many chicken owners opt to cull the infected birds and vaccinate the rest of the flock. A single vaccination can provide lifelong protection for birds against this disease.
Gapeworm
Gapeworm is a parasitic worm that primarily affects birds, particularly chickens. These worms infect the respiratory passages, causing severe and potentially life-threatening breathing difficulties. As they grow, they can block the airways, making it increasingly difficult for the affected birds to breathe.
Chickens with gapeworm typically exhibit symptoms such as head shaking, gasping, coughing, rattling breaths, and noticeable distress while breathing. In some cases, the worms become large enough to be visible in the bird’s throat.
Treatment usually involves administering moxidectin or ivermectin. However, if the worms are significantly large, caution is needed as the treatment could cause further blockage in the breathing passages. It’s crucial to consult a vet immediately and isolate the infected chickens to prevent the spread of the parasite.
While many respiratory illnesses can affect chickens, gapeworm is among the most common and problematic. If you observe any symptoms of gapeworm, it’s vital to separate the infected birds right away.
Infectious Laryngotracheitis
Infectious Laryngotracheitis, or ILT, is a highly contagious and dangerous viral infection that primarily affects chickens and pheasants. This acute disease causes a range of symptoms, with the most common being mild to severe breathing difficulties, coughing, and respiratory noises. Infected birds may also experience nasal and eye discharge, tracheitis, mild respiratory sounds, and conjunctivitis.
There is no specific cure for ILT, so treatment typically focuses on managing the symptoms. However, antibiotics are often prescribed to prevent secondary infections, which can help reduce the loss of birds in poultry flocks.
Vaccination is the most effective way to protect chickens from ILT. If the disease is not detected and treated early, it can lead to severe respiratory issues, including choking and death due to asphyxiation. Other serious symptoms may include wheezing, mouth breathing, and the development of lesions in severe cases.
Mycoplasma Gallisepticum
Mycoplasma Gallisepticum is an infection that primarily affects chickens, turkeys, and other birds, leading to respiratory issues with symptoms similar to other respiratory diseases common in poultry. While the mortality rate is generally low, the disease can have a high morbidity rate, especially if the birds have other underlying health conditions.
Although chickens can contract Mycoplasma Gallisepticum, turkeys are particularly vulnerable to this infection. Symptoms often include nasal or eye discharge. Since this is a bacterial infection, it can be treated with antibiotics such as clarithromycin, azithromycin, or erythromycin.
In cases where symptoms are mild, antibiotic treatment may not be necessary, as the birds often recover on their own.
Newcastle Disease
Newcastle Disease, or NDV, is a highly contagious and severe viral infection that affects the avian population worldwide. This disease poses a significant threat due to its rapid spread and devastating impact on birds. The symptoms are distinct and easily recognizable, often including gasping, coughing, nasal bleeding, drooping wings, muscle tremors, loss of appetite, depression, and abnormal head and neck movements. Additionally, birds may experience tissue swelling, foul-smelling nasal discharge, and in some cases, watery diarrhea.
As a viral infection, there is no specific treatment for Newcastle Disease, so management focuses on alleviating symptoms. The virus can remain active for up to two months and can survive in dead birds for over a year, making the prompt and safe disposal of carcasses crucial to preventing further spread.
Fortunately, the virus is susceptible to disinfectants, which can effectively neutralize it when applied to infected areas. Additionally, exposure to direct sunlight can rapidly inactivate the virus, further aiding in containment efforts.
How To Prevent Respiratory Illnesses in Chickens
Keep a Clean Environment
Respiratory diseases in chickens and other birds often stem from unclean environments. To reduce the risk of these infections, it’s crucial to maintain a clean, dust-free living space for your birds.
Vaccination is Key
Vaccination plays a key role in preventing the spread of many infections, particularly those caused by viruses. While bacterial and fungal infections can generally be managed with antibiotics, antifungal treatments, and topical ointments, viral infections are best prevented through proactive vaccination.
Quarantine to Control the Spread
Quarantining new birds is essential for stopping the spread of serious, life-threatening respiratory diseases. Following strict quarantine protocols helps protect your flock from potential outbreaks.
If you notice any signs of illness in your birds, it’s critical to isolate the affected birds immediately. Early separation can prevent the spread of diseases and protect the rest of your flock from severe health issues.
Classic Symptoms of Chicken Illnesses
Birds, especially chickens, often display noticeable symptoms when they’re affected by infections, particularly those impacting the upper respiratory tract and pulmonary system. Being aware and vigilant of these signs is crucial. While symptoms can vary, certain indicators are commonly associated with respiratory issues. Here are some key symptoms to watch for:
Respiratory diseases in chickens primarily affect their ability to breathe, so noticing any signs of breathing difficulty is the first indication that something might be wrong. But how can you tell if your chicken is struggling to breathe? Here are the most common symptoms to watch for:
Open-Mouthed Breathing
If your chicken starts breathing with its mouth open, it’s a clear sign that it’s having trouble getting enough air. This behavior indicates that the chicken is trying to compensate for its breathing difficulties.
Sneezing
Frequent sneezing is a common symptom of respiratory issues in chickens. If your chicken is sneezing more than usual, it’s a sign that something may be affecting its respiratory system.
Ruffled Feathers
Chickens often ruffle their feathers when they’re uncomfortable or irritated. If your chicken is having trouble breathing, you may notice it becoming agitated and ruffling its feathers as a result.
Gurgling or Wheezing Sounds
If you hear gurgling or wheezing sounds coming from your chicken, it’s a cause for concern. These noises, which resemble bubbling or splashing water, can indicate a serious respiratory problem that needs immediate attention.
Head Shaking
Chickens may shake their heads frequently when they’re frustrated or struggling to breathe. If you notice your chicken shaking its head more than usual, it could be a sign of respiratory distress.
Discharge Around Eyes and Nostrils
Excessive discharge from the eyes and nostrils can also be a symptom of respiratory disease. If you see your chicken with watery eyes or a runny nose, it may be experiencing breathing difficulties.
Other symptoms include:
- Yawning
- Swelling of the face
- Rapid fatigue
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