Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Causes: This is a highly contagious disease. It is spread by a virus and becomes airborne
from the feather follicles of infected birds.
Treatment: The chicks are vaccinated at 1 day old. If they are infected, they are usually
destroyed as they can become carriers.
MoniLiasis (Thrush)
Symptoms: A white cheesy looking growth will appear around their crop. Their appetite
will be increased and laying capacity will be decreased. The chicken's feathers will be
ruffled and droopy in appearance.
Causes: If chickens eat moldy feed or contaminated water they can get this problem. So-
metimes if they have been on antibiotics it can cause this ailment.
Treatment: There is no vaccine for this problem. The condition is usually treated with Nys-
tatin, which can be obtained from the vet. Water and food containers must be disinfected
and fresh water and feed should be provided daily.
Mycoplasmosis/CRD/Air Sac Disease
Symptoms: Egg-laying will be decreased and initially weakness in the chicken can be ob-
served. Signs of acute infection can be swollen joints and trouble in breathing. Wheezing
sneezing and coughing can be present.
Causes: Wild birds may carry the disease. The mother hen can transmit the infection to the
chick through the egg if she has the disease.
Treatment: Vaccines are available and a course of antibiotics may be recommended by the
vet.
Newcastle Disease
Symptoms: Wheezing and difficulties in breathing will be present. Paralysis of the legs and
wings are present and the eyes appear cloudy. The neck is twisted
Causes: Wild birds can contaminate the chickens and surfaces, or birds with the disease can
pass it on to other chickens.
Treatment: Vaccines are available. There is a high mortality of birds that contract the dis-
ease below 6 months.
Chicken Anemia Virus
