Keeping backyard chickens can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. As with any animal, chickens are prone to various health problems that can affect their well-being and productivity. In this article, we will cover the most common chicken health problems, their symptoms, causes, and treatments.
Egg-Laying Issues
Egg-laying issues are one of the most common chicken health problems in chickens. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Vitamin deficiencies: A lack of essential vitamins such as calcium and vitamin D3 can lead to egg-laying issues.
- Parasites and infections: Internal parasites and bacterial infections can cause inflammation and damage to the reproductive system, leading to egg-laying issues.
- Stress: Chronic stress can cause a chicken's body to go into "stress mode," leading to a decrease in egg production.
Symptoms of egg-laying issues may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Abnormal droppings
- Weakness
- Respiratory issues
Treatment for egg-laying issues usually involves adding calcium and protein supplements to the chicken's diet, as well as providing a balanced and nutritious feed.
Cuts and Peck Marks
Cuts and peck marks are one of the more common chicken health problems in backyard chickens, especially if they are kept in small or overcrowded coops. These injuries can be caused by:
- Stress: Chickens may become stressed due to overcrowding, leading them to peck at each other.
- Aggression: Some breeds of chickens are more aggressive than others and may cause cuts and peck marks.
Symptoms of cuts and peck marks include:
- Bald spots with missing feathers
- Scabs and cuts in easily reached places such as the back
Treatment for cuts and peck marks involves isolating the injured bird, cleaning the wound, and applying a colored wound spray to conceal it and discourage other chickens from pecking at it.
Foot Injuries
Foot injuries are common in backyard chickens, especially if they have access to rough or uneven terrain. These injuries can be caused by:
- Cuts: Chickens may cut their feet on sharp objects such as rocks or metal.
- Infections: Bacterial infections can cause abscesses and inflammation in the foot.
Symptoms of foot injuries include:
- Inability or reluctance to put weight on the injured foot
- Lethargy
- Increased sitting time
Treatment for foot injuries involves cleaning the wound with an antiseptic wash, applying a bandage, and isolating the bird from other flock members.
Diseases and Parasites
Diseases are one of the most common chicken health problems in backyard flocks. These diseases can be caused by:
- Parasites: Mites, lice, ticks, and worms can all cause disease in chickens.
- Viral infections: Viruses such as infectious bronchitis and Marek's disease can cause a range of symptoms including respiratory issues and lethargy.
- Bacterial infections: Bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella can cause a range of symptoms including respiratory issues and diarrhea.
Symptoms of diseases may include:
- Sores on the skin
- Coughing and sneezing
- Declined egg production
- Nasal and eye discharge
- Paralysis
Treatment for diseases usually involves vaccinations, antiparasitic medications, and antibiotics. Some viral infections cannot be cured.
Pasty Vent (Pasty Butt)
Pasty vent is a condition that affects baby chicks, where the droppings become caked around the vent. This can cause:
- Blockage: The vent becomes blocked, preventing the chick from passing droppings.
- Infection: Bacterial infections can cause inflammation and damage to the reproductive system.
Symptoms of pasty vent include:
- Caked droppings on the vent
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
Treatment for pasty vent involves wetting the dried droppings with a wet paper towel and gently teasing them out.
Other Chicken Health Problems
In addition to the health problems mentioned above, there are several other common chicken health problems that can affect backyard chickens. These include:
Soft Shell Eggs
A soft shell egg is one where the shell is thin and fragile. Adding calcium supplements to the diet can help strengthen the shells.
Red Mite
Red mite is a parasite that can cause irritation and discomfort in chickens. Cleaning the coop regularly and applying diatomaceous earth powder can help control red mite populations.
Impacted Crop
An impacted crop is when food becomes stuck in the crop, causing blockages and inflammation. Gently massaging the crop with a finger can help dislodge blockages.
Scaly Leg
Scaly leg is a condition where the legs become encrusted with thickened scales. Â Applying Vaseline to the affected area can help suffocate the mites and soften the scales.
Egg Yolk Peritonitis (EYP)
EYP is a condition where the egg yolks accumulate in the belly of the chicken, causing inflammation and damage to the reproductive system. A diet of corn only may help bring the chicken off lay, preventing further egg yolk accumulation.
Worms
Worms can cause a range of symptoms including lethargy, weight loss, and diarrhea. Regular worming treatments with medications such as Ivermectin can help control worm populations.