We love our chooks. If you have never had chickens as pets then you are missing out on one of life's rich experiences. They are smart, absorbing pets and give back in return! They are easy to keep healthy but there are some common conditions and diseases that you need to watch or you may end up having a crook chook. Learn more below.
CROOK CHOOK
BROODY HENS
MOULTING
PARASITES
If a chicken is unwell she may exhibit a range of symptoms. A hens comb is a good indicator of health. It should be large,red and mostly standing straight. A sick birds comb will become pale and limp. It is also important to monitor your flocks behaviour. A sick hen will become inactive and may have diarrhoea or laboured breathing.
Broodiness can occur when a motherly hen wants to hatch eggs. If you are not wishing to hatch eggs then this condition can have negative health effects as well as a reduction in egg production. In order to break broodiness.
Hens normally undergo one complete moult a year, usually in autumn. . Natural moulting usually begins sometime during March or April and should be completed by July when egg production recommences.
Just the same as owning a dog or cat, it is vital that your chickens are treated for both external and internal parasites. External parasites can cause signs such as feather damage, anaemia and irritation, but they may also carry severe, life threatening diseases such as tick fever.
Signs of internal parasitism may include weight loss, pale combs or diarrhea.
In order to avoid a crook chook examine them regularly and monitor for any of the symptoms mentioned above.
Products to treat parasites in poultry can be recommended by your veterinarian.
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