4 common respiratory illnesses in chickens – prevention and treatment suggestions

A healthy chicken typically breathes through its closed beak. If a chicken is breathing with its beak open, it may be sick or experiencing stress, such as from heat or anxiety. Respiratory illnesses in chickens often come with other symptoms, including sneezing, coughing, wheezing, nasal discharge, or sticky eyes.

Many respiratory infections are highly contagious and can be caused by either viruses or bacteria. Since viral and bacterial infections require different treatments, it’s crucial to distinguish between them for the well-being of your flock. Below are four common respiratory diseases in chickens and their causes.

Chronic Respiratory Disease (CRD)

Chronic respiratory disease (CRD) is caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum bacteria. It is a contagious condition that develops gradually and can persist for a long time. CRD often follows an acute respiratory virus, like infectious bronchitis, and primarily affects adult chickens, though it rarely leads to death. Chickens that recover from CRD typically develop immunity to future infections.

The first sign of CRD is usually weepy eyes, sometimes accompanied by slight swelling. However, it’s important to note that weepy eyes can also be caused by factors like excessive dust, drafts, or a vitamin A deficiency.

With prompt treatment, such as erythromycin eye ointment (available by veterinary prescription), CRD usually clears up within a few days. If left untreated, swelling around the eyes worsens, and they may become foamy or sticky. In severe cases, the chicken may struggle to breathe. Other symptoms include nasal discharge (without odor), coughing, sneezing, and other respiratory sounds.

Infectious Bronchitis

Infectious bronchitis, caused by a strain of coronavirus, is the most contagious respiratory disease in chickens. It typically begins suddenly and spreads quickly throughout the flock. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, and rattling sounds from the throat, which may be most noticeable in older birds at night while they are roosting.

There is no cure for this viral infection. Although a vaccine is available, it only provides protection against specific strains, and new strains continue to emerge. The most effective way to control the disease is to remove the infected chickens, thoroughly clean and disinfect the area, and start fresh.

Infectious Coryza

Infectious coryza is one of the most common bacterial respiratory diseases in backyard chickens, caused by Haemophilus paragallinarum bacteria. It is particularly widespread in California and the southeastern United States, and older chickens are more susceptible to infection.

This disease can be challenging to identify because it shares symptoms with other respiratory conditions and often occurs alongside them. The primary signs of coryza include foul-smelling nasal discharge, watery, sticky eyes, and facial swelling. The distinct, unpleasant odor of the nasal discharge is a strong indicator of coryza.

The infection spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing by infected chickens. Even birds that recover from the disease can remain carriers, as can other chickens in the same flock that never show symptoms. This makes coryza particularly difficult to control, as it can unknowingly be introduced to a flock through a carrier, such as at a swap meet or poultry sale.

While antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian can help manage the symptoms, they do not eliminate the disease. Once coryza is diagnosed, a vaccine can prevent future outbreaks in the flock.

Wet Pox

Pox is caused by a poxvirus, but it is different from the virus that causes chickenpox in humans.

In chickens, pox appears in two forms. The more common dry pox affects the skin, is usually temporary, and often resolves on its own.

Wet pox, however, is much more serious and can even be fatal. It typically affects adult chickens that inhale the virus through dust or dander. This form of the disease causes yellow, curd-like lesions to develop in the mouth and windpipe. These lesions can accumulate and obstruct the bird’s ability to breathe or swallow, leading to suffocation or starvation.

To control wet pox in areas where it is common, it’s important to manage mites and mosquitoes, as they can spread the virus. Annual vaccination is also recommended, especially for exhibition chickens.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Respiratory Infections in Chickens

To protect your flock from respiratory infections, it’s important to follow these preventive measures:

• Limit human entry into the chicken area as much as possible to reduce the risk of introducing harmful bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Use foot dips to help prevent the spread of disease from shoes or equipment.
• Quarantine new chickens before introducing them to your main flock to ensure they are not carrying any infections.
• Maintain proper hygiene in the coop to minimize the risk of disease.
• Minimize stress in your flock by ensuring proper ventilation, avoiding overcrowding, and maintaining stable temperatures.
• Provide a balanced diet that includes feed supplements recommended for chickens, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, to help support their immune system and overall health.
• Clean the coop regularly and remove droppings to maintain a hygienic environment. This helps reduce the buildup of ammonia gas, which can irritate the respiratory system.

Respiratory infections can severely impact your chickens’ health and productivity, so regular inspection of both the coop and your flock is essential. By catching any signs of illness early, you can address potential issues before they become serious.

Treatment of Respiratory Infections in Chickens

Treating respiratory infections in chickens begins with early intervention as soon as symptoms are recognized. If you suspect a respiratory illness, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian immediately and carefully follow their guidance. Once the specific cause of the infection—whether bacterial, viral, or fungal—is identified, your vet will prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Antibiotics are commonly used to treat bacterial respiratory infections in chickens, as they can provide rapid relief, especially if the disease is caught early. Depending on the nature of the infection, your veterinarian may prescribe a combination of antibiotics, antiviral, or antifungal medications. In addition to administering the prescribed medications, it’s essential to maintain proper ventilation in the coop, regulate the temperature, and provide electrolyte solutions to help the chickens stay hydrated and recover more quickly. Regular feeding and overall care are key to supporting their recovery.

Joanna Starkey writes for No Rulz Ranch Hatchery in Beggs, Oklahoma.