Preventing and Treating Common Chicken Diseases

Chickens are prone to various diseases, but with proper care and preventive measures, most health issues can be avoided. Regularly check your flock for signs of illness, such as lethargy, reduced appetite, ruffled feathers, or abnormal droppings.

Some common diseases include:

Marek’s disease: A viral infection that causes paralysis; vaccination can prevent it.

Coccidiosis: A parasitic disease causing diarrhea and weakness; medicated feed or probiotics help prevent it.

Respiratory infections: Often caused by poor ventilation or ammonia buildup in the coop; keeping the environment clean and dry reduces the risk.

To maintain a healthy flock, practice biosecurity measures such as isolating new birds before introducing them, regularly cleaning the coop, and providing a well-balanced diet to boost immunity. If a chicken shows signs of serious illness, consult a veterinarian immediately.