Chicken sneezing and shaking head treatment. I use pine shavings in the brooder.

Chicken sneezing and shaking head treatment. Upper Respiratory Infection One of the main reasons chickens sneeze could be an upper respiratory infection. A chicken shaking its head and walking backward is alarming. May 28, 2024 · Why do chickens sneeze? Just like us, chickens sneeze to clear their nasal passages of irritants. Mar 24, 2022 · It's best to separate chickens showing symptoms of a disease, such as coughing, sneezing, or wheezing, from the rest of the flock. But gasping with an open beak is a late symptom indicating urgent treatment is needed. Learn how to protect your flock's health and optimize poultry production. Respiratory infections in chickens can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. In those cases, always consult your veterinarian to help you address the situation more effectively. I believe she has gape worms. Found tylosin here Jun 1, 2023 · 5. Have not checked for a fever Veterinarian's Assistant: When did this congestion start? Has the chicken been licking or scratching its skin as Dec 2, 2021 · Is your chicken gasping for air and stretching neck out? Here is some of the most common respiratory diseases like gapeworm explained, causes, cures, etc. Sep 2, 2025 · Persistent sneezing may be serious While the occasional sneeze is normal for a healthy chicken, persistent sneezing may indicate a more serious issue. Treatments involve isolating the bird, administering appropriate antibiotics if bacterial infection is confirmed, and using antiparasitic agents like diatomaceous earth. She wasn’t sneezing or coughing Customer: Hi. Customer: Sneezing , runny nose, shaking head, runny eye. I cannot get a prescription so I was looking at alternative routes. It can spread from one chicken to another, so sick birds should be kept away from the rest of the flock. However, stress, blocked trachea, respiratory illness, or gapeworms in a chicken’s throat can also cause open-mouth breathing. Chickens are masters at hiding illness—a survival instinct that protected them from predators in the wild—making it particularly challenging for chicken keepers to identify when something is wrong. Clinical signs and lesions In young turkeys sneezing. I will review six of the most common causes. It’s happening to the chickens 1 by 1. Consult a veterinarian to diagnose the specific cause of sneezing and get appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics for bacterial infections or antiparasitic treatments for gapeworms . In more severe cases, if your chicken is coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and having trouble breathing, then the chicken could be suffering from respiratory disease (CRD) and requires immediate medical attention. This is the most common infection and is usually harmless. Oct 8, 2022 · Last month I posted about my chickens Sneezing, head shaking, having runny watery brown poops that are very smelly, puffy eyes, and redder faces. Customer: Hi! I have a silkie bantam chicken who is about 7 weeks old. Chickens have very sensitive ears, and an infection can cause discomfort and irritation, leading to head shaking. Respiratory issues in chickens can stem from a range of diseases, each with its own set of symptoms, such as open-mouthed breathing, ruffled feathers, sneezing, head shaking, and nasal or eye discharge. Some symptoms to look for are: Coughing Rattly breathing/wheezing Unusual/laboured breathing Eye/Nose discharge Breathing with an open mouth Ruffled feathers Shaking of head Inflammation around the beak Nov 18, 2022 · Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, gasping for air, gurgling noises, fast head shaking (trying to clear the throat), grunting, and difficulty breathing. Many times the cause is benign and resolves itself. Rales and nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, swelling of the infraorbital and submandibular sinuses can be seen. It’s one of their ways to try and get rid of a sick feeling because they don May 26, 2022 · What turkey diseases, symptoms, and treatment should you be aware of, whether you intend to raise broad-breasted or heritage birds? Mar 21, 2009 · Don't know too much about them but found some info when searching google for causes of shaking head. We will also be able to guide you on the correct time, called a withholding period, before eggs can be eaten again. Once infected a chicken is infected for life although clinical signs will regress with time and treatment but they are always liable to come back particularly at time of stress. A slight rattle in the chest, difficulty breathing with the neck extended, or a gasp could signal a gapeworm infection. Aug 17, 2024 · Respiratory issues in chickens can stem from a range of diseases, each with its own set of symptoms, such as open-mouthed breathing, ruffled feathers, sneezing, head shaking, and nasal or eye discharge. Sneezing or wheezy chest are most probably respiratory infection or gape worm. I'll do all I can to help. After Tylosin treatment the only symptom now is the occasional sneeze. Chickens have classic symptoms ranging from head shaking, gasping, coughing, rattling breath and extreme stress while breathing. Normal Causes of Chicken Shaking Chickens shake and tremble for My hen is having respiratory issues. Some of the most common chicken respiratory disease symptoms include: Coughing and Sneezing Like humans, chickens can exhibit coughing and sneezing when their respiratory system is compromised. Has the chicken been eating and drinking normally? Have you checked for a fever? Customer: yes eating and drinking normally. I got some major reasons and treatment in the main section. The only problem was, there was plenty of water available. May 28, 2024 · Your chicken shaking its head can be a sign of various issues, ranging from minor irritations to serious health problems. May 22, 2023 · Just like people, chickens can get sick, catch a cold, and sneeze. May 6, 2022 · It is okay for a chicken to breathe with an open mouth when it feels hot because that’s how they cool. These birds are very susceptible to becoming sick. The miserable patient also suffers fatigue and loss of appetite. When NZ Lifestyle Block reader Martin saw his Araucana hen Goldie gasping for breath, making funny rasping noises and shaking her head, he thought she might be thirsty. Knowing what to do when you have a sick chicken is crucial for getting your feathered friend back to good health. Discover key symptoms, common diseases, and how to protect your flock. Hens often lay less eggs than normal and produce abnormal eggs. How to help a chicken gasping for air? There are many ways to help a chicken gasping for air. May 12, 2009 · Symptoms include depression, gasping for breath, and head shaking in an attempt to remove the worms from the trachea. If your chicken is lounging on the ground with its eyes closed, ready to nap, it could be a red flag signaling an underlying health issue. May 22, 2023 · A pet chicken starting to show signs of being ill is quite worrisome. ART is a pneumovirus which causes swollen heads, swollen sinuses, sneezing and in severe cases nervous signs. All chickens will sneeze occasionally. This infection can be May 4, 2022 · When a chicken is shaking and scratchin its head, it can be a sign of an underlying condition. How To Identify Chicken Sneezing? Mar 13, 2023 · Common chicken illnesses The best investment you will make in your backyard chicken’s health (and your peace of mind when you suspect you have a sick chicken!) is to buy a copy of The Chicken Health Handbook by Gail Damerow. Nov 26, 2024 · Identify & Prevent the 6 Most Common Chicken Diseases It’s important to know the 6 most common chicken diseases and ways to prevent them. May 9, 2022 · When a chicken is making gurgling sounds, it's usually a sign of an infection. Eye discharge, nasal discharge, face swelling, conjunctivitis, sneezing, shaking head, and gurgling sounds are also seen with Infectious Coryza, but Coryza does not cause coughing, gaping or any bloody discharges. She is sneezing a lot of shaking her head when she sneezes. These systems are also followed by swollen eyes and heads, nasal discharge and dark combs. Those tiny particles can get into their sensitive respiratory system. Young birds less than 4 months of age, and roosters, tend to have more severe infections than older or adult birds. When geese aren’t feeling well, they typically shake their heads to sort of shake the cobwebs free. Let’s learn how to prevent and identify chicken sneezing and what are some likely causes and remedies. Weakness, lethargy, and a dull demeanour are non-specific indicators of illness. Customer: My chicken is wheezing, breathing with mouth open, sneezing and shaking head. While sneezing is not always a reason to worry, ensuring everything is right is vital. Symptoms: conjunctivitis; nasal discharge; swollen face; head shaking; bloody mucous discharge; coughing up blood. They are shaking their heads to get rid of it. Oct 11, 2022 · Chicken illnesses with neurological symptoms Avian Encephalomyelitis - Symptoms of this chicken illness loss of coordination, inability to stand, head shaking and other neurological issues Botulism - Symptoms of this chicken illness can include paralysis of limbs and neck, tremors, torticollis. Jul 8, 2020 · I have one chicken that has been sneezing periodically for a few weeks (kind of noticed it in hindsight) but now it’s pretty much constant. Learn how to help your chicken and identify the potential underlying causes. I now have 5-13 week old mixed breed chickens and the 3-15 week olds. We list all possible causes. The name comes from the severe inflammation of the larynx and trachea. MeganDisclaimer: Information in questions, answers, and other posts on this site ("Posts") comes from individual users, not JustAnswer; JustAnswer is not responsible for Posts. Whether you have a sick chicken or just want education, read this! Dec 10, 2024 · Your chicken may be shaking its head due to ear infections, parasites, injuries, respiratory issues, allergies, irritants, stress, or vitamin deficiencies. I have 12 chicks ranging in age from 2 weeks to 6 weeks. The chicken breathing eventually start producing a wheezing and gurgling sound as they will be gasping for air. Three days. Jul 23, 2014 · I recently added 3-15 week old chickens to my small backyard flock. May 28, 2021 · 3 Year Old Buff Orpington Chicken Hen Making quiet sneezes every so often, and when picked up, I hear a slight clicking noise coming from within her body. Sep 15, 2024 · Symptoms Of Chicken Respiratory Disorder (CRD) Chicken respiratory disease grows gradually, and the sooner you detect and get it diagnosed, the better the treatment and recovery of the chicken. It can spread from chicken to chicken, so birds showing symptoms should be separated from the flock. The characteristic signs include tracheal rales or gurgling sounds, nasal discharge, sneezing, gaping, and Respiratory tract infections occur commonly in birds and can affect the upper or lower respiratory tract. Chronic respiratory disease is an upper respiratory infection caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum. Veterinarian's Assistant: I'm sorry to hear that your chickens are experiencing these symptoms. Natural Remedies Adding garlic and apple cider vinegar to water can help boost the Mar 24, 2025 · Learn how to spot respiratory illness in chicks, understand symptoms, causes, and prevention, plus practical treatment tips to keep your flock healthy. Symptoms include reduced appetite, weakness, and abnormal behavior. Some will die, but some pull through. . Jun 18, 2025 · Learn about the common causes, symptoms, and treatment options for respiratory diseases affecting chickens worldwide, including Infectious Bronchitis and Newcastle Disease. Goldie was still eating, drinking, and moving with the flock. Oct 29, 2013 · I have 4 two week old White Plymouth Rock chicks, and I noticed that they twitch/shake their head sometimes. Jan 2, 2024 · Discover compassionate insights and practical tips to address your chicken shaking its head and closing eyes — for a healthier, happier flock. The disease occurs very commonly in backyard chicken flocks worldwide. I currently have about 4 inches of pine May 28, 2023 · Do you see any drainage from her nose or eye bubbles, swollen eyelid, head shaking or gasping? Sneezing can be common, but if it is every few minutes and she is not eating, it might be a sign of a respiratory infection. Could it be allergies? This is my first time having chickens. These issues can cause discomfort and require immediate attention. Jul 9, 2023 · The bird will also become lethargic because its body is trying to fight off the infection. The most common organisms known for causing respiratory infections in chickens Our chicken symptom checker tool allows flock owners to easily and quickly select symptoms their chicken might be experiencing, and provide a list of possible conditions. Any insight? She's Dec 6, 2018 · Is the chicken coughing, wheezing or gaping or gasping for breath. Sep 7, 2022 · Chicken respiratory disease can cause the birds to have symptoms like sneezing or wheezing, and they can also cause birds to shake their heads and close their eyes. Healthy chickens might start sneezing during particularly dusty periods, such as after their coop has been cleaned out. Aug 17, 2024 · Here are the reasons why chickens sneeze and what you can do to treat it. This behavior can indicate various health problems that should be addressed promptly. Apr 11, 2023 · Respiratory diseases of chickens usually include additional signs, such as sneezing, coughing, wheezing, a runny nose, or sticky eyes. I wouldn’t worry unless they’re showing signs of illness such as sneezing, coughing, etc. While chickens naturally shake themselves for various reasons, excessive or abnormal shaking can indicate an underlying health issue What makes chickens shake and tremble? This article will explain, plus give you some advice on how to deal with it. To be Respiratory Issues Diseases affecting the respiratory tract like infectious coryza or mycoplasmosis can cause facial swelling, sinus irritation, and lots of head shaking. Coughing or sneezing Shaking of the head Stretching the neck Loss of appetite and weight loss Weakness and lethargy In severe cases, difficulty breathing and death If you observe these symptoms in your Northampton flock, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent the spread of infection and alleviate your chickens’ discomfort. Can you tell me how old they are and if there's a specific one that started showing symptoms first? A chicken shaking head can be caused by many reasons, from its normal visual functions to more serious reasons such as diseases or parasitic infections. About 3-4 days ago I noticed two of the newest chickens started sneezing and shaking their heads as they sneeze. Young Customer: My chickens are sneezing, coughing, shaking head, bubbles coming out of nose . In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through the steps for caring for an ailing hen and tips for preventing illness in Sep 8, 2025 · As a chicken owner, you may notice your birds shaking or trembling at times. Birds extend their head and neck to facilitate breathing (commonly referred to as "pump handle respiration"). Blood-tinged exudates and serum clots are expelled from the trachea of affected birds. In severe cases of respiratory disease, these birds can have swollen sinuses (which presents as swelling around the eyes), can stop eating and in extreme cases may die. In more advanced cases, the worms may even become visible in the chicken’s throat. Open-mouth breathing while gasping for air, sneezing, and coughing are signs of Aug 22, 2024 · Observing Your Chicken The first thing you will want to do is to observe the chickens a little further. As a chicken owner, it can be alarming to see your feathered friend gasping for air. Has the chicken been licking or scratching her skin as well? Customer: just noticed it looks like shes scratching her face and shaking head Veterinarian's Assistant: And what's the chicken's name and age? Customer: snow bird age 1 year Veterinarian's Assistant: Is there anything else the Vet should know before I connect you? We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. As Dec 31, 2024 · When your chicken shakes its head back and forth, it can be concerning for you as a pet owner. Discover effective prevention strategies and management techniques to maintain flock health. Birds extend their head and neck to facilitate breathing (commonly referred to as “pump handle respiration”). During certain times of the year, respiratory illnesses in chickens are more likely to appear. Chickens will engage in head shaking or head scratching if there is some type of irritation in their nose, ear, or throat. But what exactly causes this respiratory distress? And what should you do about it? This article covers the common causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for respiratory problems in chickens. Oct 12, 2024 · Here are 7 respiratory diseases in chickens, what causes them, how you can take steps to avoid them, and how to treat them. Severe or epizootic form: Causes significant respiratory distress, haemorrhagic tracheitis, blood-mixed mucus expelled by head shaking, sneezing, and conjunctivitis. How is the odor and ventilation in the coop? Is there any dust, mold, or ammonia odor from the droppings? Cause The disease is caused by a pneumovirus. While this may seem like a very violent reaction for such a small animal, a chicken sneezing is not always cause for concern. 3. Infections can be caused by a virus, bacteria, parasites, or fungal agents. In this article, you will learn about the potential causes behind this symptom, what first aid measures you can take, and how VetBilim helps you monitor and improve your chicken's health. There are two main forms of infectious laryngotracheitis which occur in chickens, a severe acute or epizootic form and a mild form. Treatment: Your vet can vaccinate the flock to prevent the disease from infecting the flock. Because chickens are sensitive to breathing issues, you must address all reasons causing your hens to sneeze. Let’s Aug 1, 2022 · Your chicken is sneezing due to a dry and dusty environment that may have poor ventilation. This behavior typically involves rapid side-to-side head. Infected chickens should be isolated from the flock and treated with appropriate antibiotics immediately. Apr 22, 2025 · 788 Mar 15, 2024 DobieLover Chickens sneezing and wheezing and some sounding congested Oldhenhens Nov 27, 2023 Emergencies / Diseases / Injuries and Cures Replies 9 Views 3K Nov 27, 2023 BigBlueHen53 6 week old chick head shaking Crickard21 Apr 10, 2024 Emergencies / Diseases / Injuries and Cures Replies 3 Views 2K Apr 22, 2024 Crickard21 Dec 10, 2024 · Your chicken is making gurgling sounds due to reasons such as respiratory infections, choking, dehydration, sour crop, or inhaled foreign objects. Symptoms of this infection include sneezing, wheezing, heavy breathing, ruffled plumage, nasal discharge, and watering eyes. Frequent sneezing, often accompanied by head shaking, can indicate upper respiratory tract disease. I’m not seeing any change in her behavior, still eating and foraging normally with the others. Transmission The virus may be transmitted horizontally by contaminated water, personnel and equipment as well as from bird to bird. Nov 18, 2022 · These people can guide you with the proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations for respiratory infection in chickens. Mar 11, 2023 · However, the treatment includes systemic antibiotics if the underlying cause is bacteria. Discover the symptoms, causes, treatment and effective prevention strategies for common respiratory issues in chickens. The treatment and prevention plan of virus infections includes vitamin A supplementation (ZADE Liquid). She seems to be eating and drinking normal and is active. The common treatment is to run through a dosage of moxidectin and ivermectin. Aug 22, 2024 · Is your chicken shaking its head frequently? Learn the common reasons behind this behavior and how to help your chickens stay healthy. Certain antibiotics should never be used for routine treatment when there are better and safer choices. If the disease does strike, keep the infected chickens isolated in a warm, dry place, with plenty of fresh greens in their diet. Inhalation produces a wheezing and gurgling sound. However when one of your beloved birds becomes ill it can cause stress and uncertainty. There are several different serotypes and strains of the infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), which are found worldwide. No other birds seem to be affected at all. May 29, 2017 · Here are some common chicken illnesses, chicken diseases and treatment. If she is indoors only though, an upper respiratory infection is unlikely because they usually get it from wild birds. The parasites don’t just make your chickens uncomfortable. Learn what you can do to help your cat. May 28, 2024 · 2. If your chicken is sneezing persistently, has a runny nose, or shows other signs of illness such as coughing or difficulty breathing, it is important to take immediate action. Aug 6, 2025 · Raising backyard chickens can be an incredibly rewarding experience. 1. Head shaking may be respiratory diseases or parasites. I have 5 EEs that are sneezing and shaking their heads too. Look for these common sick chicken symptoms, and learn about sick chicken treatment options. Diseases can quickly kill your bird so knowing when to intervene if your bird shows alarming signs is a must. Nov 20, 2024 · Here are the main signs you should watch for: Wet-sounding coughs and sneezing Gasping and head-shaking Nasal discharge and watery eyes Loss of appetite and lethargy Decreased egg production Misshapen or soft-shelled eggs The Impact on Egg Production I’ll never forget the season when IB hit my laying hens. 12 Causes Of Eye Infections In Chickens Chicken eye infections can be caused by physical injuries, chemical irritants, and infectious agents – bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Tracheal rales (a gurgling sound made during breathing that accompanies tracheal irritation) can be heard in many cases, and can sometimes be mistaken for an upper respiratory infection of some other cause. Aug 13, 2025 · When I observe my chickens, I always look for any unusual behavior, especially if one lets out a sudden sneeze or starts shaking its head. Maybe foods are stuck in the chicken’s throat; therefore. Here in SA it is like a golden rule to give your chickens a two week treatment of terramycin every six Sep 19, 2023 · Lethargy is a common symptom in chickens that should be taken seriously. Jan 23, 2024 · Symptoms include sneezing, watery and foamy eye discharge, coughing, nasal discharge, facial swelling and head shaking. Normal Eating or Drinking Habit When a chicken shakes their head while eating or drinking, it is a normal habit for them to shake their heads to break up food. A diphtheritic membrane may form in the trachea, causing obstruction. Veterinarian's Assistant: I'll do all I can to help. I use pine shavings in the brooder. Dec 1, 2023 · A chicken sneeze is a loud expulsion of air, often accompanied by a violent head shake and sometimes closed eyes while the chicken is sneezing. I put the whole lot of them on a treatment of terramycin for two weeks. They are about 20 weeks old. The appearance of normal chicken faeces. These birds can have a runny nose and foamy running eyes. Crop Impaction When items like long grass or feathers get stuck in a chicken’s crop, it can cause neck stretching Sep 7, 2022 · Chicken shaking head and opening mouth: A variety of ailments and illnesses can affect your chickens. Jun 30, 2025 · Learn how to identify and treat upper respiratory infections in chickens, including common causes, symptoms, and effective treatment options to ensure the health and productivity of your flock. Supportive care with proper hydration and nutrition is essential Mar 31, 2012 · Coughing, sneezing, and shaking of the head to dislodge exudate plugs in the windpipe follow. It could be a sign of a respiratory infection, which is dangerous in chickens and requires early treatment. No other Jun 9, 2021 · So, when my dear Rosemary came out of the coop one spring morning sneezing, shaking her head, and making a gurgling sound when she breathed, I sprang into action. If you don’t know where to turn with poultry health questions, you can always call the USDA’s veterinary services hotline at 1-866-536-7593 for help. Recognizing these symptoms early and understanding the underlying causes is crucial to preventing the spread of infection. I have been giving her tetracycline for over a week and she shows no signs of improvement. Symptoms include labored breathing, nasal discharge, and lethargy. What do you see? Was it a one-time sneeze? Head shaking? Any nasal or eye discharge? How is the energy level? If you are seeing discharge, you will have considerations for the May 25, 2024 · So, why is my chicken sneezing? Chickens can sneeze due to dust and dander, as it helps them to clear their airways. Nov 21, 2019 · Infectious Laryngotracheitis (ILT): Highly contagious, acute infection caused by a Herpes virus; strains vary in virulence from highly infectious and usually fatal to low virulent strains that cause mild to asymptomatic infections; usually seen in adult chickens over 14 weeks of age. This can also sometimes be accompanied by lethargy or loss of appetite. May 16, 2025 · Learn how to identify and treat chicken respiratory problems, including common causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and preventative measures to keep your flock healthy. Haven't heard a cough, but mouth open all the time to breath Veterinarian's Assistant: And Another potential cause of head shaking in chickens is ear infection. Feb 16, 2011 · Respiratory disease in chickens often presents itself with one or more birds sneezing/snicking. Shaking Their Head Frequently Is your goose shaking their head all of the time? Does it look like they are trying to shake something off of their neck? This is one of the telltale signs that your goose is sick. The impact on egg production was May 16, 2025 · Learn how to identify and treat respiratory distress in chickens, including common causes, symptoms, and treatment options to help your flock breathe easy again. There might be internal issues in their nose, ear, and throat. Chickens are sneezing,shaking their heads and having difficulty breathing. Oct 11, 2022 · Respiratory symptoms in chickens can present as wheezing/whistling/rattling breath, watery or bubbly eyes, gasping, sneezing, blocked nares/nostrils, coughing, panting, head shaking (to try to clear the nares/nostrils), swollen face/eyes (indicating some swelling in the sinus passages), coughing blood, choking, and darkened comb/wattles (from not enough air). Caught early, respiratory problems may present as mild sneezing or whistling sounds as the chicken breathes. Apr 24, 2025 · My 16 day old Plymouth Rock chick has been sneezing, stretching out neck with her mouth open, and shaking her head. With the exception of a few strains of avian influenza, you can’t catch a cold from your chicken, and vice versa. Jul 2, 2012 · Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, head shaking, lethargy, discharge from the eyes and nostrils (sometimes bloody), and difficulty breathing. Seek veterinary treatment. May 29, 2023 · If your chicken has raspy breathing, sneezing, runny nostrils, and/or foamy eyes she could have a respiratory illness. Mortality is typically less than 15 percent. Sep 18, 2022 · In addition to the bird shaking its head and stretching its neck, other symptoms of gapeworm in chickens include: Coughing and sneezing (as a way to get the worms out of the trachea) Jun 2, 2017 · Same problem here with my EE. Apr 8, 2022 · Know how to prevent disease and when to act by learning these reasons why your chicken is losing weight and is lethargic. Mar 27, 2025 · Understand chicken respiratory health, causes of respiratory problems, symptoms to look out for, and effective solutions to manage and prevent respiratory issues in your flock. In laying flocks Wheezing and head shaking in chickens typically indicate respiratory infections or parasites. Always work in conjunction with your poultry vet to determine the best disease treatment approaches. When a sick chicken has their own space, they are unlikely to spread respiratory diseases to others while they are recovering. The disease is associated with nasal discharge, coughing, rales, gasping and sneezing. I Sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, and head shaking are additional symptoms. Jul 27, 2025 · Recognizing the signs of a sick chicken early on is crucial for prompt treatment and preventing the spread of disease throughout your flock. Nov 20, 2024 · One condition that often concerns both new and experienced chicken keepers is head shaking. Sep 9, 2025 · Learn how to spot and respond to respiratory problems in chickens. Except for natural sneezing, chickens get sick with viruses or bacteria that cause sneezing. If you find your chickens are sneezing, don't panic! Aug 13, 2025 · Knowing the Difference Between a Chicken Sneezing and a Dangerous Disease Respiratory infection in chickens is a serious concern, but many new flock owners tend to jump to conclusions every time a chicken sneezes. The sneezes she makes arent the loud or screeching ones but rather just her shaking her head and puffing air from her nostrils. Coughing, sneezing, and shaking of the head to extricate exudate plugs in the windpipe follow. The type and severity of the infection depends on the cause, the length of time of the infection, and the immune status of the bird. This behavior is an attempt to clear their airway, usually because there is a mucous or other fluid clogging it up. I am worried! She doesn't seem sick but is sneezing and shaking her head. Shaking head and opening mouth: When chicken gets respiratory problems or sickness, they face breathing issues. Vets who treat chickens regularly are familiar with which drugs work and which can be used in egg-producing chickens. Along with the other typical sick chicken symptoms, this chicken issue is not a fun one for the chicken, by any means. Lameness and wing droop should be investigated more closely. So, when you notice that your chickens are shaking their head continuously, take it seriously. Jul 28, 2025 · Sneezing in chickens can indicate infections, parasites, or environmental irritants. 3 days ago, I noticed one of the chicks sneezing constantly and everyone doing some head shaking or twitching. If your bird is shaking its head and opening its mouth then your bird may have gapeworm. Feb 2, 2024 · Key Symptoms of Chicken Respiratory Diseases Recognizing the symptoms of respiratory diseases in chickens is crucial for early intervention. Chickens head shake for communication, fear, happiness, wind and an overall feeding behavior. A chicken that wheezes while breathing with its beaks open is distressed. We've included here a quick Mar 14, 2023 · Knowing the reasons your chickens are sneezing, how to respond to the illnesses they may have, and how to prevent further illness in your chickens is important for all chicken owners. Mar 1, 2020 · This is the third time I've raised a flock of chickens and the first time I've ever dealt with an illness of any form. This article looks into why your chicken is shaking its head and walking backward. Next, look at their droppings. Posts are for general information, are not intended to substitute for informed professional advice (medical, legal Mar 29, 2025 · Head shaking and sneezing in cats can be caused by allergies, infections, and other factors. Aug 17, 2024 · Head shaking is a common behavior in chickens that can indicate various underlying issues. My chickens are sneezing, and shaking their heads Veterinarian's Assistant: Hi there. Not sure where to look? Check out our Healthy Hen Anatomy page to first learn the various parts of the chicken. Is this normal? Are my chicks okay? Infectious bronchitis (IB) is an acute, highly contagious respiratory disease of chickens, caused by a coronavirus. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary to treat the infection. Today, I’ll share my extensive knowledge about this condition, what causes it, and how you can help your feathered friends. The weather had been all over the place the past few days which is always tough on animals, but respiratory issues in chickens can be serious and contagious so I brought her in the house and placed her in our large dog kennel which Oct 23, 2015 · I have a golden laced cochin bantam hen that has been sneezing and shaking her head for a couple of weeks. Did you find out what it was or a treatment? Thanks! Feb 20, 2019 · Coughing, sneezing, and shaking of the head to dislodge exudate plugs in the windpipe follow. Veterinarian's Assistant: Have you spoken to a vet about the respiratory infection yet? How long has this been going on with the bird? Customer: Chicken: Black Ostralorp Veterinarian's Assistant: And what's the bird's name and age? Customer: We haven't. Generally, sneezing and shaking heads are considered the symptoms of bird flu or avian influenza. We’ll go over the most common causes of depression, listlessness, and lethargy in chickens one by one […] Head shaking can be seen in many respiratory infections in chickens. Typical signs of respiratory illness in chickens include sneezing, wheezing, coughing, and runny nose and eyes. Ear infections can be caused by a range of bacteria or fungi and may require antibiotics or antifungal medication for treatment. Oct 26, 2020 · The treatment depends heavily on what is causing your chicken to gasp for air. Chickens infested with gapeworm often display symptoms such as head shaking, gasping, coughing, rattling breaths, and visible distress during breathing. May 31, 2024 · I have a hen who has one frothy eye, wheezing, sneezing and head shaking. May 21, 2021 · Identifying a sick chicken can be difficult. In that case, they Feb 13, 2023 · Your poor chickens try everything from sneezing, coughing, and head shaking to get rid of these worms (19). Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the possible causes and appropriate treatments for this behavior. Other symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and watery eyes. Sep 24, 2007 · Two of my chicks is also "sneezing" and at times shaking their heads. It’s what tickles their nasal passages and makes them sneeze. Jan 19, 2022 · Have sick chicks? While many chick illnesses can be prevented by good sanitation methods, being able to recognize common illnesses is important. All chickens will shake their heads from time to time so it is how often it happens that is important. Isolation and Veterinary Care Isolate any chicken showing symptoms of respiratory illness to prevent spreading. If your dog has an allergy, the vet may recommend antihistamines or allergy shots. Lethargy and frequent head shaking in chickens can indicate respiratory issues, ear infections, or parasites. I could note a huge improvement after 8 days. Other signs of a respiratory infection in chickens include crackles when the bird is breathing, gasping when breathing, a change in the color of their skin, irritation at the bird’s eye, swelling of the eye, coughing, sneezing, diarrhea, and swelling of the face Apr 23, 2022 · You may be wondering, “ Why do chickens shake their heads? Is it normal behavior or something to be concerned about?” There are many different causes for chickens shaking their heads. Diagnosing the Cause While a few causes are most common, identifying the specific culprit requires an exam by a vet, preferably a poultry specialist. She is wheezing and sneezing and shaking her head. Aug 17, 2024 · Chickens infested with gapeworm often display symptoms such as head shaking, gasping, coughing, rattling breaths, and visible distress during breathing. Does this wheezing happen all the time or only sometimes? Does the chicken have a cough as well? Customer: She's had the cough for a week now, it's pretty constant. None of the other chicks are sneezing If your bird is coughing and gasping, it could be a sneaky little worm. If your chicken is gasping because of a bacterial infection, you should administer the appropriate antibiotics. Treatment involves isolating the bird, maintaining clean living conditions, and consulting a vet for possible antibiotics or antiparasitic medications. Does anyone know anything about gape worm ie" symptoms, treatments. She Symptoms: Sneezing, coughing, snoring, discharge from nose and eyes, no egg laying. She is my favorite bird I have. Quarantine the affected chicken and consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment options. I am worried she has some type of respiratory infection, but I don’t see any discharge anywhere. At times the worms grow big enough and they can be seen in the throat of the birds. We list all possible infections that result in gurgling sounds. Learn what it means if your chicken is sneezing, common causes, and effective treatments to keep your flock healthy. Jan 3, 2022 · Some other symptoms include sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, and head shaking. Here's What to Do". Rapid or labored breathing is a clear sign that something is wrong and the chicken is struggling to get oxygen. Jul 25, 2018 · This is usually a normal behavior in chickens, but other causes can be lice or mites crawling around their eyes, ears or heads, causing the head shaking. I've had chickens with upper respiratory infections but they were congested at the same time as sneezing and shaking their heads. There's now even an Audible version! It lists the typical symptoms and treatment for common chicken diseases and Feb 16, 2024 · The treatment for your dog’s sneezing and head shaking will depend on the underlying cause. Turkeys and chicken can be affected. If ignored, this can lead to catching a common respiratory disease. bopz hqcgai ldpnb ldjw xkrwjy oxvvax zls revqxb srtla weloxm