Fowl Cholera can be contracted when the flock is exposed to wild animals that are infected, or from surfaces that are contaminated with the bacteria.
- At risk:
- Chickens over 4 months of age
- Symptoms:
- Green or yellow, watery droppings
- Darkened color of head or waddle
- Swollen joints
- Cause:
- Contact with infected chickens, birds, raccoons, rats or other similar animals
- Contact with items like equipment that has come in contact with infected animals
- Treatment:
- There is no treatment to save an infected chicken
- You must immediately destroy all infected birds
- Fowl Cholera Prevention:
- There is a vaccine available – check with vet or state department of agriculture
- Avoid contact with other flocks
- Quarantine birds after shows before re-introducing into the larger flock
For detailed information on other common ailments, see related posts below.