Chickens are a relatively hearty, low-maintenance pet that can live for several years without getting ill or injured. However, like any animal, they are susceptible to disease. It’s important to keep an eye on your flock to detect illness as soon as possible to prevent the potentially contagious disease from spreading. Here are four signs it may be time to take your chicken to a bird veterinarian. 

4 Symptoms of a Sick Chicken 

1. Behavioral Changes

Healthy chickens are active. While they may rest in their roost, they’ll eagerly come out of the coop in the morning, scratch the dirt, and peck around for food. A sick chicken may stay in the roost and may be lethargic and uninterested in their usual activities. 

2. Physical Appearance

When a chicken is sick, their physical appearance can also reveal it. When healthy, their feathers will be preened and glossy. Their comb and wattles should be vibrant and waxy-looking, and their eyes will be bright and clear. If the feathers are lackluster or there are bald patches, it may indicate parasites or another illness. 

3. Communication

Chickens are communicative creatures. Typically, they’ll talk amongst themselves and may make excited noises at mealtime. They may change their tone, however, if they are sick or in danger.

Other birds may also alert you if one of the flock is hurt by making a different sound, similar to the sound that they would make if they saw a predator.

Sick birds may also cough, breathe slowly, or make rasping sounds when breathing, all of which may be signs of serious illness. In this case, isolate the sick chicken from the others and take them to a bird veterinarian immediately. 

4. Loss of Appetite

Healthy birds should be excited to eat and may chase others away to get at a treat. If yours doesn’t seem eager for food, it is likely a sign of illness. You may also notice they’ve lost weight. Older birds should maintain their weight, but younger chickens can grow substantially in the first six months. After this, they may still gain weight gradually for some time. Decreased weight at any age typically indicates illness or a parasitic infection.  

If you need a bird veterinarian in the Lincoln, NE, area, turn to A-4 Animal Hospital. This veterinary clinic provides a broad range of services for various animals, from chickens and other avian species to cats, dogs, and reptiles. Their compassionate team has years of experience and will provide your pet with the utmost care. Call (402) 475-2282 to schedule an appointment with a bird veterinarian or visit the website to learn more about the veterinary hospital and all the ways they can help you.