My chicken is sneezing. What could be wrong and what should I do?

Hi, I’m sorry to hear about your rooster. Based on what you’ve described, an upper respiratory infection seems likely (mycoplasma, avian influenza, many other diseases could be at play). However, without examining him and maybe running some tests, I can’t say for sure. I would caution the use of antibiotics without he guidance of a veterinarian (in some cases depending on the medication this is even illegal in a food animal), as some can leave dangerous residues in meat or eggs, or if the wrong antibiotic is used, bacterial resistance can occur. Also, if the underlying cause isn’t bacterial, then the antibiotics won’t do anything while a more effective treatment has been missed. Therefore, I would recommend having a veterinarian examine him and they can prescribe the appropriate medications. Additionally, they can examine any other chickens you may have, since the respiratory issue and mites could possibly be spread to other birds and the environment. I am trained in traditional veterinary medicine, and therefore cannot recommend any home made remedy. I would worry that anything short of a prescription antibiotic and antiparasitic medication would not work. Best of luck to you!

She may have a respiratory infection. This can be a bacterial, fungal or air sac mite infection. Clarabelle would need to be physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating domestic fowl for confirmation. Antibiotics may be indicated. In the meantime, keep her warm and separated from the flock if you have more chickens. placing her in a steamy bathroom, NOT in the shower, may help loosen up and congestion. Keep her as stress free as possible until she sees the vet.

If you've got them on any bedding such as pine shavings, it may be kicking up some dust and causing them to sneeze. Dust and pollen may also cause some minor sneezing in young birds. If they are otherwise eating and healthy, you may want to try a substrate change to see if the sneezing reduces. If they do start to have any discharge, or are not eating or drinking properly, then having them checked out from a vet for more serious illness is best.

This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or eventually to a chronic rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Hi there! It sounds like Troy might be dealing with an upper respiratory infection with his sneezing, deeper breathing, and inability to cope with exercise well. Unfortunately, this would require antibiotics to treat. I would recommend calling and finding a veterinarian that treats birds. They will likely recommend an x-ray to ensure that the infection has not progressed to a severe pneumonia before treating. In the meantime, warm and humid air is easier to breathe when the respiratory tract is inflamed. You can turn on a warm shower and bring him into the bathroom for 5-10 minutes at a time. Closely watch his eating, drinking, and elimination habits during this time as well, as sick birds may also stop eating and become dehydrated. I hope this helps! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hi. Girl could have an infection or inflammation in her upper respiratory tract, or could simply be responding to the dry air in most homes this time of year with the heat on. Try taking into the bathroom when the shower is going for a little steam therapy or add a humidifier near her cage. If that doesn’t help, then a trip to the vet is warranted to make sure there isn’t anything more serious going on.

Thanks for reaching out and including a photo. No antibiotic will treat all bacterial infections. Not all respiratory problems are bacterial, let alone infectious. There are several viral diseases possible, and many non-infectious problems. Inhaled toxins or foreign bodies can cause respiratory problems. An enlarged liver, spleen or other internal organs can not allow chickens to take a deep breathe. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Is the abdomen distended? Ascites (fluid accumulation) can be due to liver, kidney, ovarian and other problems. Draining the fluid (through a veterinary visit) can relieve symptoms but is probably not a cure. Good luck.