Dying Chickens!!!!

[Anonymous]

Well it started about a month ago, one of my chickens lost the use of her wings she waddled around like a penguin for a few days then died. Then one of the younger ones lost the use of one leg then the other seperated her gave her antibiatic local feed store had some but to no avail. then last week two more started limping then kind of dragging its leg. I have turkeys and none of them evr come down with it dont know if that helps or not, I would appreciate any help!!

 

[pebojuno]

Hi, I'm pretty much a novice but had a similar problem with one of my chickens- it's on an earlier post, and when researching what was wrong with her I read about Marek's disease- starts with paralysis of legs, and spreads- could it be this? Google it and have a look to see if the symptoms sound right- I know that it spreads quickly but not sure if turkeys get it? Also, day olds can be vaccinated against it so if yours have been it rules it out? Sorry for not being too clear / helpful! - Nicky

 

[snifter]

I'd read up on Mareks as your first port of call and if it could possibly be this then ensure you separate ill birds from the flock asap (as you should do when any bird is apparently unwell as a precaution).

If it is Mareks then there is no cure. Best to cull birds if they are badly stricken with it. Birds can be vaccinated against it iirc but my feeling (and many others I've read) is that its better to breed stock that become resilient to it rather than vaccinate).

 

[Tim]

Sounds like it could well be Mareks. Hard to definitely say though without testing. Your vet might be able to help with testing your flock...

Tim