Where does gapeworm come from?
Blockage of the bronchi and trachea with worms and mucus will cause infected birds to gasp for air. They stretch out their necks, open their mouths and gasp for air producing a hissing noise as they do so. This “gaping” posture has given rise to the common term “gapeworm” to describe Syngamus trachea.
What does it mean when a chicken is breathing with its mouth open?
If you notice one or more of your chickens have labored breathing or are breathing with their mouths open it’s a warning sign that something is up. The less impactful causes are more common than serious illnesses, but you should still do something asap to ensure your chooks are happy and healthy.
Why does my chicken have a respiratory problem?
Any concentrations of natural or unnatural gasses, mites, parasites, fungus or bacteria that can live in the respiratory system may harm a flock if not corrected quickly. Many chicken respiratory problems will be prevented just by keeping a clean coop well ventilated, but not drafty.
What should I do about my chickens breathing problems?
Hopefully your chickens have access to the outdoors, where they can spend much of the day breathing fresh air, sunning themselves and foraging for healthy natural foods. Access to clean water in regularly scrubbed containers will cut down on transmission of disease and build-up of potentially dangerous bacteria.
What happens if you put chemicals in a chicken coop?
A toxic build-up of fumes from droppings or chemicals in the coop can irritate delicate tissues in a chicken breathing and respiratory system. Irritation can quickly turn to infection and respiratory congestion and distress.
If you notice one or more of your chickens have labored breathing or are breathing with their mouths open it’s a warning sign that something is up. The less impactful causes are more common than serious illnesses, but you should still do something asap to ensure your chooks are happy and healthy.
Hopefully your chickens have access to the outdoors, where they can spend much of the day breathing fresh air, sunning themselves and foraging for healthy natural foods. Access to clean water in regularly scrubbed containers will cut down on transmission of disease and build-up of potentially dangerous bacteria.
Any concentrations of natural or unnatural gasses, mites, parasites, fungus or bacteria that can live in the respiratory system may harm a flock if not corrected quickly. Many chicken respiratory problems will be prevented just by keeping a clean coop well ventilated, but not drafty.
A toxic build-up of fumes from droppings or chemicals in the coop can irritate delicate tissues in a chicken breathing and respiratory system. Irritation can quickly turn to infection and respiratory congestion and distress.