A complete guide to caring for chickens and their health

Chickens are one of the most popular farm animals in Australia, providing not only fresh eggs but also companionship, natural pest control, and even entertainment. If you’re considering raising chickens, it’s essential to understand how to properly care for them, ensuring their health and wellbeing. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything from housing, feeding, health care, common illnesses, and their treatment. Let’s take a holistic approach and look at the ways you can ensure your chickens are happy and healthy!

Predator and weather proof housing for chickens

In Australia, chickens are vulnerable to a wide range of predators. These can include foxes, feral dogs, snakes, and even larger birds of prey like hawks and eagles. Having a strong, secure coop is vital for keeping your chickens safe, especially during the night when they are most vulnerable. The right housing also protects your flock from extreme Australian weather conditions.

Designing chicken housing:

Strong materials: Use sturdy materials like welded wire mesh or aviary wire (not just chicken wire, which is easy for predators to tear through). Ensure the mesh is buried underground to prevent digging predators like foxes from getting in.
Secure doors and windows: Make sure that all doors and windows are securely closed and lockable at night. Hinged doors should have latches or padlocks that are predator-proof.
Ventilation: While security is important, chickens also need proper airflow. Install ventilation holes that are covered by mesh to prevent predators from entering but allow fresh air inside the coop. Just ensure there are no drafts during cold or windy weather.
Insulation: In colder climates, insulating the coop can help regulate the temperature. Use materials such as foam, straw, or hay to line the walls. In hot climates, it’s equally important to provide shade and keep the coop cool. You can achieve this by painting the coop with light-coloured paint and ensuring adequate airflow. We do not recommend the use of heat lamps in coops in cold weather as they are an extreme fire hazard. Chickens are homeothermic and can regulate their body temperature pretty well, primarily using their feathers for insulation. Ensuring their coop is draft free will ensure they are kept warm enough during winter.
Roofing: Ensure the roof is weather-resistant, such as using metal roofing or shingles. Make sure the roof is sloped to prevent water from pooling and to ensure proper drainage. Avoid using wire roofing, as larger predators can pull chickens through the gaps.
Dry bedding: Always use dry bedding such as straw, wood shavings, pine chips or sugar cane mulch to keep the chickens comfortable and warm in cold weather. In hot weather, change bedding frequently to maintain cleanliness and reduce the risk of moisture buildup, which can harbour bacteria.
Adequate enclosure size and space: Ensure your chickens have enough space to roam freely, even within a protected enclosure. A cramped space can lead to stress and potential behavioural issues. Many commercial chicken coops are very small and not suitable for housing chickens safely or with adequate space. A general rule of thumb is to provide at least 1-2 square meters per chicken in their outdoor space. Ensure they have access to both shaded and sunny areas.

Chicken Nesting and Laying Boxes

Providing the right nesting boxes is an essential part of creating a comfortable and productive environment for your hens. Nest boxes give hens a safe, quiet space to lay eggs, and a good setup encourages them to lay consistently.

What to Look for in Nesting Boxes

Size and space:
Each nesting box should be about 30cm x 30cm in size, which is ideal for most standard-sized hens. You can provide larger boxes for bigger breeds or multiple hens. However, chickens tend to prefer private, quiet spaces, so avoid overcrowding boxes. The general rule is one box for every 3-4 hens. However, in my experience they do tend to favour the same box at times.
Location in the coop:
Place nesting boxes in a quiet, calm corner of the coop where hens can feel secure and undisturbed while laying. Avoid areas with heavy traffic or where roosters or aggressive hens might disturb them. Elevate the boxes off the ground to prevent bedding from getting dirty or wet.
Materials for nesting boxes:
Wooden boxes are a popular choice as they’re durable and easy to build. They are more prone to parasite infestation though. You can also use plastic bins or enclosed cat litter boxes for an easier to clean alternative. Lining the box with clean bedding such as straw, hay, or wood shavings will create a soft and comfortable surface for hens to lay their eggs. Avoid using materials that can easily mould or become damp, as this could cause health issues for your chickens.
Lighting:
Make sure the area around the nesting boxes is dim, as hens prefer to lay in a darker space. If the coop is too brightly lit, hens may be deterred from laying eggs in the boxes. Some ambient natural light is beneficial, so the boxes should be placed where they receive some natural daylight but are still out of direct sunlight.
Easy access for collection:
Nest boxes should be easily accessible for you to collect eggs. Ideally, the boxes should be located low enough for you to reach easily without disturbing the hens too much. Many chicken keepers opt for front-opening boxes or design their coops with external access so you can collect eggs without entering the coop. Roll away nest boxes are also a great option for those pesky egg eaters.
Cleanliness:
Keep the nesting boxes clean and dry to prevent diseases and encourage hens to use them. Collect eggs daily to avoid them getting dirty or broken. Replace the bedding as needed to maintain cleanliness. If an egg breaks, clean the box thoroughly with a mild disinfectant to prevent attracting pests or bacteria.

Encouraging Hens to Use Nesting Boxes

Training young hens:
If you have new layers, place them in the nesting boxes as soon as they start showing signs of laying. You can also use fake eggs (like ceramic or plastic eggs) in the nesting boxes to show hens where to lay. This can encourage them to lay in the correct spot instead of on the ground.
Comfortable environment:
Hens are more likely to use the nesting boxes if they feel comfortable and safe. Make sure the coop is well-ventilated, and ensure they have adequate space, food, and water. Overcrowding or stressful conditions can lead hens to lay in undesirable places.
Providing a routine:
Chickens are creatures of habit. Maintaining a consistent feeding and lighting schedule can help establish a routine where hens expect to lay their eggs at certain times of the day.

Egg Quality

The quality of your chickens’ eggs can be influenced by several factors, including their diet, environment, and overall health. We will cover more on egg related illnesses at the end of this blog post. Here are a few tips to help improve egg quality:

Provide a balanced diet:
A well-balanced diet is essential for producing high-quality eggs. Make sure your hens have access to a nutritious layer feed that’s rich in protein, calcium, and essential vitamins and minerals. Adding oyster shell or calcium supplements to their diet helps strengthen eggshells. Fresh greens, grains, and occasional treats like mealworms can also enhance egg quality.
Ensure access to clean water:
Fresh, clean water is crucial for egg production. Dehydration can cause poor-quality eggs, including soft shells or a lack of eggs altogether. Change the water daily and ensure the chickens have access at all times.
Maintain a clean and stress-free environment:
Stress can negatively affect egg production and quality. Keep your chickens’ living space clean, dry, and free from disturbances. Ensure they have plenty of space to move around and are not overcrowded.
Provide proper lighting:
Hens need at least 14-16 hours of light per day to maintain consistent egg production. During the shorter days of winter, you may need to supplement natural light with artificial lighting to keep their laying schedule regular.
Health maintenance:
Regularly check for parasites, diseases, or injuries that could affect egg production. Healthy hens are more likely to produce high-quality eggs. Keeping up with vaccinations and deworming will help prevent health issues that can impact egg quality.

During moulting, hens may temporarily stop laying eggs as they shed old feathers and grow new ones. While this process is natural, it can result in a decrease in egg production for a period of time. Ensuring that your hens have a nutritious diet rich in protein during moulting will help them regain their strength and resume egg production faster.

By focusing on their nutrition, hydration, environment, and health, you can improve the overall quality of the eggs your chickens lay, ensuring they are healthy, strong, and full of nutrients.

Feeding chickens

Feeding chickens is an essential part of raising healthy birds. Chickens are omnivores and enjoy a diverse diet of grains, seeds, vegetables, and insects.

Types of Feed:

Layer pellets: The most common type of feed for laying hens. These pellets are balanced with the right nutrients to support egg production, including calcium for strong eggshells. Younger chickens should be fed a pullet grower feed until they are at the age of laying.
Grain mixes: A mix of grains such as corn, wheat, oats, and barley is great for chickens, but it should be supplemented with additional nutrients to ensure they’re getting a balanced diet. A pelleted feed is preferable if you wish to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need, as some chickens will just pick out their favourite bits from grain mixes.
Kitchen scraps and vegetables: Chickens love greens. Offering kitchen scraps like vegetable peels, fruit (no citrus), egg shells, or cooked rice. Safe vegetable for chickens include beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, carrots, cauliflower, corn, cucumbers, peas, tomatoes and squash. However, avoid giving them anything that’s too salty, sweet, or contains harmful substances like onions.
Free-range foraging: If you allow your chickens to free-range, they’ll enjoy a natural diet of insects, seeds, and plants. This is excellent for their health, as it provides natural sources of protein.
Dried insects: In particular meal worms and soldier fly larvae, are a convenient and nutritious treat for chickens, supplementing their diet with protein and essential nutrients.

Types of Feeders:

Tube feeders: These feeders are simple to use and help to prevent waste by allowing chickens to feed at their own pace. They’re ideal for smaller flocks.
Hopper feeders: These feeders allow for larger quantities of feed to be stored and distributed gradually. They work well for larger flocks, minimising the need for constant refilling.
Trough feeders: A basic solution for larger groups but can lead to waste if chickens kick their feed out.
Treadle feeders: These are typically a galvanised sheet metal feed box with a covered lid that opens when a chicken stands on the treadle step.

Watering Chickens

Chickens need access to clean, fresh water at all times. Without water, their health will quickly decline.

Types of Waterers:

Nipple waterers: These are popular in Australia as they are more hygienic and help to minimise water spillage. The nipple design ensures that chickens peck at the water to release it.
Lubing cup drinkers: These cups attach to a bucket container and automatically refill with fresh water when the level drops.
Bell waterers: A traditional option, bell waterers are simple, with a bell-shaped reservoir that slowly refills with water as chickens drink.
Trough waterers: A basic solution for larger flocks, trough waterers allow chickens to drink freely from an open container. However, be cautious with using these around baby chicks as they can fall in and drown.

Make sure to clean water containers regularly to prevent bacteria growth. During hot summer months, always check that water levels are sufficient, and consider using a shaded area for the waterers to prevent the water from getting too hot.

Bucket style feeder and lubing cup drinker

Health Care for Chickens

A healthy chicken is a happy chicken. Routine health care is necessary to keep your flock in top condition. Below we will take a holistic approach in covering common chicken health care topics.

General Health Maintenance:

Regular flock checks: Check your chickens for signs of illness, injury, parasites or stress. Look for abnormal behaviours, droppings, or feather loss.
Feather and beak care: Chickens naturally moult and lose feathers, but if this happens excessively, it could be a sign of a nutritional deficiency. Trim their beaks if needed (be sure to consult a vet or expert for this).
Dust baths: Chickens love to take dust baths, which help them rid their feathers of parasites like mites and lice. Make sure they have access to dry, loose soil or sand to dig and bathe in. Add wood ash or limestone powder to the dust bath area to help dry out and kill remaining parasites.
Poultry vitamins: Adding poultry vitamins to the water is a great way to ensure your chickens receive essential nutrients, especially during periods of stress, illness, or moulting. Poultry vitamins help support overall health, improve immunity, and aid in faster recovery from sickness or injury. Simply follow the instructions on the vitamin supplement for proper dosage, and be sure to change the water daily to keep it fresh.
Cleanliness: Maintain a clean and dry coop to minimise the buildup of bacteria, parasites, pathogens and pests that can cause illness in chickens.
Biosecurity Measures: Limit flock exposure to wildlife, including wild birds and rodents. Clean, sanitise, and disinfect regularly. Quarantine new birds and sick birds. Keep dedicated footwear for the poultry area and wash/sanitise your hands after contact. Limit introducing new poultry into your flock or transmission between flocks.
Seek veterinary assistance if you have major concerns about the health of your flock.

Foods & supplements for health prevention:

Oats:
Oats are a great source of fiber and can help keep chickens’ digestive systems functioning properly. You can offer whole oats or oatmeal to your flock as a treat.
Pumpkin seeds:
These are natural dewormers and can help in preventing intestinal parasites. Simply grind them up and add them to your chickens’ feed.
Carrots & squash:
These veggies are rich in vitamin A, which supports immune function and overall health. They’re also packed with antioxidants.
Garlic:
Garlic is naturally antimicrobial and can help keep parasites at bay. It can also boost the immune system and support respiratory health. Crush a clove or two and mix it in with your chickens’ feed or water.
Yoghurt:
Yoghurt is a good source of probiotics, which help maintain healthy gut flora and boost digestion. Offering small amounts of plain, unsweetened yogurt such as greek yoghurt can be beneficial, especially if your chickens experience digestive issues.
Calcium Supplements (egg shells, oyster shell grit or limestone flour):
Chickens, especially laying hens, need extra calcium to support strong eggshells. Offering free-choice calcium sources like crushed egg shells, oyster shell grit or limestone flour (Aglime) is an effective way to ensure they get the required amount. You can sprinkle it over their feed, around their dusting areas or leave it in a separate container for them to access as needed.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV):
Adding a small amount of ACV to your chickens’ drinking water (about 1 tablespoon per litre) can promote digestive health, balance gut bacteria, and prevent respiratory infections. It’s also believed to help with parasite control. Use with caution though excessive or inappropriate use can lead to digestive upset, irritation, and even damage to their mucous membranes, so it’s crucial to use it in moderation.
Electrolyte Supplements:
Electrolyte supplements are especially useful during periods of stress (like extreme heat, transportation, or illness). They help replenish lost minerals, maintain hydration, and support overall health. You can add an electrolyte solution to your chickens’ water or mix it into their feed to support their hydration and energy levels.
Herbal Teas:
Chicken owners sometimes use herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint to soothe digestive upset or stress. You can steep the herbs and offer the cooled liquid in their water.
Prebiotics:
Prebiotic supplements help maintain a healthy gut environment by supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria, which can outcompete harmful bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome, fostered by prebiotics, can improve the absorption of nutrients from the food the chickens eat.

Please note: Although commonly suggested, we do not recommend the use of Diatomaceous Earth (DE) for chickens as it is a respiratory hazard to chickens when breathed in. It can cause lung tissue scaring which impaires respiration.

Herbs for Health:

Oregano:
Oregano has strong antimicrobial properties and can help prevent bacterial infections. It’s also believed to improve egg production. Fresh oregano leaves or dried oregano can be added to the feed or mixed with water.
Thyme:
Thyme is known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It can help prevent respiratory infections and is also thought to help with digestion.
Lavender:
Lavender helps reduce stress, which can support overall health and egg production. It can be used in chicken coops to create a calm environment or mixed with their bedding.
Mint:
Mint is a refreshing herb that has antimicrobial properties and can help with digestion, especially in the hot months. Fresh mint leaves can be sprinkled in their food or water, or used in their bedding to keep them cool and comfortable. Mint is also a natural repellent against mice and insects.
Rosemary:
Rosemary is a powerful herb that can help support respiratory health and reduce inflammation. It also has antioxidant properties, which can support the immune system. Rosemary can be added fresh or dried to the feed or used in the coop to freshen the air.
Coriander (Cilantro):
Coriander is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. It helps with digestion and can have a calming effect on chickens. Offering fresh coriander leaves in the diet or mixing them in their water can promote general well-being and keep them relaxed.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory herb with antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It helps boost the immune system and can aid in digestion. Turmeric also supports liver function and can help with joint health. A small amount of turmeric (1/2 teaspoon) can be mixed into your chickens’ feed to boost overall health and prevent common ailments.

Chicken diseases and illnesses

Chickens, like any other animals, are susceptible to various diseases and parasites. Early detection and treatment are key to ensuring your chickens stay healthy.

If you suspect a notifiable disease in chickens in NSW Australia, immediately contact any of these services below. Search for similar available services outside of NSW Australia. Notifiable diseases in chickens include Newcastle disease and avian influenza. Land services vets may perform necropsy for other diseases such as Mareks disease.

NSW Department of Primary Industries: NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Ring the 24 hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888

You can also contact your Local Land Services district veterinarian. Land Services NSW

Common diseases and illnesses

We have refrained from using graphic imagery of chicken diseases and death on this website. For more detailed information and imagery please visit the Poultry Disease Guide on the ‘Poultry Site’ website.

Botulism

Cause: A bacterial infection caused by Clostridium botulinum, usually through ingestion of contaminated food, water, or decaying organic matter.
Symptoms: Weakness, paralysis, drooping wings, difficulty standing or walking, and inability to eat or drink.
Prevention: Keep chicken coops clean and dry.
Remove decaying food, dead animals, or standing water where bacteria can thrive.
Avoid feeding chickens spoiled or decomposed food. Clean up un-eaten food.
Treatment: There is no specific treatment for botulism, but early intervention with antibiotics or antitoxins may help.
Seek veterinary assistance immediately if botulism is suspected.

Fowl Pox

Cause: A viral infection spread by mosquitoes, other insects, or direct contact with infected birds.
Symptoms: Skin lesions or warts, typically around the face, comb, and wattles.
Infected birds may also exhibit respiratory signs such as nasal discharge or difficulty breathing. Lesions can sometimes block airways in very young birds resulting in death.
Prevention: Vaccination is available and recommended, particularly for young birds.
Reduce exposure to mosquitoes by keeping chickens indoors at dusk and dawn.
Keep living conditions clean and reduce insect infestations.
Treatment: There is no specific cure for Fowl Pox.
Supportive care includes providing soft food and clean water. Iodine may be applied to lesions.
In severe cases, you may need to cull infected birds to prevent spread.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

Cause: A highly contagious viral disease that can infect both wild and domestic birds. This is a notifiable disease.
Symptoms: Sudden death, respiratory distress, coughing, nasal discharge, swelling around the eyes, and diarrhea.
Reduced egg production or misshapen eggs.
Prevention: Avoid contact with wild birds, especially during migration seasons.
Quarantine new birds for at least two weeks before introducing them to your flock.
Maintain good biosecurity practices, such as disinfecting footwear and equipment.
Treatment: There is no effective treatment for Avian Influenza in chickens.
Infected birds are usually euthanised to prevent the spread of the virus.

Mycoplasmosis (Chronic Respiratory Disease)

Cause: A bacterial infection caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum.
Symptoms: Respiratory signs such as coughing, nasal discharge, and laboured breathing.
Reduced egg production and lethargy.
Prevention: Quarantine new birds before introducing them to the flock.
Keep your coop clean and well-ventilated.
Avoid overcrowding.
Treatment: Antibiotics like tylosin or tetracycline can help control the infection.
The disease is chronic, and treatment may not eradicate it completely.

Fowl Cholera

Cause: A bacterial infection caused by Pasteurella multocida, spread through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated water and food.
Symptoms: Sudden death, loss of appetite, nasal discharge, and swelling of the head and neck.
Diarrhea and discoloured combs or wattles.
Prevention: Vaccination is available and should be used for flocks at risk.
Keep coops and feeding areas clean to avoid contamination.
Treatment: Antibiotics (such as penicillin) can help treat the infection, but the disease may still prove fatal if not caught early.

Infectious Coryza

Cause: A bacterial infection caused by Avibacterium paragallinarum, affecting the respiratory system.
Symptoms: Swelling of the eyes, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing.
Lethargy and loss of appetite.
Prevention: Quarantine new birds before integrating them with the flock.
Practice good hygiene and sanitation.
Avoid overcrowding.
Treatment: Antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian can treat the infection.
Isolate infected birds from healthy ones to prevent spread.

Salmonella

Cause: A bacterial infection that can spread through contaminated food, water, or contact with infected faeces.
Symptoms: Diarrhea, lethargy, and reduced appetite.
In severe cases, fever and death.
Prevention: Ensure the living environment is clean and free of contamination.
Practice proper biosecurity to prevent exposure to infected birds.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling birds, eggs, or equipment.
Vaccinate chickens where possible.
Treatment: Antibiotics can help treat the infection, but some strains of Salmonella are resistant to certain treatments.
Regularly clean food and water containers to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Marek’s Disease

Cause: A viral disease caused by the Marek’s disease virus (MDV), affecting the nervous system and immune system.
Symptoms:
Paralysis, loss of balance, drooping wings, and tumours in various organs.
The bird may become immobile or unable to stand.
Prevention: Vaccinate chicks at a very young age (day-old chicks).
Avoid contact with wild birds.
Keep the environment clean and avoid overcrowding.
Treatment: There is no cure for Marek’s disease, and infected birds usually need to be euthanised.
Preventative vaccination is the best method of control.

Newcastle Disease

Cause: A viral infection that affects many bird species, often spread through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated equipment. This is a notifiable disease.
Symptoms: Sudden death, respiratory distress, neck twisting, paralysis, and diarrhea.
Swelling of the head, neck, and eyes.
Prevention: Vaccinate birds against Newcastle disease.
Strict biosecurity practices, especially when handling new or wild birds.
Quarantine sick birds immediately.
Treatment: There is no cure for Newcastle Disease.
Infected birds are usually euthanised to prevent the spread of the virus.

Avian Leukosis

Cause: A viral disease caused by the avian leukosis virus (ALV), leading to tumours and immune system suppression.
Symptoms: Swelling of the abdomen, weight loss, pale comb, and poor egg production.
Prevention: Avoid breeding from infected birds. Isolate new or sick birds immediately.
Treatment: There is no cure for avian leukosis, and infected birds should be culled to prevent spread.

Bumblefoot

Cause: A bacterial infection, often due to injury to the footpads, rough perches, or unsanitary conditions.
Symptoms: Swelling, redness, or abscesses on the foot, often in the form of a hard lump on the footpad.
Lameness or difficulty walking.
Prevention: Provide smooth, clean surfaces for chickens to walk on and comfortable, clean perches.
Keep bedding dry and change it regularly.
Treatment: Treatment may involve soaking the affected foot in an antiseptic solution.
If an abscess is present, it may need to be drained.
In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the infection.

Coccidiosis

Cause: A parasitic infection caused by the protozoan Eimeria, affecting the digestive system of chickens.
Symptoms: Bloody diarrhea, lethargy, and weight loss.
Reduced appetite and growth.
Prevention: Keep coops dry and clean to prevent parasite buildup.
Avoid overcrowding, which increases the risk of transmission.
Use coccidiostats in feed or water for chicks to help prevent infection.
Treatment: Coccidiostats or anti-coccidial medications can treat the infection.
In severe cases, additional antibiotics may be needed to prevent secondary infections.

Parasites in Chickens

Chickens are commonly affected by a variety of internal and external parasites, which can cause a range of health issues.

External Parasites

Mites and Lice

Symptoms: Itching, feather loss, irritation, and sometimes anaemia if the infestation is severe.
Prevention: Regularly inspect chickens for signs of mites and lice.
Maintain a clean coop, bedding, and roosting areas.
Use commercial parasite prevention sprays or lice-control powders that are safe for chickens.
Treatment: Use approved insecticidal treatments (e.g., Permethrin sprays, Ivermectin).
Clean and disinfect the coop thoroughly, including dusting it with limestone flour (aglime) to kill any remaining mites or lice.

Scaly Leg Mites

Symptoms: Crusty, scaly, and thickened legs and feet, causing lameness or discomfort.
Prevention: Keep the coop clean and ensure chickens’ living areas are dry.
Treatment: Treat affected birds with an ointment, such as petroleum jelly, or use a mite-specific treatment.
Regularly dip their legs in warm soapy water to remove scaly buildup.
Ivermectin cattle pour on may also be used as a topical treatment.

Internal Parasites

Worms (Roundworms, Tapeworms, Gapeworm etc.)

Symptoms: Diarrhea, weight loss, lethargy, poor feather condition, open mouth breathing.
Prevention: Keep the coop clean and avoid overcrowding.
Rotate grazing areas to reduce exposure to contaminated ground.
Treatment: Deworming treatments (e.g. praziquantel) are available, either in feed or water.
Consult a vet for the appropriate treatment and dosage.

Egg-Related Illnesses

Egg Binding

Symptoms: A hen that is egg-bound will often exhibit signs of distress, such as lethargy, a lack of appetite, straining, or even standing with her tail held high. You might notice her vent is swollen or that she is straining to lay an egg without success.
Prevention: Ensure that your hens are receiving adequate calcium and vitamin D, which are crucial for egg production. Providing plenty of space, clean bedding, and a stress-free environment also helps.
Treatment: Gently lubricating the vent area with oil or using warm water baths to relax the muscles can help dislodge the stuck egg. In severe cases, a veterinarian may need to assist or provide medication.

Soft-Shelled Eggs

Symptoms:Hens laying soft or thin-shelled eggs may have eggs that break easily, or you may find eggs with no shells at all.
Prevention: Ensure hens are getting enough calcium in their diet (like crushed oyster shells) and vitamin D to help with proper shell formation. Ensure they are fed a balanced diet to support their egg-laying health.
Treatment: If soft-shelled eggs persist, increase calcium intake and check the health of your hens. Supplementing with a special laying feed or additional calcium sources can help.

Egg Peritonitis

Symptoms: This condition occurs when the egg yolk escapes from the reproductive tract and causes an infection. Symptoms include swelling in the abdomen, lethargy, and a loss of appetite. A hen may also appear to be in pain.
Prevention: Maintain proper flock health and provide a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Avoid overbreeding and excessive egg production, which can stress the hens.
Treatment: This requires veterinary care, as antibiotics and possible surgery may be needed to address the infection and any internal damage.

Internal Laying

Symptoms: When a hen lays eggs internally instead of through the vent, it can cause serious internal damage. You may notice swelling in the abdomen, lethargy, and abnormal behaviour.
Prevention: Proper nutrition, especially a good layer feed, helps ensure healthy reproductive function. Limiting breeding and ensuring your chickens are not overly stressed can also help.
Treatment: Treatment usually involves veterinary intervention, including the possible removal of the egg or surgery if necessary.

Lash Egg

Symptoms: Lash eggs are abnormal, often rubbery, and filled with pus-like material. They are a sign of a reproductive tract infection, such as salpingitis. You may notice swelling or bulging near the hen’s vent, along with changes in behaviour, such as lethargy or reduced egg production.
Prevention: Prevent lash eggs by maintaining proper nutrition, managing stress, and providing a clean environment. Regular health checks can also help catch issues early before they develop into more severe infections.
Treatment: Lash eggs are usually associated with infection, so treatment involves antibiotics, often prescribed by a vet. In severe cases, surgery to remove infected tissue or the egg may be required.

Caring for chickens in Australia involves more than just providing food and water. To keep your flock happy, healthy, and productive, you need to ensure they have predator and weather proof housing, proper nutrition, and regular health care. Understanding common illnesses is equally important to ensure your chickens thrive.

With the right setup, attention to detail, and knowledge about diseases and their treatments, raising chickens in Australia can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re in a rural area or a suburban backyard, these tips will help you create a safe and healthy environment for your feathered friends.

IMPORTANT: The information in the article is not intended to be used as a substitute for veterinary advice, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The information provided on the website is for educational and informational purposes only. Please always seek medical treatment from a veterinarian if you have concerns about your pet’s health.

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