Chicken diseases are a constant concern. They can spread to chickens through droppings, dirty bedding, and an untidy coop. However, you can prevent these issues with frequent care.
Proper nutrition will help build immunity in chickens. Clean litter bases should also go side by side. This article will discuss why cleaning a chicken coop is paramount and give some tips for preventing diseases.
Why is a Clean and Dry Coop Important?
Chickens defecate a lot, littering the coop. These droppings contain nitrogen, which can break down into ammonia. Therefore, consistent exposure causes severe respiratory issues such as coughing and sneezing.
That is to say: a dirty coop doesn’t only pose health risks to your chickens but also to yours. Hence, an uncluttered and moisture-free environment should be a top priority.
Disease prevention
Likewise, a filthy and wet litter might just create the ideal environment for mite and fly infestations. Such insects carry bacteria such as Salmonella and deposit them on the food or water source of your chicks. Regular and thorough washing might prevent common chicken diseases such as:
- Avian Influenza
- Newcastle disease
- Coccidiosis
Odor management
Disinfectants such as bleach or white vinegar are often part of the coop cleaning routine. In addition, some individuals use air fresheners, especially vanilla-scented ones, to help keep the stinky smells of their poultry away.
Fresh air
Cleaning the coop reduces toxic ammonia and bacteria so that your fluffies can enjoy some fresh air.
How to Maintain the Coop
Staying ahead of the game when it comes to maintaining the coop, and keeping it squeaky-clean and as dry as possible can be achieved with small, intentional steps. Here are the ways to ensure your feathered pets have a good space:
Remove droppings
Chickens are messy. So it’s very easy for leftover feeds and poop to build up, paving the way for bacteria. Make sure to pick out droppings from high-traffic areas, especially where they eat (the feeders) and rest (the perches).
Collect eggs
A broken egg in the coop creates a mess and can lead to an infestation of pests. If your chicken lays eggs, try to collect eggs from the nest boxes consistently (at least every day).
Change beddings
Clean sleeping quarters are essential to keeping the coop clean and free from pollution. When cleaning the beddings, be sure to replace them regularly. Consider bedding that absorbs the moisture and doesn’t harm your chickens’ health.
To reduce the occurrence of chicken diseases, you can use:
- Sand
- Chopped straw
- Hemp
- Shredded paper
By doing so, your chickens can happily breathe.
Disinfect with natural cleaning products
Remember, just like humans, chickens don’t tolerate harsh chemicals. When cleaning the coop, use natural washing products, such as white vinegar and lime. They disinfect well without compromising the well-being of your chickens.
Don’t forget to scrub the walls, nesting boxes, and waterers as often as possible. Always ensure the surface is arid before introducing any chickens.
How to Keep Your Little Ones Safe from Chicken Diseases
Preventing bacteria is ultimately better than treating them. Here are some tips to help you with this:
Always wash your hands
So why not wash your hands using running water and dish soap before and after you handle your chickens? You can even install a hand sanitizer dispenser near the coop. Doing this will keep chicken diseases at bay.
Isolate sick chickens
Disease spreads more rapidly among chickens. Isolating sick chickens will improve recovery and prevent the disease from spreading to other birds. You should treat the entire flock, even if isolated, to eliminate the disease.
Limit exposure to outside birds
Don’t visit other places where chickens live. Also, ensure that other people who keep birds don’t interact with your flock. You can achieve this by keeping your babies in an enclosed coop.
Choose a nutritious feed
Chickens require water, calcium, protein, and vitamins A, D, and B to be healthy. This combination will improve your chickens’ immune system.
Note that the current age of your chickens determines the types of nutrients they need. Therefore, it’s best to select feeds specific to their life stage.
When in doubt, choose from Chicken Products specific to the ages of your babies.
Warning Signs of Chicken Diseases
First, you should always look out for unusual things about your chickens. If you catch one early, it can keep it from spreading. In the meantime, check out the following symptoms:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Fluffed feathers
- Discolored eggs
- Bloody diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Nasal discharge
- Foul-smelling droppings.
If you notice any of these signs, please call your vet. They can determine what the disease is and its cure.
Conclusion: Protect your birds from chicken diseases with preventative health practices
Consistency is the number one concept in caring for your birds and keeping them free from chicken diseases. You only need to establish and follow standard health practices such as disinfecting the coop, changing the bedding, and feeding them healthy food.
It’s important to remember that how well you clean up can impact the health of your chickens. Always wash your hands with soap and water before or after entering to roam with the flock.
Disclaimer:
We are not veterinarians, and none of our information should be construed as veterinary advice.
Before adding any new product, please consult your exotic veterinarian. If your pet is acting unwell and you have concerns for their well being, please contact your vet immediately.
