Provide chickens with electrolytes, probiotics, and plain yogurt, and ensure they have access to clean water to help treat diarrhea effectively.
Chicken diarrhea is a common issue that can signal underlying health problems. While occasional loose droppings are normal, persistent diarrhea requires attention. This guide covers causes, treatments, and prevention methods to keep your flock healthy.
Identifying Chicken Diarrhea
Not all loose droppings indicate diarrhea. Chickens naturally produce two types of feces:
- Normal droppings: Firm with white urate cap (chickens excrete urine as urates)
- Cecal droppings: Sticky, smelly brown paste (normal 1-2 times daily)
True diarrhea appears as:
- Watery, unformed droppings
- Consistently dirty vent feathers
- Foul-smelling waste
- Stained eggs
When to Worry
Isolate chickens showing diarrhea plus these symptoms:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Blood in droppings
Common Causes of Chicken Diarrhea
1. Dietary Issues
Sudden feed changes or spoiled food often cause digestive upset. Moldy feed is particularly dangerous.
2. Heat Stress
Chickens pant and drink excessively in hot weather, leading to watery droppings. Provide shade and cool water during heat waves.
3. Parasites
Worms and coccidia frequently cause diarrhea, especially in young birds. Regular deworming helps prevent infestations.
4. Bacterial Infections
Salmonella, E. coli, and other bacteria can infect the digestive tract. These often require antibiotics.
5. Viral Diseases
Newcastle disease and avian influenza may cause diarrhea among other symptoms.
Effective Treatments for Chicken Diarrhea
Immediate Care
- Isolate affected birds
- Provide clean water with electrolytes
- Offer probiotics (plain yogurt or commercial supplements)
- Add apple cider vinegar to water (1-2 tbsp per gallon)
Natural Remedies
| Remedy | How It Helps | How to Administer |
|---|---|---|
| Plain yogurt | Restores gut bacteria | 1 tsp per bird daily |
| Pumpkin | High fiber, binds stool | Cooked, mashed 1 tbsp per bird |
| Boiled rice | Easy to digest | Cooled, mixed with feed |
| Garlic | Antimicrobial properties | 1 clove minced per gallon water |
When to Use Medications
For severe cases or suspected infections:
- Corid (amprolium): Treats coccidiosis (proper dosage is crucial)
- Oxytetracycline: For bacterial infections (requires vet prescription)
- Wormers: Fenbendazole or ivermectin for parasites
Preventing Diarrhea in Chickens
Housing Management
- Keep coops clean and dry
- Provide adequate space (4 sq ft per bird minimum)
- Ensure proper ventilation
Nutrition Tips
- Use high-quality feed
- Introduce new foods gradually
- Provide grit for digestion
- Offer fresh greens in moderation
Health Monitoring
- Check droppings daily
- Watch for changes in behavior
- Quarantine new birds for 2-3 weeks
- Follow a parasite control program
When to Call a Vet
Seek professional help if:
- Multiple birds are affected
- Diarrhea persists more than 3 days
- Blood is present in droppings
- Birds stop eating or drinking
- You notice neurological symptoms
According to poultry experts at Penn State Extension, prompt treatment of digestive issues significantly improves recovery rates in chickens.