Expert: Abi - 7/23/2008

Question
We are totally new at this chicken thing.  I just bought 5 hens.  One died two days after  I brought her home. (they live in a chicken coop and have free range area outside also..with plenty of fresh water and food.  We live in NE Texas.  Then a week or so later I have two other chickens with coughing and wheezing.  I told my husband that the coop needs more ventiltaion.  There are only two openings in one side for chickens to walk inside and then about an inch at the top of two walls at the roof line.  
Just wondering if this could be causing the problems?
I need to know what to do for them, wheter to seperate them or what...?  
I appreciate your time,
Jayme


Answer
Sounds like they could have a nasty respiratory infection. Separate the poorly birds and ring up your vets for advice. Weigh the birds before you ring them up, and ask the vets for some antibiotics for them as this may help them; the vets need to know the weight of the chickens so they know how much antiobiotics they need.

While the birds are separated they still need lots of good food and sunlight and, if possible, the chance free range even if it is only for a few hours a day (if I need to separate my hens I put them in an old rabbit hutch with an attached run; if you could get hold of one of these it would be perfect). If you have a pet store that stocks chicken stuff then try to get some Poultry Spice (you can get it off the internet as well), I've started using it with my chickens this year and it's brilliant- my chickens have never been sleeker or happier! It will help your chickens to get back to full health.

Thanks for your question, please email me at abisheridee@googlemail.com or ask a follow up to let me know how you get on.