Coccidiosis is caused by a microscopic parasite called coccidia that is transmitted via the droppings from infected birds. In other words, anywhere there's a microscopic trace of bird poop—in a waterer, a feeder, or in bedding—there's almost certainly coccidia present.
What is the cause of coccidiosis in chickens?
How the disease is caused. Coccidiosis is caused by protozoan parasites of the Eimeria genus which are always present in the shed and farm environment. Their reproductive form – the oocysts – are present in the birds' droppings and from here they can be ingested.
Can chickens recover from coccidiosis?
Follow treatment with a vitamin supplement (especially A and K) is recommended and chickens affected by coccidiosis can take a few weeks to fully recover from their infection. Survivors of one strain may become infected with a different strain and require further treatment.
How do I know if my chicken has coccidiosis?
Outward signs of coccidiosis in chickens include droopiness and listlessness, loss of appetite, loss of yellow color in shanks, pale combs and wattles, ruffled, unthrifty feathers, huddling or acting chilled, blood or mucus in the feces, diarrhea, dehydration, and even death.
How do you treat coccidia in chickens?
One of the easiest ways to control coccidiosis is to purchase vaccinated birds. Vaccines are given at the hatchery on the day of hatch. Once the animals have developed immunity, they will be resistant to the strains of coccidia used in the vaccine they received. Most backyard chickens are not vaccinated.
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