News

Bird Flu Update for Chicken Keepers – August 2025

22 August 2025

Avian Influenza (AI), or bird flu, has seen a rise in confirmed cases across the UK this summer, particularly the H5N1 strain. The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has responded by introducing additional rules under the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), for game bird and shoot operators.

If you keep chickens or other captive birds, it’s essential to stay up to date with any changes. In this article, our team explains what’s happening, what to look out for, and how you can help keep your flock safe.

Why are bird flu cases rising in summer?

Typically, you’ll see bird flu outbreaks as we head into the autum

Vet approved red mite control for backyard chickens - Introducing Home Shield

02 July 2025

If you’ve ever dealt with red mites in your coop, you know how frustrating they can be. Home Shield is a strong adhesive liquid that dries to form a chalky protective coating on surfaces to help dry out and eliminate red mite fast! Read more

Spring clean your coop

31 March 2025

With warmer weather on the horizon, now is a great time to spring clean your coop and take stock of your poultry equipment.

How to prepare for housing your backyard chickens

11 February 2025

Throughout your birds lives there may be a number of reasons why they will need to be housed,

The Chicken Vet launches CPD courses for 2025

06 February 2025

If you’re a vet or veterinary nurse looking to build on your knowledge of poultry medicine, The Chicken Vet CPD training course could be for you – with the 2025 dates now available to book.

Biosecurity in backyard flock

15 January 2025

Vets discuss the term biosecurity

Treats and enrichment for your birds

09 December 2024

This time of year, everyone loves to spoil their pets, whether its with treats or a new form of enrichment, and hen owners are no different. Read more

Christmas & New Year Opening Times 2024

04 December 2024

To guarantee delivery before Christmas and New Year please place orders by 12pm on

Looking after your birds in cold weather

21 November 2024

With the days become shorter and the nights getting colder, we all like to come home and turn

Minimise your red mite burden for 2025

17 October 2024

It’s not just a good idea to have a ‘spring clean’ of your hens’ housing – now is a good ti

A guide to caring for moulting hens

25 September 2024

Moulting will usually occur annually when daylight hours start to shorten. Some birds don’t l

Provide the right environment and hens will use the nest box

22 June 2022

BEN SOUTH SAYS: It’s important to understand that hens will nest where they feel most comfortable, a

Excessive temperatures for long periods can be detrimental to a bird’s health

10 June 2021

BEN SOUTH SAYS: Heat stress is a known ailment in poultry, both in commercial and backyard settings. Birds don’t sweat. They control their body temperature via evaporation through respiration and nonevaporation techniques in the form of radiation. Behaviours seen during heat-stress periods include birds lowering their body to the floor with wings outstretched to increase body-surface area, open-beak panting and searching for shade. Birds can deal with temperatures up to 28°C without too much pr

Housing restrictions end 23:59 31 March 2021

31 March 2021

As you may already be aware, GB Government have announced plans to lift poultry housing restriction measures from 23:59 on 31st March.

Whilst many of you will be keen to get your birds outside, The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone mandatory biosecurity measures remain in place for all birds, so if you plan to allow your birds outside after 31 March you must prepare their outside areas, please check the information available at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/971244/advice-to-poultry-keepers-preparing-range.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1fcoEwoKdAGRVgwidlSKc-R5RTZ3fwWAPUyMyn4wISPNypuwhYYWRq-7M

Stop aggressive behaviour as soon as possible

09 March 2021

BEN SOUTH SAYS: Once flocks are established, a pecking order will have been formed and it is maintained by dominant birds within the flock. This is completely natural behaviour, but it may lead to injuries if the birds cannot agree to a hierarchy.

When new birds are introduced there is often a period of time while the hens are reorganising this dominance. Aggression can be particularly bad if the hens you bring in were dominant in their last flock and this can lead to trauma and high levels

Why you should avoid free-ranging chickens with pigs and sheep

03 March 2021

Q - I’ve heard that you should never allow chickens to range with pigs. Is this true?

BEN SOUTH SAYS: I suspect the reason that you’ve heard this is due to the bacterium Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, commonly known as Erysipelas. This bacterium can cause sudden high mortalityin chickens and is often shed in faeces by infected animals, such as pigs or even sheep.
Classic outbreaks of Erysipelas are often seen in backyard, free-ranging flocks that use pasture whe

When introducing young birds to the flock provide fresh bedding regularly

02 March 2021

Ben South BvetMed MRCVS from The Chicken Vet says:

If you are introducing new chicks to an already occupied run and coop then a full disinfecting programme wouldn’t be worthwhile due to the level of contamination in the environment. As a general rule, however, weekly clean outs of the existing coop with something like Poultry Shield or a general poultry disinfectant should keep most harmful pathogens at bay.

It is also important to ensure that you regularly provide f

Introducing ducks to a flock of chickens needs little care

01 March 2021

Ducks, geese and chickens are perfectly happy to coexist and I would introduce them like you would a new pair of chickens. Quarantine them for two weeks in a penned-off area where they can see each other but not have physical contact. Monitor them closely for another few weeks to ensure that there is no aggression occuring.

Avian Influenza - Advice for Backyard Poultry following announcement of new Housing Order

10 December 2020

Due to the levels of AI seen in the UK in recent weeks, a new housing order will be brought in for all bird keepers, domestic and commercial, from 14th December. It will, from this date, be a legal requirement to keep your birds, however big your flock, inside at all times. Read more

Avian Influenza Prevention Zone - Self-assessment checklist

25 November 2020

Following the implementation of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across the UK on 11th November, a new self-assessment checklist has been created to help all bird keepers and owners to identify the measures they have in place to protect their flock.

Avian Influenza: What is it, and how can you prevent the disease from entering your flock?

13 November 2020

Following the announcement of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) being put in place on 11^th November, The Chicken Vet wanted to share some helpful information regarding AI and the best practice husbandry protocols that will help to prevent the disease from spreading to your flock.

Avian Influenza Prevention Zone Declared

12 November 2020

Following recent cases of Avian Influenza (AI) within the UK, the UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer confirmed that an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone will be put in place covering the whole of England.

Question: Scaly leg mite

05 October 2020

Question:

I have seen a backyard chicken, a laying hen, approximately 5 years old. She has had a 3-month history of thick crusty scabs on both legs and feet, approximately 0.5cm thick. Trying to remove the scabs leaves exposed flesh. The peripheral edges of the scabs are yellow. The chicken's activity has reduced and she is not laying. The lesions are not in the right place for bumblefoot. It doesn't look like any scaly leg I've seen but I guess it still could be. Her feet have been bandaged

Poultry Multivitamins are back in stock

28 September 2020

We are pleased to say that our popular Chicken Vet Poultry Multivitamins are now back in stock!

In a new 500ml bottle, our Poultry Multivitamins are a concentrated supplement formulated by poultry vets and nutritionists. Containing a mix of vitamins, minerals and amino acids with the addition of specialist essential oils and antioxidants, these are an excellent way to give your birds a boost.

To find out more information, or to buy this product, click the link below: https://www.chickenvet.co.uk/chicken-vet-poultry-multivitamins

The Chicken Vet Training Day is moving online!

18 August 2020

Due to the current restrictions in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, and with the health and safety of both our staff and attendees of upmost importance, we are moving our Chicken Vet Training Days online, launching our first webinar training day in September 2020.

This will allow you to learn from the comfort of your own home, office or practice.

Our webinar training will closely follow the format of the in-practice days, covering all of the same modules

Question: Aggressive Cockerels

18 June 2020

Question:

A recurrent problem is what to do with unwanted roosters and currently there is a high cull rate if more than a few are hatched. I have had a request to neuter a set of cockerels to help prevent fighting and rough behaviour with the hens. Given this is a common cause of neutering in other pet species, it seemed reasonable, however I have seen written it is not allowed in the UK. I have seen information on suprelorin implants but for a lifetime, this would

Question: Trichomoniasis (Oral Canker)

17 April 2020

Question:

How can I treat trichomonas in backyard poultry, producing eggs for human consumption, in compliance with legislation? Metronidazole and ronidazole are on the banned list. Can we use them on an animal welfare basis and what egg withdrawal would we apply? Or is there an alternative treatment anyone has found successful?

Answer:

Trichomoniasis or Oral Canker can be difficult to treat due to the persistent caseous lesions often found

Introducing our new Associated Practice Logo

13 February 2020

Introducing the new Chicken Vet Associated logo!

A Review of Mareks Disease in Backyard Flocks

01 February 2020

The Marek’s disease virus was the first virus found to be associated with neoplasia. The virus is a herpes virus.

A Review of Oral Lesions in Backyard Chickens

03 January 2020

There are three potential diseases which may cause oral lesions.

Happy World Egg Day!

11 October 2019

World Egg Day Special Weekend Discount!

Question: Suprelorin versus Delvosterone

26 September 2019

Suprelorin versus delvosterone in chickens

An approach to red mite control with predator mites

01 August 2019

Red mite (Dermanyssus gallinae), a blood sucking mite, is a particular problem during the warmer months, generally between March and October.

Why is Poultry Grit so important?

31 July 2019

A very important aspect of chicken husbandry is making grit available to your birds. Commercial laying hens have a diet containing a type of soluble grit, usually in the form of limestone granules, therefore for backyard hens and ex-battery hens topping up their diet with a suitable grit is necessary.

Question: Ascites & Liver Failure

09 July 2019

One of my clients has brought in a chicken which has ascites and liver failure, high liver enzymes, low urea, low albumen and low total protein...

Question: Skin Disease

09 July 2019

I was hoping you would be able to get some advice regarding some skin disease in two pet chickens. The client has three one year old chickens...

Analgesia in Poultry

31 January 2019

As with any animal, the use of analgesia in backyard poultry is extremely important. Unfortunately for veterinary staff birds are incredibly stoic and often do not show signs of pain/illness until the condition is severe.

Anthelmentics in Backyard Poultry

31 January 2019

When it comes to worming backyard poultry, Flubendazole is the most readily available product. It can either be purchased premixed in the feed or mixed at home using the 1% powder to give 30ppm for chickens and geese and 20ppm for turkeys.

An Approach to Lameness

31 January 2019

Lameness issues are often a problem faced by in-practice vets and it can be sometimes hard to identify the primary cause. In this article we will discuss the possible primary causes of lameness in backyard poultry and the basics behind diagnosing and treatment.

Ascites in Chickens

31 January 2019

When chickens appear dull with weight loss and swollen abdomens are presented our immediate conclusion is that the bird has peritonitis.

Avian Influenza

31 January 2019

The very mention of the words Avian Influenza (AI) or bird flu strikes fear into the hearts of poultry keepers and the general public alike.

Worms in Chickens

31 January 2019

We all regularly worm our cats, dogs, horses and cows: so why not our chickens?

Some Common Waterfowl Diseases

31 January 2019

Along with the increased popularity of backyard chickens more and more owners are keeping ducks and geese. We commonly view waterfowl as bulletproof, and whilst waterfowl are certainly much more resilient than chickens, once they become ill the outcome tends to be bleak.

Euthanasia and the Correct Disposal of Deceased Pet Chickens

31 January 2019

As one vet recently commented to me in relation to backyard poultry, “I seem to put down more birds than I save”. Whilst the comment may be rather grim, it reflects one of the most common issues with providing veterinary care for backyard birds, and that is that many are presented to us when they are at death’s door.

Crawling with mites and lice - types and how to treat

31 January 2019

Most people with chickens have probably heard of and may have also experienced the irritating chicken red mite in their birds.

Establishing a small poultry flock

31 January 2019

Most people acquire some hens with little planning or thought due to the excitement of getting them. Therefore they may end up with birds not entirely suited to their needs.

Turkeys - Disease problems throughout the year

31 January 2019

The seasonal nature of turkey production in the UK means that the turkey population expands markedly in the second half of the year. This results in higher infectious pressures at a time when we would traditionally see greater challenges to management in terms of temperature and humidity due to cold weather.

Gumboro Disease in Backyard Birds

31 January 2019

Gumboro disease (AKA Infectious Bursal Disease) is named after the town in the USA where it was first discovered. It is caused by a Birnavirus which attacks the Bursa of Fabricius in sexually immature birds.

Helping your birds thrive

31 January 2019

Understanding the needs of your birds will assist greatly in being rewarded with quality eggs and entertainment! Husbandry encompasses many practices which are important in minimising disease too.

Rules Regarding the Import of Birds and Eggs to the UK from the EU

31 January 2019

Many poultry breeders who have particularly rare breeds often wish to expand their bloodlines by buying in eggs or birds from the continent, however the rules are a minefield and in this article we hope to give a basic but clear understanding.

Managing your birds during cold weather

31 January 2019

As the days become short and the night’s cold, we all like to come home and turn up the heat but unfortunately this is not a luxury that your birds have.

Nervous Signs in Poultry

31 January 2019

Nervous signs amongst backyard poultry should always be on the differential list given the number of notifiable diseases that can cause nervous signs in the avian species.

Rules on the Slaughter of Backyard Poultry

31 January 2019

In the past, when owners wished to dispatch a bird they often killed it by cervical dislocation.

Newcastle Disease

31 January 2019

Newcastle Disease (ND) is one of the two notifiable diseases of poultry in the UK and there has been much press coverage given to the other notifiable disease, Avian influenza.

Notifiable Diseases in Backyard Poultry

31 January 2019

As vets we all hope never to have to diagnose a notifiable disease. However whilst it is unlikely for an avian notifiable disease to enter the UK it is well worth vets dealing with backyard pet poultry to be aware of the pathogens and what to do should such a condition be suspected.

Practical guide to using Marek’s vaccine in small flocks

31 January 2019

Marek’s disease is commonly experienced by the hobby keeper who hatches and rears rare breeds, and those hatching a few chicks alongside keeping older birds.

Reproductive Disorders

31 January 2019

Chickens are rather unique by virtue to the fact that their reproductive tracts are in use almost every day of the year.

Respiratory Disease in Poultry ‐ Quick Consult Guide

31 January 2019

One of the most common and frustrating health issues in backyard poultry is respiratory disease. There are a number of potential reasons for such a high prevalence of respiratory disease in backyard holdings.

The Chicken Vet Guide to Poor Hatchability

31 January 2019

Just as interest in keeping backyard chickens has risen dramatically over the past few years so too has the number of owners buying their own incubators.

Vaccinating Poultry with the smaller flock in mind

31 January 2019

Vaccination of back yard poultry is a topic we frequently discuss with customers, clients and vets alike. It is to a degree and area of mystery; causing confusion due to conflicting information and discussion on blogs, the uninitiated giving unfounded advice on a complex subject!

What to do when you have a sick chicken

31 January 2019

Backyard chickens are susceptible to a variety of diseases, normally caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites. This article will provide you with the first steps to take when you think one or more of your chickens may be sick.

Crop Problems in Pet Chickens

31 January 2019

Domestic chickens are descended from Jungle fowl, a prey species which are opportunist scavengers. These birds need to be able to quickly eat large quantities of food when it is available without putting themselves in a vulnerable feeding situation for a long period of time.