The advice hub Sneezing Turkeys
Cause
The main causes of respiratory diseases in turkeys are Mycoplasma and Avian RhinoTracheitis virus (ART). Often these agents occur together and without your vet carrying out a blood test there is no way of telling which one(s) are involved. Irrespective of the cause the treatment is the same.
It is important to note that Mycoplasma is carried by the bird for life and can remain dormant until it is triggered by a stress, such as moving to a new home or severe cold weather. The infected birds will then go on to infect the new flock.
Mycoplasma gallisepticum can also be transferred through the egg so the chicks are actually infected from hatch. Mycoplasma synoviae can cause joint infections in turkey’s leading to lameness. Mycoplasma and ART can infect chickens too.
What to look out for
- Sneezing
- Runny eyes
- Runny nose
- Lameness
Treatment
In mild cases the birds will recover. However, if the birds appear dull or the condition does not improve then seek veterinary advice.
If your vet gives your birds antibiotics, we recommend giving Beryl’s Friendly Bacteria 48 hours after antibiotic treatment. This is because antibiotics will kill the good bacteria along with the bad bacteria. This product contains over 200 species of friendly bacteria to help repopulate the gut.
As with all diseases, respiratory disease can take a lot out of your bird and we recommend using Chicken Vet Multivitamins containing essential amino acids and vitamins to help build up your bird’s body reserves and give support following illness. Using Digesti-Health in feed at this time will also be of great benefit.
Prevention
- Only buy poults from reputable suppliers, not local markets
- Try to buy vaccinated birds
- If you buy new birds, keep them isolated from your existing birds for three weeks
