🐓 Is Your Chicken Trying to Tell You Something?
Common Chicken Health Issues (and What to Do!)
Chickens are pretty good at hiding when something’s not right — but if you know what to look for, you can catch small problems before they turn into big ones. Let’s run through the most common chicken health issues we see and how to keep your flock happy, healthy, and laying like champs!
🐜 1. Mites & Lice – The Unwanted House Guests
If your hens are scratching non-stop, losing feathers, or looking a little pale, mites or lice could be to blame.
Keep an eye out for:
✔ Feather loss
✔ Restless chickens (especially at night)
✔ Pale combs
Top tip: Regular coop cleaning and parasite treatments are your best defence.
🪱 2. Worms – The Invisible Trouble Makers
Internal parasites are common and often sneak up quietly.
Watch for:
✔ Weight loss
✔ Runny droppings
✔ Drop in egg production
Top tip: Routine worming keeps your flock thriving.
🦵 3. Scaly Leg Mite – Not Just a Cosmetic Issue
Crusty, raised leg scales aren’t normal — and the sooner you act, the better.
Signs include:
✔ Thick, flaky scales
✔ Limping in severe cases
Top tip: Early treatment prevents long-term damage.
😷 4. Sniffles & Sneezes – Respiratory Issues
The odd sneeze happens, but constant snuffling isn’t normal.
Look out for:
✔ Sneezing or wheezing
✔ Bubbly or watery eyes
✔ Nasal discharge
Top tip: Good ventilation and quick isolation of sick birds makes a huge difference.
🥚 5. Egg Binding – A True Chicken Emergency
This one needs fast action.
Warning signs:
✔ Lethargy
✔ Straining
✔ Swollen abdomen
Top tip: A balanced diet and proper calcium intake help prevent this.
🥚 6. Soft or Thin Egg Shells – Where’s the Calcium?
Shell-less eggs are a clear sign something’s missing.
You might notice:
✔ Thin, brittle shells
✔ Misshapen eggs
Top tip: Free-choice oyster shell is a must for laying hens.
👣 7. Bumblefoot – A Pain in the Foot
A sore foot can quickly become a serious issue.
Signs include:
✔ Limping
✔ Swollen foot
✔ Black scab on the pad
Top tip: Keep perches smooth and coop floors clean and dry.
🐔 8. Feather Pecking & Flock Drama
Yes, chickens can be bullies too!
Watch for:
✔ Bald patches
✔ Broken skin
✔ Stressy behaviour
Top tip: Avoid overcrowding and add boredom busters to the run.
🌽 9. Crop Problems – When Dinner Gets Stuck
The crop should empty overnight — if it doesn’t, something’s off.
Signs include:
✔ Hard or smelly crop
✔ Reduced appetite
Top tip: Always provide grit and avoid too many treats.
☀️ 10. Heat Stress – Too Hot to Cluck
Chickens don’t handle heat well, especially in summer.
Warning signs:
✔ Panting
✔ Wings held away from the body
✔ Lethargy
Top tip: Shade, cool water, and airflow are essential on hot days.
💛 Happy Chooks = Happy Keepers
If something seems off, trust your instincts. Isolate sick birds, check food and water, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Pop into Chook Manor — we’re always happy to talk chooks, troubleshoot problems, and help you find the right products to keep your flock in top shape 🐣💬
