TREATMENT.—This disease is very contagious, therefore the coops and runs should be disinfected with Crude Carbolic Acid, undiluted. In the drinking water add Hyposulphite of Soda in the proportion of one to two grains to each fowl (one-half grain to chicks). Wash the nodules or warts about the head with Carbolic Acid solution, one teaspoonful to a quart of water. Feed easily digested food, such as vegetables or warm bran mashes.
CAUSE.—Lack of exercise, overfeeding, tainted or moldy food, infection, or impure blood.
SYMPTOMS.—Birds suffering from this disease seldom show signs of sickness and it is well to dissect the fowl after death to ascertain the exact cause. If death is caused by Congestion of the Liver, the organ will be greatly enlarged and easily torn.
TREATMENT.—If the fowls are fat and sluggish, compel them to exercise by driving them about. Also give fifteen to twenty grains of Epsom Salts to each affected fowl. Feed laxative foods that are easily digested, as vegetables and warm bran mashes. They are cooling and relieve congestion.
CAUSE.—Exposure; the bird chills, causing contraction of the blood vessels near the surface of the body, thereby forcing a large quantity of blood to the internal organs; the small blood vessels in the lungs become distended with blood and rupture.
SYMPTOMS.—Rapid and difficult breathing; the bird appears stupid and sleepy and does not care to move about; appetite poor, wings drooping, plumage ruffled, a thick mucus, colored with blood, escapes from the mouth, comb and wattles show a dark-red color from lack of oxygen in the blood. This disease is of very short duration, the bird dying within a few hours. It is very common among young chicks and turkeys that are permitted to run out in the early spring rains.
TREATMENT.—Medical treatment is of no value, as the disease progresses so rapidly that the bird dies shortly after the first symptoms appear. Sanitary surroundings, good light, pure air and exercise are essential. Do not allow the birds to stand out in the cold or rains, especially during the molting season. Keep your poultry strong and vigorous by feeding clean, nourishing food and give them pure water to drink.
CAUSE.—Irritation of the membranes lining the intestines, caused by dry feed, glass or gravel; may also be due to parasitic worms. Obstruction may occur in any part of the intestines although the external opening is the part most frequently affected.