Coccidiosis in Chicks

A common intestinal disease in chicks is Cocci (coxy) or Coccidiosis.  As explained in the Merck Veterinarian Manual, it is a "protozoa of the phylum Apicomplexa, family Eimeriidae," and "Coccidia are almost universally present in poultry-raising operations." Even in healthy environments, the chicks may have some Cocci within their digestive system, but when it overloads their digestive tract, then chicks may fail to thrive and stop eating altogether.  

Unfortunately, if chicks develop Cocci, the use of medicated starter feed is less than helpful, nor useful in these situations, especially when it involves chicks, because they will usually stop eating. Most chicks and mature chickens can build resistance to Cocci parasites in their digestive system over time if they are raised and kept in a healthy environment. Unfortunately, brooding environments can be difficult to keep clean and "Cocci" free, as the birds are typically eating feed that falls on the floor that mixes with their feces, or are simply eating their own pooh, adding more Coccidia back into their systems. 

Some common symptoms of Cocci are: diarrhea or extremely watery pooh that is discolored or reddish, general listlessness, weak or hunched, feathers are puffed out, less eating and drinking, decreased weight gain, and skin tone that is pale. A sample of their feces can be taken to a vet for confirmation of Cocci.

An outbreak of Cocci can wipe out an entire young flock if not caught early enough and treated. Mature chickens tend to have developed the best resistance to Cocci. The best treatment is prevention with vaccination. Depending on the stage of the condition, there are some treatment supplements that can be added to their food or water.  The best treatment options involve water since the chicks will continue to drink water even if they are no longer eating.  If possible, isolate the sickest chicks so that they are no longer contributing to the infection load in the brooder. Clean out the litter daily, as well as the waterer and feeder with cider vinegar once or twice per day to maintain a healthier environment. Make certain that the brooder is not overcrowded based on the age of the chicks. Overcrowding poultry at any age only seems to contribute to illness in the flock.   

Please note, if your chicks were vaccinated for Cocci do not feed them medicated starter feed as that will undo the efficacy of the vaccine. If they have not been vaccinated for the disease, then using medicated starter feed may help, but is not a guarantee that it will adequately treat the Cocci overload. Regardless, a clean brooding environment is an ounce of prevention to the pound of cure.