Cause.—Mechanical injuries, straining when laying eggs (hens are frequently found dead on the nest from this cause), overfeeding, stimulating food, etc., all tend to produce apoplexy.
Symptoms.—Appear very suddenly, bird is seen to walk unsteadily, falls, or perhaps is found dead.
Treatment.—In mild attacks, apply cold water or ice to fowl’s head until thoroughly cooled. Give one-half grain of Calomel, feed soft food, compel the bird to exercise. Owing to the loss of blood a tonic will be necessary. Pulv. Gentian Root, Pulv. Saltpeter, Capsicum and Ferri Sulphate Pulv. equal parts one ounce. Mix and place one teaspoonful in feed for every twenty-five fowls. This tonic purifies and builds up the blood, just what is needed in this particular condition.
BALDNESS.
(Favus)
Cause.—Due to fungi.
Symptoms.—The first noticeable sign is the whitish appearance of the comb due to gray spots about the size of a pin head. As the disease progresses, this condition spreads to other parts of the body; the feathers look rough and dry and break easily. The fowl grows weaker, refuses to eat and if not properly treated, dies.
Treatment.—Remove the scabs by separating the feathers and using a brush. Apply Sulphur Ointment. Repeat this treatment after two or three days. Great care must be taken to prevent the fowl from chilling or taking cold.
BEAK AND THROAT OBSTRUCTION.
Cause.—Lodgment in the beak or food canal of a foreign substance, such as a kernel of corn, sunflower seed, bone, etc.
Symptoms.—Fowl jerks its head suddenly and frequently attempts to swallow. If a close examination is made the foreign body can be felt from the outside.