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Poultry farming business report volume 1
How to care and manage poultry health effectively in 5 tips
Studies have shown that healthy poultry has higher egg production rates, faster growth, and is more resistant to diseases.
In this blog, we will explore five highly effective tips that will help you maintain your poultry’s health and keep your flock thriving.
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Poultry Sector: An Overview
The poultry sector has various levels of production, ranging from feed factories and hatcheries to breeding farms and processing plants. Within this sector, there are different poultry species such as chicken, duck, turkey, and goose. When it comes to poultry species, chicken takes the lead as the predominant breed worldwide, representing more than 90 per cent of the entire sector.
It is no wonder that the sector’s CAGR is 7%. The poultry sector, which had a market value of USD 310.7 billion in 2020, is expected to grow to USD 422.97 billion in 2025.
Despite being one of the fastest-growing industries, it has various problems. The biggest challenge is infectious diseases caused by poultry. Hence it becomes important that poultry farm owners take utmost care of their flock and take advantage of this ever-growing market.
Common Diseases in Poultry Farming
Poultry farming, like any other agricultural practice, is not immune to diseases. Being aware of poultry diseases is crucial for farmers to promptly identify and address potential health issues. Here are some of the common diseases in poultry farming:
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu): This highly contagious viral disease affects various bird species, including chickens, ducks, and turkeys. It can cause severe respiratory distress, decreased egg production, and high mortality rates.
Newcastle Disease: Another viral disease, Newcastle affects domestic and wild birds worldwide. It spreads rapidly and causes respiratory, digestive, and nervous system issues, leading to high mortality rates.
Infectious Bronchitis (IB): IB is a highly contagious respiratory disease. Its symptoms include coughing, sneezing, and rales, which are rattling sounds in the respiratory system. This disease is caused by a chicken-specific virus, making chickens particularly susceptible to its effects.
Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro Disease): This highly contagious viral disease mainly affects young chickens, targeting their immune system. It can cause immunosuppression, leading to increased susceptibility to secondary infections. It can occur through various means, including direct contact between birds, contaminated litter and faeces, contaminated air, equipment, feed and more.
Marek’s Disease: A highly contagious viral disease, Marek’s affects young chickens. It causes tumours in nerves, leading to paralysis, weight loss, and increased mortality rates. It is caused by the Herpes virus. The virus is concentrated in feather follicles and sheds in dander. It can survive for months in empty poultry houses.
Fowl Cholera: Fowl cholera is a bacterial infection that primarily affects chickens and turkeys. It can cause severe respiratory and systemic symptoms, leading to high mortality rates. It is caused by Pasteurella multocida. The organism can survive up to one month in droppings, three months in decaying carcasses, and two to three months in soil. It primarily enters the tissues of the mouth and upper respiratory tract. It’s important to note that fowl cholera is not transmitted through the egg.
Salmonellosis: Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella bacteria. It can affect both birds and humans, causing diarrhoea, reduced egg production, and potential transmission through contaminated eggs or poultry products.
Read also: 5 important points on chicken prolapse
Key Principles of Poultry Health Management
1) Quality Feed for Poultry
Ensure that your poultry receives a nutritionally balanced diet that meets their specific needs. This typically includes a mix of high-quality grains, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Consult with a poultry nutritionist or veterinarian to create a suitable poultry feed.
2) Poultry Care and Management
Regularly clean and disinfect your poultry’s housing to minimize the risk of disease and pests. Remove droppings, replace bedding, and provide adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria or ammonia levels.
3) Practice Biosecurity Measures
Implement strict biosecurity practices to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases. This includes restricting access to your poultry farm, limiting visitors, and using foot baths or sanitizing stations. Quarantine new birds before introducing them to the existing flock.
4) Provide Clean Water
Ensure a constant supply of clean and fresh water for your poultry. Regularly check and clean water containers to prevent the growth of algae or bacteria. Hydration is crucial for overall health, digestion, and egg production.
5) Poultry Disease Control and Prevention
Regularly observe your poultry for any signs of illness or abnormalities. Keep an eye out for changes in behaviour, appetite, or physical appearance. Early poultry disease control and prevention allows for prompt veterinary intervention, reducing the risk of further spread and potential mortality.
Remember, it’s always beneficial to consult with a poultry veterinarian for medical advice and guidance specific to your poultry’s needs.
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