Chicken Health Issue: Ear Canker - Ask Extension
Hello, I have a 6 week old chick who has developed ear cankers on both ears. I have been doing as much internet searching as I can about this and the ...
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Chicken Health Issue: Ear Canker #864600
Asked April 15, 2024, 1:41 PM EDT
Hello, I have a 6 week old chick who has developed ear cankers on both ears. I have been doing as much internet searching as I can about this and the theme I'm seeing is that while the pus and scab of the canker can be removed, even after several cleanings and treatment with a topical antibiotic, it is very hard to get rid of. Some articles mention oral and injectable antibiotics, but it's unclear how effective they are, or which is best to use. Do you know of any successful treatment for ear canker, and/or which antibiotic would be best (and how to get it? I can't afford to take her to the vet.) If there is little chance for this going away completely, I'm thinking it would be better to euthanize the chick rather than putting her through the stress of repeated cleanings and treatments. The photo I attached is from an online blog post, but it looks just like what my little pullet has on both ears. Thank you for your help and insight!
Benton County Oregon
Expert Response
Avian trichomonosis (also known as 'canker' or 'frounce') is an infectious disease of birds caused by the flagellate protozoan parasite Trichomonas gallinae. The disease is extremely common in domestic and wild pigeons and doves (approximately 80-90% are carriers) worldwide. Chickens usually become infected through sharing a water or feed source with domestic or wild pigeons and doves. Avian trichomonosis primarily affects the upper gastrointestinal system. Birds will develop 'canker'-like sores inside the oral cavity and esophagus.
That said, this is probably fowl pox, it appears on unfeathered skin. This is a more likely diagnosis. It is contagious so the bird must be isolated until it runs its course.
That said, this is probably fowl pox, it appears on unfeathered skin. This is a more likely diagnosis. It is contagious so the bird must be isolated until it runs its course.
