Is my chicken's problem an emergency?

Chickens hide illness. By the time you notice, things may be serious. Here's what public veterinary and USDA sources say to watch for.

Not veterinary advice. This page is general information compiled from public university extension, USDA and FDA sources linked below. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. When a bird is sick or injured, contact a licensed veterinarian. If you see possible bird flu signs, report them (see Is it an emergency?).

Report right away: possible bird flu or other serious disease

USDA APHIS lists these signs and asks owners to report sick or dying birds to the State Veterinarian or USDA at 1-866-536-7593 (source):

Sudden death, or an increase in bird deaths
Lack of energy or appetite
Decreased egg production, or soft-shelled or misshapen eggs
Swelling of the head, neck, eyelids, comb, wattles or shanks
Purple discoloration of the wattles, comb or legs
Gasping for air, nasal discharge, sneezing
Stumbling or falling down, or twisting of the head and neck
Greenish, watery diarrhea

Get veterinary help as soon as possible

Suspected egg binding (straining, no egg). The Merck Veterinary Manual says hens suspected of egg binding "should be examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible" because it "can be life-threatening." See Egg binding.
Injuries from predators or pecking. Merck calls trauma "the most common problem affecting backyard poultry." Deep wounds, or a bird that isn't improving, need a vet.
Prolapse (tissue sticking out of the vent that doesn't go back in).
A bird that can't stand, or won't eat or drink.

Early, subtle signs worth watching

Merck lists early signs including lethargy or behavior changes, changes in food and water intake, dull feathers, soiled feathers around the nostrils, vent or eyes, swelling or discharge around the eyes, abnormal droppings, and lameness (Merck Veterinary Manual, Common Management-Related Problems in Backyard Poultry).

While you arrange help

Separate the bird into a quiet, warm, safe space away from the flock.
Wash your hands and change boots after handling sick birds.
If you can't find a local vet, see What to do if no vet near you treats chickens.

Written 2026-10-21 from the public sources linked above. Not reviewed by a veterinarian yet.