Urinary system disorders in chickens and chicks

Urinary tract disorders in chickens and chicks are relatively common, especially in intensive rearing conditions. It is important to remember that poultry do not have a bladder – the excreted material is uric acid (urea) which is excreted with the feces as the white part.

The main disorders are as follows:

1. Gout

Types:

   •   Visceral (internal) gout – deposition of uric acid crystals on internal organs.

    •   Arthritic gout – deposition in the joints (swelling of the legs).

Causes:

   •  Excess protein in the diet

   •  Dehydration

   •  Kidney disease

   •  Excess calcium (especially in chickens)

   •  Toxins (mycotoxins)

   •  Infections such as Infectious Bronchitis (also affects the kidneys)

Signs:

   •   Depression and weakness

   •   Decreased eating

   •  Whisky diarrhea

   •   Sudden death in chicks

2. Nephritis

Common causes:

   •  Avian infectious bronchitis virus

   •  Gumboro disease

   •  Food toxins

   •  Heat overload

Signs:

   •  Increased water intake

   •  Profuse white discharge

   •  Slow growth

   •  Dehydration

3. Ureter blockage

Caused by the accumulation of thick ureters.

Causes:

   •   Dehydration

   •  Unbalanced mineral concentrations

   •  Chronic kidney disease

4. Dehydration

A major cause of kidney problems in chicks.

Causes:

   •   High temperature

   •  Lack of clean water

   •  Overcrowding

Signs:

   •  Unkempt feathers

  •  Weakness

   •  Thick white discharge

Prevention and proper management

Clean and constantly available water

Correct balance of protein, calcium and phosphorus

Prevention of mycotoxins in food

Appropriate vaccinations (e.g. against infectious bronchitis and gumboro)

Temperature and ventilation control

*It is always advisable to consult a qualified veterinarian.