Expert crop issue care for your chickens — from home

Common crop issues in chickens include: Sour Crop: • Fungal infection in the crop • Causes crop contents to ferment • Often smells yeasty or sour • Can lead to serious complications Impacted Crop: • Blockage in the crop • Food material becomes hardened • Prevents proper digestion • Can be life-threatening if untreated Risk Factors: • Long grass or fibrous materials • Moldy or spoiled feed • Poor feeding habits • Underlying health issues • Dehydration

Watch for these warning signs: Sour Crop Signs: • Sour, yeasty smell from beak • Liquid-filled, mushy crop • Crop doesn't empty overnight • Loss of appetite • Lethargy • Frequent swallowing Impacted Crop Signs: • Hard, firm crop • Crop remains full for extended periods • Reduced eating or drinking • Weight loss • Listless behavior • Stretching neck repeatedly

Our veterinary team provides comprehensive crop care: 1. Professional Assessment • Evaluation of crop condition • Identification of specific issue • Determination of severity • Underlying cause investigation 2. Treatment Planning We develop specific protocols for: • Crop massage techniques • Dietary modifications • Medication administration • Supportive care measures 3. Ongoing Support • Regular monitoring • Treatment adjustments • Recovery guidance • Prevention strategies 4. Emergency Care • Immediate intervention when needed • Critical care protocols • Surgical options if required

Essential care practices for crop issues: 1. Immediate Actions • Withhold food temporarily • Provide clean, fresh water • Gentle crop massage • Monitor crop emptying 2. Treatment Support • Proper medication administration • Careful feeding management • Regular crop checks • Progress monitoring 3. Diet Modifications • Soft, easily digestible foods • Proper feed particle size • Clean water access • Grit supplementation 4. Prevention Measures • Regular feeding schedule • Fresh, quality feed • Clean feeding areas • Proper grass management

Contact Telavets immediately if you notice: • Severe lethargy or weakness • Unable to eat or drink • Crop hasn't emptied in 24 hours • Difficulty breathing • Severe distension of crop • Signs of dehydration • Significant behavior changes Early intervention is crucial for preventing serious complications. Our veterinarians can provide immediate guidance and treatment options.