What it looks like
Labored breathing or panting — Bird takes short, shallow breaths; may open mouth to breathe, especially when resting
Wheezing, rattling, or coughing sounds — Crackling or wheezing sounds during breathing; occasional dry cough
Reduced activity and lethargy — Bird is inactive, sits with ruffled feathers, appears ill and unresponsive
Loss of appetite — Bird refuses food and water; loses weight; may stop eating entirely
Twisted neck or torticollis — Head pulled to one side; loss of balance; bird cannot walk straight (occurs when infection spreads to the nervous system)
Abdominal swelling — Belly appears enlarged or distended; bird sits awkwardly due to discomfort
Discharge from nostrils or eyes — Clear, milky, or foamy discharge from nose; eyes may be swollen or closed
Greenish or pale droppings — Abnormal droppings color; may indicate organ stress or secondary infection
Sudden death — Bird dies with little or no warning; may be found dead without seeing prior illness signs
Likely causes
What to do
Veterinary cause and antibiotic treatment are necessary. Your vet may recommend broad-spectrum antibiotics (such as enrofloxacin or amoxicillin) after taking cultures if possible. Supportive care includes warm shelter, fresh water, nutritious feed, and isolation. Improve ventilation and air quality immediately. Many birds recover with prompt treatment, but prognosis depends on how advanced the infection is.
When to see a vet
See a vet if your bird shows severe signs or doesn’t improve within a few days of treatment.
Prevention
Maintain excellent ventilation to keep ammonia and dust low. Clean and disinfect housing and equipment regularly. Avoid overcrowding. Isolate new or sick birds to prevent spread. Minimize stress and environmental irritants. Good biosecurity (isolate new additions, don’t mix age groups) reduces exposure to pathogens.
FAQ
Is air sacculitis caused by a virus or bacteria?
Air sacculitis is typically a bacterial infection, though it often follows a viral respiratory illness that weakens the bird’s immune system. Your vet can take swabs to identify the specific bacterium and choose an appropriate antibiotic.
Can air sacculitis spread to my other birds?
Yes. Air sacculitis is contagious. Isolate infected birds immediately and practice good biosecurity (wash hands, change clothes, disinfect equipment) to reduce spread. If multiple birds show signs, contact your vet to test and treat the whole flock if needed.
Why do some birds get twisted necks with air sacculitis?
If the infection spreads to the nervous system or brain, birds can lose balance or coordination (torticollis). This is a more severe form and indicates the infection is advanced. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is critical.
How long does air sacculitis treatment take?
Treatment typically lasts 5-10 days with antibiotics. Most birds start improving within 2-3 days if responsive to the antibiotic chosen. However, birds may not fully recover if damage to the air sacs is severe or if secondary complications develop.
Is ammonia in the coop related to air sacculitis?
Yes. High ammonia levels from wet, soiled bedding irritate and damage the delicate air sac linings, making them susceptible to bacterial infection. Clean bedding regularly, improve ventilation, and reduce moisture to prevent ammonia buildup and air sacculitis.
For more help, try our chicken symptom checker or read about signs your chicken is sick.