12/07/2026
Why are birds not eating feed?
1. Disease
Newcastle disease
Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD)
Coccidiosis
CRD (respiratory disease)
Colibacillosis (E. coli)
Signs: Dull birds, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, swollen eyes, increased mortality.
2. Heat stress
High temperatures reduce appetite.
Birds drink more water and eat less.
3. Poor feed quality
Moldy or stale feed
Feed contaminated with mycotoxins
Sudden change in feed
4. Poor water quality
Dirty or warm water
Insufficient water supply
High salt or contamination
5. Overcrowding
Too many birds sharing feeders and drinkers.
6. Internal parasites
Worms reduce appetite and growth.
7. Vitamin or mineral deficiencies
Can reduce appetite and affect growth.
8. Environmental stress
Poor ventilation
High ammonia levels
Sudden changes in lighting or handling
Measures to solve the problem
✅ Check feed for mold, bad smell, or spoilage.
✅ Ensure birds have clean, cool water available at all times.
✅ Improve ventilation and reduce heat stress using fans, cooling, or foggers where appropriate.
✅ Add electrolytes and vitamins during periods of heat or other stress, according to product directions or veterinary advice.
✅ Keep litter dry and clean.
✅ Observe birds for signs of disease and isolate sick birds if possible.
✅ Follow your vaccination and deworming program.
✅ If feed intake remains low for more than 24 hours or mortality increases, consult a poultry veterinarian for diagnosis before using medications.
Farmer Tip
Healthy birds eat well. Clean water + quality feed + good ventilation + strong biosecurity are the foundation of good feed intake and flock performance.
