Coccidiosis in turkeys is a parasitic infection that affects the digestive tract, leading to various symptoms ranging from mild to severe. It’s caused by Eimeria protozoa, which invade the intestinal tract, causing inflammation and damage. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment of coccidiosis in turkeys is essential for turkey farmers to prevent outbreaks. In this article, we’ll explore coccidiosis in turkeys, including its symptoms, treatment, and preventive measures.

What is Coccidiosis in Turkeys?

Coccidiosis in turkeys is a parasitic infection caused by protozoa of the Eimeria genus. These microscopic parasites invade the digestive tract, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. The infection is most common in turkeys at a few weeks of age, particularly in flocks housed in crowded or unsanitary conditions. The parasite is transmitted when turkeys ingest oocysts (eggs) found in contaminated food, drinking water, or bedding. Wild birds can also act as carriers, spreading the infection to farmed turkeys.

Symptoms of Coccidiosis in Turkeys

The symptoms of coccidiosis in turkeys can range from mild to severe infection, depending on the age of the birds and the severity of the disease. Common symptoms include:

• Diarrhea: The most noticeable symptom, which may be bloody or contain mucus in severe cases.
• Lethargy: Infected turkeys often appear weak or less active.
• Loss of Appetite: Affected birds may stop eating or drinking, leading to weight loss and poor feed conversion.
• Dehydration: Caused by excessive diarrhea, leading to rapid fluid loss.
• Pale Comb and Wattle: Blood loss and poor absorption of nutrients can cause pale combs and wattles.
• Abdominal Distention: In severe cases, a bloated or swollen abdomen can be observed.
• Reduced Growth: In young turkeys at a few weeks of age, the infection can result in stunted growth.
• Egg Production Drop: In breeding turkeys, coccidiosis can cause a decline in egg production.
• Secondary Infections: Bacterial infections often follow coccidiosis, worsening the bird’s condition.
• Sudden Death: In extreme cases, coccidiosis can cause rapid mortality, especially when not treated promptly.

Treatment for Coccidiosis in Turkeys

Coccidiosis can be fatal if left untreated, particularly in young turkeys. Immediate treatment is essential to prevent severe outcomes. The most common treatment involves using anticoccidial drugs to control the spread of the parasite.

How to Treat Coccidiosis in Turkeys

Anticoccidial Medications

The primary treatment for coccidiosis in turkeys is the use of anticoccidial drugs, which inhibit the growth and reproduction of Eimeria parasites. Common medications include:

• Amprolium: A common drug used to treat coccidiosis. It works by inhibiting the parasite’s ability to absorb thiamine, leading to its death.
• Monensin: Often added to feed or drinking water to control the growth of Eimeria.
• Sulfadimethoxine: A sulfa drug that stops the growth of parasites.

Supportive Care

In addition to medication, providing supportive care is crucial, especially for dehydrated turkeys:

• Provide fresh drinking water mixed with electrolytes to combat dehydration.
• Keep turkeys in a clean, dry, and stress-free environment to help them recover.
• Apple Cider Vinegar in drinking water is sometimes used as a natural remedy to support gut health.

Probiotics and Supplements

Adding probiotics, vitamins, and Cider Vinegar to the diet can help restore gut health and support the immune system during recovery.

What Treats Coccidiosis in Turkeys?

Anticoccidial drugs are the most effective treatment for coccidiosis in turkeys. Alongside medication, it’s essential to maintain a clean environment, ensure fresh drinking water and food, and monitor the turkeys closely for signs of recovery.

Prevention of Coccidiosis in Turkeys

Preventing coccidiosis in turkeys involves several steps that focus on reducing the risk of contamination and promoting a healthy environment:

• Maintain Clean Housing: Regularly clean and disinfect housing to reduce the presence of oocysts.
• Control Overcrowding: Overcrowding increases the risk of infection. Ensure adequate space for each turkey.
• Use of Coccidiostats: Add coccidiostats (anticoccidial medications) to feed or drinking water, especially for young turkeys.
• Vaccination: Some commercial farms use vaccines to protect turkeys from coccidiosis. These vaccines introduce a mild strain of the parasite to build natural immunity.
• Protect Against Wild Birds: Wild birds can introduce coccidiosis to farmed turkeys, so measures should be taken to keep them away.

Coccidiosis in Chickens and Turkeys

While similar, coccidiosis in chickens and turkeys is caused by different species of Eimeria. The strains affecting chickens do not typically infect turkeys, but both species require similar treatment and preventive measures to maintain healthy chickens and turkeys.

Coccidiosis in Turkeys and Humans

The strains of Eimeria that affect turkeys are generally not transmissible to humans. However, practicing good hygiene is always recommended to avoid any potential cross-contamination from infected birds to humans. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling turkeys or cleaning their living environment.

Administration and Precautions

When administering treatment to turkeys:

• Follow Dosage Instructions: Always adhere to the recommended dosage of anticoccidial medications. Overdosing can be harmful, while underdosing may lead to ineffective treatment.
• Provide Clean Water and Food: Ensure that drinking water and food sources are free from contamination and that turkeys are consuming enough to aid in recovery.
• Monitor the Flock: Closely observe your turkeys after starting treatment to ensure that they show signs of improvement.

Side Effects of Treatment

While anticoccidial medications are generally safe, there are a few potential side effects:

• Reduced Feed Intake: Some turkeys may stop eating medicated feed, delaying recovery.
• Digestive Upset: Mild digestive tract disturbances, such as diarrhea or vomiting, may occur.
• Toxicity: Overuse of certain drugs, like Amprolium, can lead to toxicity, causing lethargy or reduced appetite.

If you notice any unusual symptoms after treatment, consult a veterinarian.

Common FAQs About Coccidiosis in Turkeys

1. Can Coccidiosis in Turkeys Be Prevented?
   Yes, prevention includes maintaining clean living conditions, reducing overcrowding, and using anticoccidial medications. Vaccination may also be beneficial.
2. Can Humans Get Coccidiosis from Turkeys?
   The types of Eimeria that affect turkeys are not transmissible to humans. However, practicing good hygiene is essential to avoid cross-contamination.
3. How Do I Know if My Turkey Has Coccidiosis?
   Signs of coccidiosis in turkeys include diarrhea (often bloody), lethargy, weight loss, and reduced feed conversion. If you notice these symptoms, contact a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
4. Is Coccidiosis in Turkeys Fatal?
   Coccidiosis can be fatal if left untreated, especially in young turkeys. Early treatment can reduce the risk of death.
5. What Should I Do If I Think My Turkeys Have Coccidiosis?
   Isolate the infected bird, clean the housing, provide medications, and consult a veterinarian for further advice.

Conclusion

Coccidiosis in turkeys is a significant concern for poultry farmers, but with early detection, proper treatment, and preventive measures, it can be managed effectively. By maintaining a clean environment, monitoring your flock, and using the right medications, you can protect your turkeys from this common disease.

References

PoultryCure

PoultryMed

Merck Animal Health