Ascites

Ascites is a non-infectious, metabolic disease characterized by pulmonary hypertension, right side heart failure and accumulation of excessive fluid (transudate) in the abdomen.

Respiratory infection or poor ventilation predisposes this condition. Symptoms include sudden death, live bird smaller than normal and reluctant to move respiratory distress. Combs and wattles are cyanotic. The abdomen is distended by abundant clear, yellow fluid and fibrin.

Treatment: Improve ventilation, Vitamin C , selenium and vitamin - E has been reported to be of benefit in ascites. Prevention: Good ventilation (including in incubation and chick transport), avoid any genetic tendency, control respiratory disease.