Understanding Different Types of Chicken Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Chicken diarrhea is one of the most common health concerns for poultry farmers. It can appear in different colors and forms — each indicating a possible underlying issue. Recognizing these signs early helps prevent serious illness and flock loss.
The image above shows six major types of chicken diarrhea — yellow, green, white, red/bloody, watery, and foamy — each with unique causes and treatments.

🟡 1. Yellow Diarrhea
Possible Causes:
• Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro)
• Liver problems or stress
• Excess protein or poor-quality feed
Symptoms:
• Lethargy, ruffled feathers
• Reduced feed intake
• Yellowish droppings with foul smell
Treatment:
• Give vitamins and electrolytes to support recovery.
• Improve feed quality and avoid overfeeding protein.
• In case of infection, seek veterinary advice for proper medication.
🟢 2. Green Diarrhea
Possible Causes:
• Newcastle disease or avian influenza
• Starvation or feed shortage
• Bacterial infection (Salmonella)
Symptoms:
• Green watery feces
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness and drop in egg production
Treatment:
• Provide balanced nutrition and clean water.
• Use antibiotics under veterinary supervision if infection is suspected.
• Vaccinate flock to prevent viral diseases.
⚪ 3. White Diarrhea
Possible Causes:
• Pullorum disease (Salmonella pullorum) — common in chicks
• Kidney disorder or excessive salt intake
Symptoms:
• Chalky white droppings around the vent
• Lethargy, drooping wings
• Increased thirst
Treatment:
• Reduce salt in feed and water.
• Maintain proper hygiene and temperature.
• Consult a vet for antibacterial medication.
🔴 4. Red/Bloody Diarrhea
Possible Causes:
• Coccidiosis, a parasitic infection caused by Eimeria species
Symptoms:
• Blood or dark red droppings
• Dehydration and rapid weight loss
• Pale comb and weakness
Treatment:
• Administer anti-coccidial medicine (e.g., Amprolium) as per vet’s advice.
• Clean coop daily and keep litter dry.
• Add probiotics after treatment to restore gut health.
💧 5. Watery Diarrhea
Possible Causes:
• Heat stress or dehydration
• Poor feed quality
• Bacterial infection
Symptoms:
• Watery, colorless droppings
• Reduced appetite and energy
• Possible dehydration
Treatment:
• Provide electrolytes and clean water constantly.
• Keep coop well-ventilated and cool.
• Offer quality feed with balanced nutrients.
💭 6. Watery/Foamy Diarrhea
Possible Causes:
• Intestinal imbalance or gut infection
• Overuse of antibiotics
• Coccidiosis (mild stage)
Symptoms:
• Foamy or bubbly droppings
• Unthrifty appearance
• Drop in egg laying
Treatment:
• Give probiotics or gut tonics to restore digestion.
• Clean feeders and waterers daily.
• Use prescribed anti-coccidial medication if needed.

🧫 General Prevention Tips
✅ Maintain clean litter and dry coop conditions
✅ Provide clean, fresh water daily
✅ Avoid sudden feed changes
✅ Use dewormers and probiotics regularly
✅ Follow a strict vaccination schedule
✅ Isolate sick birds immediately
⸻
🩺 When to Seek Veterinary Help
Contact a veterinarian if:
• Diarrhea persists for more than 2–3 days
• There’s blood in the droppings
• Multiple birds are affected
• Birds show severe weakness or stop eating
🌿 Conclusion
Diarrhea in chickens isn’t a disease by itself—it’s a sign that something’s wrong. Whether caused by infection, parasites, or diet, early care can save your flock from major losses. Keep your coop clean, feed nutritious food, and observe your birds daily. Healthy chickens mean better growth, production, and profits.