Can Your Chicken Have a Heart Attack? Signs, Symptoms and Prevention Tips from the Pros

Although avian cardiovascular research often focuses on companion parrot species, other birds, including chickens, can also develop heart disease. Large breed chickens, particularly those bred for rapid growth and weight gain, are particularly susceptible, as are chickens exposed to poor diets or environmental stress. This article will cover the most common types of heart disease in chickens, key warning signs, and available treatment options.

It's crucial to understand the factors that lead to heart disease in chickens in order to maintain the health of your flock. If you're concerned that your chickens are showing signs of distress, consult an avian vet immediately. For general information and helpful tips, you can begin here: 

Understanding Heart Disease in Chickens

Heart disease refers to a broad category of conditions that affect the heart’s structure or function, leading to a reduced ability to pump blood effectively around the body. It encompasses more than just one disease, including a variety of disorders, including:

1. Atherosclerosis: The buildup of plaque in the arteries restricts blood flow to the heart, which can lead to cardiac arrest or stroke. Chickens fed a diet high in cholesterol and saturated fats as well as those infected with certain viral diseases are predisposed to develop atherosclerotic-like lesions in the arteries. 
   

2. Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a progressive condition that affects the heart muscle, causing it to enlarge and weaken, which reduces the heart's ability to contract and generate the pressure needed to pump blood through the body. This can lead to congestive heart failure, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), fainting (syncope), and even sudden death. Large-breed chickens with unrestricted access to grower feed are at the greatest risk of developing DCM.
   

3. Ascites or Pulmonary Hypertension Syndrome:  This a form of right-sided heart failure caused by pulmonary hypertension, a condition specific to juvenile large breed chickens due to their rapid growth. The syndrome occurs when the pulmonary blood vessels are unable to meet the increased oxygen demands, resulting in elevated blood pressure, vascular damage, and fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity. It is most commonly observed in young large-breed chickens during rapid growth phases, periods of temperature stress, or at high altitudes.
   

4. Sudden Death Syndrome: Sudden death syndrome is commonly seen in rapidly growing young broiler chickens. While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to be linked to a metabolic disorder that makes the birds more susceptible to cardiac arrhythmias.

Symptoms of Heart Disease in Chickens

Symptoms of heart disease in chickens include:

• Lethargy: If your chicken is unusually inactive or seems sluggish, this could be a sign of heart issues. 
  

• Labored Breathing: Chickens suffering from heart problems often show signs of respiratory distress, especially after physical activity. Respiratory rate increases and chickens may open their mouths and appear to “pant”. Chickens may sound gurgly while breathing. 
  

• Distended Abdomen: This sign is mainly seen in young large breed chickens suffering pulmonary hypertension syndrome/ascites syndrome. The abdomen appears swollen and feels fluid-filled on palpation.
  

• Bluish Comb and Wattles: A pale or blue-purple tint in the comb and wattles can indicate poor circulation, a common symptom of heart disease.
  

Spotting these symptoms early and consulting with an avian vet can give your poultry a better chance of recovery. This chicken care guide offers practical tips for maintaining overall health and recognizing when to seek veterinary care.

Causes of Heart Disease

Multiple factors contribute to heart attacks in chickens, and they often work in combination:

1. Rapid Growth and High Body Weight: While large breeds are most at risk, any chicken can suffer heart issues when they gain weight too quickly.
   

2. Poor Diet: High-fat and high-calorie diets contribute to obesity and can clog arteries, leading to a higher risk of heart disease.
   

3. Genetic Predisposition: Certain breeds are more genetically predisposed to heart problems, especially those bred for rapid growth or high production.
   

   • Large Breed Chickens: Cornish Crosses are especially susceptible to heart disease because of their rapid growth and high body weight. Both adults and juveniles face a heightened risk, with heart failure being a leading cause of death in young birds, affecting roughly one in every 100 commercially raised chickens. As they grow, their pulmonary and respiratory systems struggle to meet the increased metabolic demands, putting significant strain on the heart and often leading to heart failure.
     

   • Commercial Layers: High-production breeds like White Leghorns and Rhode Island Reds, bred for maximum egg output are susceptible to various heart conditions secondary to hypocalcemia caused by continuous egg laying. 
     

4. Infectious Disease: certain viral diseases such as Marek’s Disease can cause atherosclerosis-like plaques to form in the arteries, leading to heart disease. 
   

5. Environmental Stress: Overcrowded coops, temperature extremes, and lack of exercise all place additional stress on a chicken’s cardiovascular system.
   

Prevention Tips

While heart disease can sometimes be inevitable due to genetics, you can still take several measures to reduce the risk:

• Portion Control: while most chickens should have access to a balanced formulated diet at all times during the day, large breed chickens such as cornish crosses must be fed restricted portions to reduce the risk of growth-related cardiovascular disease. 
  

• Balanced Nutrition: Provide your chickens with a diet tailored to their breed and life stage, avoiding excess fats and limiting treats. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is crucial for preventing obesity and promoting heart health. Offering fresh greens, vegetables, and breed-specific feed can significantly reduce the risk of heart-related issues.
  

• Promote Activity: Chickens benefit from having plenty of space to roam and engage in natural behaviors like foraging and scratching. Encouraging activity keeps their weight in check and reduces stress, both of which are crucial for a healthy heart. Consider rotating free-range areas or adding enrichment like perches and dust baths to keep them active and engaged.
  

• Minimize Stress: Ensure your flock has a stable, comfortable environment with ample space, shelter, and freshwater to keep them healthy and content. Overcrowding, poor living conditions, and sudden changes can cause stress, making chickens more susceptible to heart disease and other health issues. Consistent routines, along with clean, well-ventilated spaces, are essential for minimizing stress and promoting overall well-being.
  

• Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups with an avian vet help catch issues early before they escalate into more serious conditions. A veterinarian can often identify subtle signs of heart disease on physical exams that might be easy to miss and offer targeted advice for managing your chicken’s health. If your veterinarian confirms your chicken has heart disease there are medications available that can slow progress and manage symptoms to give your feathered friend a better quality of life. 
  

Don’t forget to check out our complete chicken care guide for additional information on best care practices.

When to See a Chicken Vet

If you notice any symptoms of heart disease in your chickens or suspect that something is off, time can make a big difference. Schedule an appointment immediately. We also recommend an annual visit to an avian vet, who can not only address immediate health concerns but also offer preventive advice tailored to your flock’s specific needs. 

For more information on avian heart disease and what signs to watch for, check out our blog: What to Know About Heart Disease in Birds.