SECTION XI 



Diseases of the Respiratory 



Passages 



lu the fall, winter and spring, these diseases are 

 a sconrge to the poultry raiser, unless strict san- 

 itation is observed. 



Obstruction of the Trachea 



This is uncommon, except as a result of gape- 

 worm infestation. Fig. 45 illustrates a case that 

 was sent to the laboratory with the statement that 

 it had '^ gapes." This bird would extend its 

 head high into the air, gasping for breath as one 

 whose trachea is obstructed by gapeworms ; it was 

 weak and unable to stand squarely upon its feet. 

 It was destroyed for examination. A piece of a 

 grain of corn was found in the trachea, surrounded 

 by an accumulation of mucus caused by the irrita- 

 tion its presence in the trachea caused. The for- 

 eign body and the accumulated mucus were ob- 

 structing the passage of air to the lungs ; hence, the 

 asphyxiation. 



Catarrh, Colds 



Cause. — Sudden changes in the weather, cold, 

 damp weather, roosting in draughts, and chilling 

 by getting wet in cold rains is often a factor in the 

 production of catarrh among birds. Such af- 

 fections are more or less contagious, but bad san- 

 itation plays an important part in their spread. 

 Weak stock and poorly nourished birds are pre- 

 disposed to this contagion. 



139 



