Do backyard chickens need a vet?

Yes. Register with a vet who sees poultry. Sudden deaths, drop in egg production with lethargy, or breathing difficulty need prompt investigation.

What is avian influenza and what should I do?

Avian flu is a notifiable disease in the UK. If you suspect it — multiple sick birds, sudden deaths, swollen heads — contact your vet and APHA immediately. Do not move birds off site.

How do I prevent disease in my flock?

Biosecurity: clean boots, rodent control, quarantine new birds, and follow Defra housing orders when avian flu risk is high in your area.

Farm Animal Health

Chicken Health for UK Keepers — Backyard Poultry Guide

Published 1 June 2026Last updated 25 June 20261 min read

Quick answer

UK backyard chickens need secure housing, clean water, balanced feed, and strict biosecurity. Register with a poultry vet and know the signs of notifiable diseases such as avian influenza — report suspicions to your vet and APHA without delay.

Housing and welfare

Provide shelter from rain and predators, perches, nesting boxes, and space to dust-bathe. Defra may require birds to be housed during high avian flu risk periods — check current UK rules.

Nutrition

Layers pellets for egg-laying hens, grit for digestion, and constant fresh water. Occasional veg scraps are fine — avoid mouldy food and salty scraps.

Common problems

Red mite — anaemia, reduced laying; treat environment and birds
Respiratory disease — sneezing, swollen sinuses
Egg binding — straining, lethargy in hens
Bumblefoot — foot pad infection from rough perches or injury

When to call the vet

Multiple birds ill or dying, severe lameness, prolapse, or suspected notifiable disease. Keep a record of deaths for your vet and APHA if required.

Sources & further reading

Facts in this guide are rewritten in plain English from publicly available UK advice. We name the organisation where a specific point comes from their guidance. Links below go to the original pages — use them to read the source material directly.

PETHEALTH+ is independent. These organisations do not sponsor, approve, or partner with this website. Guidance checked against sources listed below (last updated 2026-06-25).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do backyard chickens need a vet?: Yes. Register with a vet who sees poultry. Sudden deaths, drop in egg production with lethargy, or breathing difficulty need prompt investigation.
What is avian influenza and what should I do?: Avian flu is a notifiable disease in the UK. If you suspect it — multiple sick birds, sudden deaths, swollen heads — contact your vet and APHA immediately. Do not move birds off site.
How do I prevent disease in my flock?: Biosecurity: clean boots, rodent control, quarantine new birds, and follow Defra housing orders when avian flu risk is high in your area.