ULCERATIVE ENTERITIS (QUAIL DISEASE)

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Causative Agent(s)

Clostridium colinum, Spore-forming anaerobic rod

Clinical Presentation and Epidemiology

Transmission is by shedding of the organism in faeces. Disease is acquired via ingestion of contaminated food or water. The causative bacterium is spore-forming such that contamination of premises is permanent. Birds with chronic disease remain carriers.

The disease in quails appear as acute disease with high mortality. Signs in chickens are less dramatic. Droppings are streaked with urates and surrounded by a watery ring. Chronic infection causes listlessness and anorexia with a humped-up appearance and partially closed eyes.

Diagnostic Consideration

Demonstrate of typical Gram-positive rods in Gram-stained blood, liver and spleen samples. Organism can be cultured under anaerobic conditions. Fluorescent antibody test is available.

Management and Treatment

Bacitracin and streptomycin (in food or water) are the most effective drugs. Tetracyclines (200g/ton of feed) can also be used. Raise quail on wire or slat floors to prevent faecal contamination. Bacitracin methylene disalicylate can be used at 200 grams per ton for treatment of ulcerative enteritis in quail. Streptomycin 1g/L PO for 5 days.