Common Health Conditions in Geese: A Detailed Guide for Keepers

Geese are hardy and resilient birds, well-suited to life in various climates and settings. They are often easier to care for than chickens or ducks, but like all livestock, they can suffer from certain health conditions. Recognising early signs of illness and practising preventative care are vital to maintaining a healthy, productive flock.

This comprehensive guide outlines the most common health problems that affect domestic geese, along with rare but serious diseases, and how to deal with them effectively.

Bumblefoot

Overview

Bumblefoot (pododermatitis) is a common bacterial infection affecting the feet of geese. It occurs when bacteria enter through small cuts or abrasions, often caused by walking on rough or wet surfaces.

Symptoms

• Limping or reluctance to walk
• Swelling and redness on footpad
• Presence of a scab or abscess

Causes

• Rough or uneven terrain
• Prolonged exposure to wet ground
• Obesity

Treatment

• Clean the affected area with antiseptic
• Apply antibiotic ointment and bandage if possible
• Severe cases may require veterinary intervention

Prevention

• Provide soft, dry bedding
• Rotate grazing areas to avoid mud build-up
• Encourage foraging to prevent obesity

Respiratory Infections

Overview

Respiratory infections in geese can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi and are most common in damp, cold, or poorly ventilated conditions.

Symptoms

• Sneezing or coughing
• Nasal discharge
• Gurgling or rattling breath sounds
• Lethargy and reduced appetite

Causes

• Mouldy bedding or feed
• Poor ventilation
• Sudden weather changes

Treatment

• Isolate the affected bird
• Administer antibiotics if bacterial
• Provide warmth and clean environment

Prevention

• Ensure dry and well-ventilated housing
• Use dust-free bedding
• Maintain consistent temperatures

Gapeworm

Overview

Gapeworm is a parasitic worm that lodges in the trachea and causes respiratory distress in geese.

Symptoms

• Gasping or “gaping” for air
• Stretching neck
• Wheezing or head shaking
• Weight loss

Transmission

• Ingestion of intermediate hosts such as earthworms or snails

Treatment

• Use appropriate anthelmintics (dewormers)
• Isolate and treat affected geese

Prevention

• Avoid overgrazed or snail-infested pastures
• Deworm regularly, especially in wet seasons

Aspergillosis

Overview

Aspergillosis is a fungal respiratory infection caused by Aspergillus spores, typically from mouldy feed or bedding.

Symptoms

• Open-mouthed breathing
• Weakness and lethargy
• Weight loss
• Death in advanced cases

Causes

• Inhaling fungal spores from mouldy straw, grain, or litter

Treatment

• Remove mould sources immediately
• Provide antifungal medication as prescribed by a vet
• Supportive care with fluids and warmth

Prevention

• Store feed and bedding in dry conditions
• Replace damp bedding frequently
• Improve ventilation

Avian Influenza

Overview

A notifiable disease that can severely affect geese and other poultry. Highly contagious and potentially fatal.

Symptoms

• Sudden death
• Swelling around head and eyes
• Respiratory distress
• Green diarrhoea
• Nervous signs (tremors, twisted neck)

Transmission

• Wild birds are major carriers
• Spread through droppings, saliva, and contaminated water

Treatment

• No cure
• Notify animal health authorities immediately
• Affected birds may need to be culled

Prevention

• Keep geese away from wild birds
• Practise strict biosecurity
• Disinfect equipment and footwear

Pasteurellosis (Fowl Cholera)

Overview

Pasteurellosis is a bacterial infection affecting adult geese, particularly in wet, muddy environments.

Symptoms

• Sudden death without symptoms
• Lameness
• Swollen wattles and face
• Mucus discharge from beak

Causes

• Contaminated water or feed
• Spread by rodents and wild birds

Treatment

• Antibiotics such as sulphonamides
• Isolate and treat affected birds promptly

Prevention

• Keep housing and water clean
• Control rodents and wild bird access
• Vaccinate where outbreaks have occurred

Egg Binding

Overview

Egg binding occurs when a goose is unable to lay an egg, which can become fatal if not treated.

Symptoms

• Straining and restlessness
• Swollen or firm abdomen
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite

Causes

• Calcium deficiency
• Obesity
• Dehydration

Treatment

• Warm baths and gentle massage
• Calcium and vitamin supplements
• Veterinary intervention if the egg is retained

Prevention

• Provide a diet rich in calcium and balanced nutrients
• Ensure access to clean water
• Maintain a healthy weight

Vitamin Deficiencies

Overview

Geese require a well-balanced diet to avoid issues related to vitamin deficiencies, particularly vitamins A, D, E, and B-complex.

Symptoms

• Twisted neck (vitamin E deficiency)
• Weak legs or paralysis (niacin deficiency)
• Poor feather quality
• Reproductive issues

Treatment

• Supplement with appropriate vitamins
• Review and improve diet quality

Prevention

• Use commercial waterfowl pellets or balanced rations
• Add fresh greens and grains
• Avoid over-reliance on bread or human food

Worm Infestations

Overview

Geese can harbour several types of internal parasites, including roundworms and flukes.

Symptoms

• Poor weight gain or weight loss
• Diarrhoea
• Pale mucous membranes
• Poor feather condition

Treatment

• Routine deworming with poultry-safe medications
• Faecal testing by a vet if infestation is suspected

Prevention

• Rotate pastures
• Keep water sources clean
• Remove faeces regularly

Feather Pecking and Cannibalism

Overview

Though less common in geese than chickens, feather pecking can occur due to stress or dietary deficiencies.

Symptoms

• Bald patches
• Bleeding wounds
• Aggressive behaviour

Causes

• Overcrowding
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Boredom

Treatment

• Isolate aggressive individuals
• Treat wounds with antiseptic
• Improve diet and provide enrichment

Prevention

• Provide ample space and forage
• Add greens or hanging treats
• Avoid protein imbalances

Rare and Notifiable Diseases in Geese

Riemerella Anatipestifer (New Duck Disease)

• Affects geese similarly to ducks
• Neurological symptoms and sudden death
• Requires antibiotics and biosecurity

Tembusu Virus (Duck Egg Drop Syndrome)

• May affect geese in mixed flocks
• Spread by mosquitoes
• Egg production drops dramatically

Goose Parvovirus (Derzsy’s Disease)

• Affects goslings under 4 weeks
• Symptoms include diarrhoea, weakness, and sudden death
• Highly contagious and fatal
• Vaccination is key in endemic areas

Avian Tuberculosis

• Chronic wasting disease
• Transmitted via contaminated soil and faeces
• Zoonotic potential (rare in humans)
• No treatment; cull affected birds

West Nile Virus

• Spread by mosquitoes
• Neurological symptoms: tremors, seizures
• No treatment; supportive care only
• Prevention through mosquito control

Conclusion

While geese are generally robust and low-maintenance birds, they are still vulnerable to a range of diseases, some common and others more serious or rare. Good nutrition, proper hygiene, regular observation, and prompt treatment are the best ways to keep your flock in excellent health.

Always consult an avian vet if you notice unusual behaviour, persistent symptoms, or signs of distress. Prevention is key—but early intervention can save lives and prevent the spread of illness across your flock.