Chickens have fleas: what should you do? - briefly
If your flock is infested, isolate the affected birds, apply a suitable poultry‑safe flea spray or powder, and repeat the treatment according to the product’s schedule. Thoroughly clean and disinfect the coop, replace bedding, and maintain regular dust‑bathing areas to prevent re‑infestation.
Chickens have fleas: what should you do? - in detail
Fleas on a flock indicate a breach in biosecurity and can cause irritation, anemia, and reduced egg production. Immediate action reduces suffering and prevents spread.
First, confirm the presence of fleas. Look for small, jumping insects on the birds’ skin, especially around the vent and under the wings. Examine droppings for black specks that may be flea feces. Use a fine-toothed comb or a flea trap (a dish of soapy water placed near the coop) to collect specimens for identification.
Once infestation is verified, follow a three‑phase protocol:
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Treat the birds
- Apply a poultry‑safe insecticide spray or dust, covering the entire body, including the head, neck, and vent area.
- Use a product containing pyrethrin or permethrin, adhering to label dosage and withdrawal periods.
- Repeat treatment after 7–10 days to target emerging nymphs.
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Sanitize the environment
- Remove all bedding, litter, and nesting material; replace with fresh, dry substrate.
- Scrub coop walls, perches, and feeding stations with a detergent solution, then rinse thoroughly.
- Apply an approved residual insecticide to cracks, crevices, and the floor, allowing proper drying time before re‑introducing birds.
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Control the external source
- Treat the surrounding yard, focusing on grass, shrubs, and any wildlife habitats that could harbor fleas.
- Use a granular or liquid insecticide labeled for outdoor use, following recommended application rates.
- Install physical barriers such as fine mesh around coop openings to limit entry of wild rodents and birds.
Preventive measures sustain a flea‑free flock:
- Rotate bedding weekly and keep moisture levels low; fleas thrive in damp conditions.
- Conduct monthly inspections using a flea comb or sticky traps.
- Maintain a regular schedule of deworming and health checks; a healthy immune system reduces susceptibility.
- Limit contact with stray animals and control rodent populations through traps or professional pest management.
Record each treatment, including product name, concentration, date, and dosage. Documentation assists in evaluating efficacy and complies with veterinary drug regulations. Continuous monitoring for at least six weeks after the final treatment ensures the infestation is fully resolved.