Chicks have bedbugs: what should be done? - briefly
Isolate the affected chicks, treat their environment with an approved insecticide or heat‑based method, and apply a safe, veterinary‑recommended topical or oral medication to eliminate the parasites. Monitor the flock daily and improve sanitation to prevent reinfestation.
Chicks have bedbugs: what should be done? - in detail
Infestation of young poultry with Cimex spp. requires immediate, systematic intervention to protect animal welfare and prevent spread to the flock.
First, isolate the affected birds. Place the infested chicks in a separate, clean enclosure equipped with fresh bedding. Seal the enclosure to limit beetle movement.
Second, conduct a thorough cleaning of the original housing. Remove all litter, then wash walls, perches, and equipment with hot water (≥60 °C) and a detergent approved for use in poultry facilities. Follow with a rinse and allow surfaces to dry completely.
Third, apply an approved insecticide. Choose a product specifically labeled for bed‑bug control in agricultural settings, such as a pyrethroid‑based spray or a diatomaceous‑earth dust. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage and safety instructions, ensuring uniform coverage of cracks, crevices, and bedding areas. Repeat treatment according to the product’s residual activity schedule, typically every 7–10 days, until no live insects are observed.
Fourth, monitor the population. Use sticky traps placed near the floor and around perches to detect adult beetles. Examine the birds daily for signs of bites or stress. Record trap counts and visual inspections for at least three weeks after the final insecticide application.
Fifth, implement preventive measures:
- Rotate and replace bedding weekly; dispose of used material in sealed bags.
- Maintain low humidity (≤50 %) and temperatures below 25 °C where feasible, as these conditions reduce bed‑bug reproduction.
- Seal gaps in walls, doors, and ventilation ducts with caulk or metal mesh.
- Limit personnel movement between infected and healthy areas; require footbaths and hand sanitation.
Finally, document the entire process. Keep a log of isolation dates, cleaning procedures, insecticide products, application dates, trap data, and bird health observations. This record supports compliance with veterinary regulations and facilitates rapid response to any future outbreaks.