How can you remove fleas from hens? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved insecticidal spray or dust to the hens, covering feathers and skin as instructed on the product label. Then clean the coop thoroughly, discard contaminated bedding, and replace it with fresh material to interrupt the flea life cycle.
How can you remove fleas from hens? - in detail
Flea infestations in laying hens compromise health, egg quality, and productivity. Effective control requires a systematic approach that combines immediate treatment, environmental sanitation, and preventive measures.
The first step is to treat the birds directly. Apply a veterinary‑approved insecticide formulated for poultry, such as a pyrethrin‑based spray or a fipronil pour‑on. Follow the product label for dosage, application method, and withdrawal period before eggs are collected. Treat each bird thoroughly, paying special attention to the vent area, under the wings, and the skin folds where adult fleas and larvae hide.
Next, address the coop environment. Remove all bedding, feed, and manure, then clean surfaces with hot water and a disinfectant that is safe for poultry. After cleaning, replace bedding with fresh, low‑moisture material such as pine shavings. Treat the coop structure with an appropriate residual insecticide, applying it to cracks, perches, nesting boxes, and the floor. Repeat the residual treatment every 2–3 weeks for at least two months to break the flea life cycle.
Implement ongoing prevention:
- Rotate bedding weekly and dispose of soiled material promptly.
- Keep the coop dry; repair leaks and improve ventilation to reduce humidity, which favors flea development.
- Limit contact with wild birds and rodents that can carry fleas; secure feed stores with metal lids.
- Conduct weekly inspections, looking for flea movement on the birds or in the litter.
If the infestation persists after three treatment cycles, consult a veterinarian for alternative medications or a possible secondary parasite problem. Maintaining strict hygiene and regular monitoring eliminates fleas and safeguards the flock’s welfare.