How should chicken feet be treated for mites? - briefly
Treat chicken feet infested with mites by first soaking them in warm water with a mild detergent, rinsing thoroughly, then applying a poultry‑approved acaricide such as a permethrin spray or dip, and allowing the feet to dry completely before returning the birds to the flock. This combination of cleaning and targeted chemical treatment eliminates mites and prevents reinfestation.
How should chicken feet be treated for mites? - in detail
Mite infestation on poultry feet requires prompt, thorough intervention. The first step is a careful inspection of each bird’s feet, focusing on the webbing, pads, and surrounding skin for signs of irritation, crusting, or live mites. Any affected bird should be isolated to prevent spread.
The treatment protocol consists of three main actions:
- Mechanical cleaning – soak feet in warm water (≈40 °C) containing a mild detergent for 5–10 minutes. Gently scrub the webbing with a soft brush to dislodge mites and remove debris. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean cloth.
- Topical acaricide application – apply a licensed spray or dip product (e.g., pyrethrin‑based or organophosphate‑free formulation) directly to the cleaned feet, ensuring coverage of the webbing and pads. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage and withdrawal interval precisely.
- Systemic medication – administer an oral or injectable acaricidal drug (such as ivermectin or selamectin) according to veterinary guidance. Systemic treatment aids in eliminating mites that have migrated beyond the foot surface.
Environmental management supports the therapeutic effort:
- Remove and replace litter in the affected area; use sand or fine wood shavings that allow easy cleaning.
- Treat the coop floor and perches with a safe disinfectant; consider a residual acaricide in cracks and crevices.
- Maintain low humidity and adequate ventilation to create an unfavorable environment for mite reproduction.
After treatment, re‑examine the feet daily for two weeks. Repeat the topical application if live mites persist, but avoid exceeding the recommended frequency to prevent resistance. Implement a regular foot‑inspection schedule and routine litter turnover to minimize future infestations.