How should chickens be treated for fleas with delcid? - briefly
Treat chickens with a topical application of deltamethrin (Delcid) at the label‑recommended concentration, spraying the entire bird—including vent area—while they are restrained, then repeat the treatment after 7‑10 days to break the flea life cycle. Ensure proper ventilation and observe withdrawal periods before processing for meat or eggs.
How should chickens be treated for fleas with delcid? - in detail
Treating a flock for flea infestation with delcid requires a systematic approach that addresses dosage, application method, environmental preparation, and post‑treatment monitoring.
First, calculate the correct dose. Delcid is a 0.05 % deltamethrin suspension; the label recommends 0.5 ml per kilogram of body weight for poultry. Weigh a representative sample of birds, determine the average weight, and multiply by the dosage factor to obtain the total volume needed for the entire flock.
Second, prepare the birds and coop. Remove all feed and water sources for at least one hour before spraying. Clean the coop thoroughly, discarding litter, debris, and any organic matter that can harbor fleas. Replace bedding with fresh material after treatment.
Third, apply the product. Use a calibrated hand‑held sprayer or a low‑pressure fogger to deliver an even mist over the birds’ bodies, ensuring coverage of the ventral and dorsal surfaces, underwings, and tail region. Simultaneously, treat the coop walls, perches, and nesting boxes. Avoid excessive runoff; a fine mist maximizes contact while minimizing waste.
Fourth, enforce a withdrawal period. Delcid residues persist in eggs and meat; the label specifies a minimum of five days before eggs are collected for consumption and ten days before processing birds for meat. Observe these intervals strictly to ensure food safety.
Fifth, repeat the treatment. Flea life cycles demand a second application 7–10 days after the initial dose to eliminate emerging adults. Follow the same dosage and application protocol for the follow‑up treatment.
Sixth, monitor efficacy. Inspect birds daily for signs of flea activity—scratching, visible insects, or blood spots on feathers. Examine the coop for dead fleas or eggs. If infestation persists after the second dose, consider integrating additional control measures such as diatomaceous earth in bedding or rotating to an alternative acaricide.
Finally, maintain preventive practices. Rotate litter regularly, keep the coop dry, and limit exposure to wild birds or rodents that can reintroduce parasites. Consistent hygiene, combined with scheduled deltamethrin treatments, sustains a flea‑free environment for the flock.