How to remove fleas from chickens? - briefly
Apply a poultry‑safe insecticide to the coop, clean all bedding, and give the birds a warm soapy bath; follow with a regular dusting of food‑grade diatomaceous earth to kill remaining fleas. Maintain dry, clean housing to prevent reinfestation.
How to remove fleas from chickens? - in detail
Fleas infestations in poultry can cause irritation, anemia, and reduced egg production. Effective eradication requires a systematic approach that targets the insects, the birds, and the environment.
Begin by isolating the affected flock. Move chickens to a clean, flea‑free area while you treat the original coop. This prevents reinfestation during the cleaning process.
Treat the birds directly. Apply a poultry‑safe insecticide such as pyrethrin‑based dust or a topical spray formulated for chickens. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions, ensuring coverage of the ventral surface, underwings, and neck. Repeat the application after 7–10 days to interrupt the flea life cycle.
Clean the coop thoroughly. Remove all bedding, litter, and droppings. Wash perches, nesting boxes, and feeders with hot, soapy water. Disinfect surfaces with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 32 parts water) and allow them to dry completely.
Address the environment. Fill cracks, gaps, and crevices with sealant to eliminate hiding places. Place diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) in a thin layer on the floor and in nesting areas; the abrasive particles damage flea exoskeletons and cause dehydration. Re‑add fresh bedding after the area is dry.
Implement ongoing prevention. Rotate bedding weekly, keep the coop dry, and maintain good ventilation. Schedule regular inspections for flea activity, and apply a low‑dose preventive spray monthly during warm months when flea populations surge.
Monitor the flock for signs of irritation or anemia. If symptoms persist after two treatment cycles, consult a veterinarian for alternative medications or a possible secondary infestation.