How to treat a mite on chickens' legs? - briefly
Apply a poultry‑approved acaricide (e.g., permethrin or pyrethrin) directly to the affected legs, then clean and disinfect the coop and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to interrupt the mite life cycle. Provide a high‑protein diet and monitor for secondary infections to aid recovery.
How to treat a mite on chickens' legs? - in detail
Mite infestations on poultry legs cause irritation, feather loss, and reduced productivity. The most common culprits are Northern Fowl Mite (Ornithonyssus sylviarum) and Red Mite (Dermanyssus gallinae). Early detection relies on observing scaly or reddened skin, excessive preening, and the presence of tiny, moving specks on the legs or in the coop litter.
Treatment proceeds in three phases: immediate relief, environmental decontamination, and ongoing prevention.
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Immediate relief
- Separate affected birds into a clean, well‑ventilated holding area.
- Trim damaged feathers and clean the legs with warm water and a mild, non‑soap detergent.
- Apply a veterinary‑approved topical acaricide (e.g., pyrethrin‑based spray or selamectin) according to label dosage; repeat after 7 days to cover the mite life cycle.
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Environmental decontamination
- Remove all bedding, manure, and debris; replace with fresh, dry material.
- Treat the coop interior with an acaricidal dust or spray, focusing on perches, nest boxes, and cracks where mites hide.
- Use a high‑temperature steam or heat treatment (≥ 55 °C) on equipment and cages for at least 30 minutes to kill eggs and larvae.
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Ongoing prevention
- Keep the coop dry; fix leaks and ensure adequate ventilation to reduce humidity.
- Rotate bedding weekly and clean the coop thoroughly every 2–3 weeks.
- Apply a preventive dust (e.g., diatomaceous earth) to perches and nesting areas monthly.
- Monitor birds weekly for signs of re‑infestation; treat promptly if mites reappear.
If topical products fail or the infestation spreads, consult a veterinarian for systemic medication (e.g., ivermectin) and for guidance on dosage adjustments. Record all treatments, dates, and observations to track efficacy and adjust protocols as needed.