How to treat broilers for lice? - briefly
Apply a licensed poultry dust or spray containing permethrin or pyrethrin at the label‑recommended rate, treating the entire flock and its environment. Repeat the application after 7–10 days and thoroughly clean litter to interrupt the lice life cycle.
How to treat broilers for lice? - in detail
Lice infestations in broiler flocks require rapid identification and decisive intervention to prevent reduced weight gain, feather damage, and increased mortality. Effective control combines chemical treatment, environmental management, and biosecurity measures.
First, confirm the presence of lice by inspecting the vent region, feather shafts, and skin for live insects or nits. Collect a sample for laboratory identification if species determination is necessary, as treatment choice may vary between Menoponidae and Philopteridae.
Chemical options include:
- Topical insecticides: Permethrin 0.5 % spray applied at 1 ml per bird, covering the vent area and underwing feathers. Repeat after 7 days to interrupt the life cycle.
- Systemic agents: Ivermectin administered in drinking water at 200 µg/kg body weight for three consecutive days. Ensure water consumption exceeds 2 L per 100 kg of birds.
- Aerosol powders: Carbaryl dusted at a rate of 0.2 g per bird, targeting the vent and leg regions. Use only in well‑ventilated houses; observe withdrawal period of 48 hours before slaughter.
When using any product, observe label‑specified withdrawal times to guarantee meat safety. Record dosage, application date, and batch numbers for traceability.
Environmental control measures:
- Remove litter and replace with fresh bedding after treatment.
- Clean and disinfect housing surfaces with a 2 % glutaraldehyde solution.
- Apply a residual insecticide spray to walls, perches, and equipment to reduce re‑infestation.
Biosecurity practices:
- Restrict movement of personnel and equipment between houses.
- Quarantine new birds for at least 14 days, inspecting for ectoparasites before integration.
- Implement a routine monitoring schedule: visual checks twice weekly and a thorough inspection every 30 days.
Integrated management plan:
- Diagnose and document infestation level.
- Apply selected chemical treatment according to dosage guidelines.
- Perform litter removal and thorough cleaning within 24 hours.
- Re‑treat after 7 days to target emerging nymphs.
- Maintain strict biosecurity and regular monitoring to detect any resurgence.
Adhering to this protocol minimizes economic losses and restores flock health promptly.