How to treat chicken feet for ticks? - briefly
Inspect the bird’s feet, grasp each tick with fine tweezers as close to the skin as possible, pull straight out, then disinfect the area with a mild antiseptic and, if infestation persists, apply a poultry‑approved acaricide according to label directions.
How to treat chicken feet for ticks? - in detail
Tick infestations on the feet of backyard poultry require prompt removal, thorough cleaning, and ongoing protection. The following protocol covers identification, immediate treatment, and preventive measures.
First, examine each bird’s feet daily. Look for engorged ticks lodged between the scales, especially around the webbing and the base of the claws. Use a fine‑toothed comb or tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight upward with steady pressure. Avoid twisting, which can leave mouthparts embedded and increase the risk of infection.
After removal, disinfect the affected area. Prepare a solution of 1 % povidone‑iodine or a diluted chlorhexidine wash. Apply with a sterile cotton swab, ensuring the solution contacts the entire foot surface. Allow the foot to air dry; do not rub the skin, which could cause additional trauma.
If any tick remains attached, treat the site with a topical acaricide approved for avian use. Permethrin‑based sprays at a concentration of 0.5 % are effective when applied sparingly to the foot and surrounding skin. Follow the product label for withdrawal periods before processing the birds for eggs or meat.
To reduce re‑infestation, implement environmental controls:
- Remove tall grass, weeds, and leaf litter from the coop yard; these habitats support tick larvae.
- Keep the coop floor dry, using sand or wood shavings that can be changed regularly.
- Apply diatomaceous earth around perches and nesting boxes; the abrasive particles dehydrate ticks on contact.
- Introduce a regular dust bath containing a mixture of fine sand and ash; chickens will self‑groom, dislodging parasites.
- Rotate pasture sections, allowing at least a two‑week fallow period to interrupt the tick life cycle.
Consider natural repellents as adjuncts. A dilute essential‑oil blend containing eucalyptus, lavender, and citronella (1 ml oil per liter of water) can be sprayed on the coop perimeter. Use caution: essential oils must be heavily diluted to avoid toxicity to birds.
Monitor the flock for signs of secondary infection, such as swelling, discharge, or lameness. If these symptoms appear, administer an appropriate antibiotic under veterinary guidance. Record all treatments, dates, and observations to track efficacy and adjust the program as needed.