What is used to treat lice in chickens? - briefly
Topical insecticides such as «permethrin» sprays or dusts, and oral medications like «ivermectin», are the primary agents for eliminating lice in chickens. Treatments must follow label instructions and respect withdrawal periods for birds used for food production.
What is used to treat lice in chickens? - in detail
Effective control of poultry lice requires an integrated approach that combines chemical, physical, and management measures.
Chemical options include synthetic pyrethroids such as permethrin and pyrethrins, applied as dusts, sprays, or shampoos. Recommended dosage is typically 0.5 g of permethrin dust per bird, applied to the vent area and under the wings, with a repeat treatment after seven days. Carbaryl dust, used at 0.2 g per bird, provides rapid knock‑down but carries a shorter residual effect and may require rotation with other classes to prevent resistance. Spinosad, a natural insecticide derived from Saccharopolyspora spinosa, is available as a 0.5 % suspension; administration follows label instructions, usually 1 mL per bird per week for three weeks. Ivermectin, delivered orally at 0.2 mg/kg body weight, offers systemic activity against both lice and mites, but withdrawal periods of 7 days must be observed before eggs or meat enter the food chain.
Physical methods complement chemicals. Dusting with diatomaceous earth (food‑grade, 2–3 g per bird) desiccates lice exoskeletons; effectiveness depends on thorough coverage of the plumage. Fine‑mesh netting around perches and nest boxes reduces re‑infestation from the environment. Regular removal of feather debris and litter replacement every 2–3 weeks eliminates breeding sites.
Management practices focus on breaking the life cycle. Daily inspection of birds for nits and adult lice enables early detection. Nest box cleaning with a 10 % bleach solution, followed by thorough rinsing and drying, removes hidden stages. Rotating coops or allowing a dry period of at least 14 days between flocks lowers residual populations. Providing low‑stress conditions, including adequate nutrition and ventilation, supports the immune response of the birds, reducing susceptibility to infestation.
When selecting a treatment, consider species tolerance, withdrawal times, and local resistance patterns. Combining a fast‑acting insecticide with environmental sanitation provides the most reliable eradication of lice in chickens.