What should be done if chickens have mites? - briefly
Treat the infestation promptly with a veterinary‑approved acaricide, applying it according to label directions and treating all birds and the coop, including perches, nesting boxes, and litter. Follow up by cleaning, drying, and regularly rotating bedding to prevent re‑infestation.
What should be done if chickens have mites? - in detail
If chickens become infested with mites, immediate action is required to protect the flock’s health and prevent spread.
First, confirm the presence of mites by inspecting the birds and their environment. Look for small, moving specks on the skin, especially around the vent, under the wings, and on the breast. Examine the coop’s perches, nesting boxes, and dust‑bathing areas for dark specks or fine webs.
Next, isolate affected birds. Move them to a clean, separate enclosure equipped with fresh bedding, clean water, and a dedicated feeder. This limits transmission to healthy individuals while treatment proceeds.
Thoroughly clean and disinfect the primary coop:
- Remove all bedding, litter, and debris; discard or steam‑sterilize.
- Scrub walls, perches, and nesting boxes with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or an approved poultry disinfectant.
- Rinse thoroughly and allow surfaces to dry completely.
- Replace bedding with fresh, low‑dust material such as pine shavings.
Treat the birds directly. Options include:
- Topical acaricides – Apply a poultry‑safe spray or powder (e.g., pyrethrin‑based products) according to label instructions. Ensure complete coverage of the neck, back, vent, and underwing areas.
- Dust baths – Provide a mixture of diatomaceous earth, wood ash, and fine sand. Allow birds to bathe for at least 30 minutes daily; the abrasive particles damage mite exoskeletons.
- Herbal remedies – Use neem oil or eucalyptus oil diluted in water for a spray. These oils have repellent properties but should be tested on a few birds first to avoid irritation.
- Systemic medication – In severe cases, consult a veterinarian for prescription‑only treatments such as ivermectin administered in drinking water.
After treatment, maintain a strict hygiene routine:
- Clean feeders and waterers daily.
- Rotate litter every two weeks.
- Keep the coop dry; fix leaks and improve ventilation to reduce humidity, which favors mite development.
- Conduct weekly visual inspections of all birds and the environment.
Finally, monitor the flock for at least six weeks. Re‑apply topical treatments if live mites are observed. Record any recurring infestations and adjust management practices accordingly to prevent future outbreaks.