What should you do if chickens have lice at home?

What should you do if chickens have lice at home? - briefly

Isolate the affected birds, apply a licensed poultry lice treatment (spray, powder, or dip) according to label directions, and thoroughly clean the coop, removing all litter and bedding. Repeat the treatment after the lice life cycle ends and monitor the flock for any signs of reinfestation.

What should you do if chickens have lice at home? - in detail

If lice are discovered on your poultry, immediate action prevents a rapid population surge and protects flock health. Begin with a thorough inspection of each bird, looking for tiny, crab‑like insects moving along the vent area, under the wings, and around the neck. Note the severity of infestation to plan treatment intensity.

1. Isolation

   • Separate affected chickens from the rest of the flock.
   • Use a clean, disinfected pen with fresh bedding.

2. Chemical control

   • Apply a poultry‑approved insecticide spray or dust, following label directions for dosage and safety intervals.
   • Ensure the product is labeled for lice, not just mites or flies.
   • Re‑treat after 7–10 days to break the life cycle, as eggs may survive the first application.

3. Environmental sanitation

   • Remove all soiled bedding, manure, and debris from coops and runways.
   • Clean surfaces with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 32 parts water) or a commercial poultry disinfectant.
   • Allow the coop to dry completely before adding fresh straw or shavings.

4. Preventive measures

   • Rotate bedding weekly to reduce moisture buildup.
   • Keep the coop dry, well‑ventilated, and free of cracks where parasites can hide.
   • Conduct regular visual checks, especially after introducing new birds.

5. Nutritional support

   • Provide a balanced diet enriched with vitamins A and E to bolster skin integrity.
   • Offer herbal supplements such as diatomaceous earth or garlic powder, which have mild antiparasitic properties, but do not replace chemical treatment.

6. Monitoring

   • Record observations daily: number of lice seen, bird behavior, and any skin lesions.
   • Continue inspections for at least three weeks after the final treatment to confirm eradication.

If the infestation persists despite these steps, consult a veterinarian experienced with poultry. They may recommend prescription‑strength medications or alternative protocols. Prompt, systematic intervention eliminates lice, preserves bird welfare, and prevents loss of eggs or growth performance.