What to do if broilers have lice? - briefly
Inspect the birds, isolate affected individuals, and apply a licensed poultry acaricide according to label instructions while thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the housing. Monitor the flock for reinfestation and repeat treatment if necessary.
What to do if broilers have lice? - in detail
If broiler chickens are found to be infested with lice, immediate action is required to protect bird health, performance, and flock integrity.
First, confirm the presence of parasites by inspecting the vent area, legs, and under feathers for live insects, nits, or irritation. Use a bright light and a fine-toothed comb to collect specimens for identification if needed.
Next, isolate affected birds in a separate pen to prevent spread. Provide clean water and a balanced diet to support immune response during treatment.
Apply an approved ectoparasiticide according to label instructions. Common options include:
- Diluted pyrethrin spray applied to the entire bird, avoiding the eyes and beak.
- Wet-dip method using a commercial lice dip solution, ensuring thorough coverage of plumage and skin.
- Systemic ivermectin administered in drinking water at the recommended dose.
After treatment, repeat the application after 7–10 days to eliminate emerging nymphs. Monitor all birds daily for signs of re‑infestation.
Sanitize the environment thoroughly. Remove litter, disinfect housing structures with a virucidal disinfectant, and replace bedding with fresh material. Treat equipment, perches, and feeders with an appropriate insecticide residual spray.
Implement preventive measures:
- Maintain low stocking density to reduce stress and skin damage.
- Schedule regular litter changes and keep the house dry.
- Conduct routine health checks every two weeks, focusing on vent and feather condition.
- Rotate effective ectoparasitic agents annually to avoid resistance.
Record all observations, treatments, and outcomes in a flock health log. This documentation supports future decision‑making and compliance with veterinary guidelines.