Chickens are susceptible to various mites like lice and scabies, posing risks to their health. To effectively tackle mites in the henhouse, identification and proper treatment are crucial. Here’s how to deal with them:
Lice: Lice feed on dead cells of chickens’ feathers and skin. Provide a tray with sand, earth, and ashes for chickens to dust bathe in. Disinfect the henhouse and apply anti-lice repellent to chickens’ feathers. For red mites, ventilate the henhouse, disinfect thoroughly, and treat chickens with diatomaceous earth or wood ash regularly.
Scabies: Scabies is challenging to detect but may cause excessive feather loss and scratching. Apply diluted real cade oil to chickens’ skin regularly until cured. Treat scabies on feet by applying cade oil. Clean the coop thoroughly and change the litter.
Deworming the Chicken Coop: Prevention is key. Incorporate aromatic substances and essential oils into chickens’ food to deter mites. Additional methods include:
- Spreading vegetable oils or anti-lice chemicals directly on lice.
- Introducing predatory mites.
- Using natural active substances mixed with water for a repellent effect.
Regular cleaning, proper hygiene, and preventive measures are essential to maintaining a healthy chicken coop and protecting your chickens from mites.
