Advice on dealing with scaly leg mites

[FlockNoir]

My chickens have scaly leg mites. I got them off craigslist and right away noticed their feet looked strange. Some googling and I realize it’s definitely slm.

Now I know you can treat slm with vaseline or various other oils, I even bought a spray that’s supposed to get rid of them. Originally that’s what I tried to do, washed their feet in warm soapy water with a toothbrush, dried them thoroughly and then applied vaseline. But these chickens have clearly never been handled and hate being picked up. I’ve tried going out at night but they get spooked and wake each other up. It’s been very difficult for me to have any kind of consistency because if I manage to get one the rest will have none of it.

I thought it was nearly all cleared up but then 2 of my hens went broody and hatched a few eggs and when they were done their feet started to look bad again. A different hen has them really bad (despite me having treated them as described above several times).

I just want it taken care of. Is there an easier way? I’ve heard of using ivermectin cattle pour on but it’s kind of expensive for me to buy (I can only find huge jugs of it for sale). Is there a poultry specific product that I can give them that will take care of the slm once and for all? Thanks

 

[CluckerFamily]

I would keep doing what you are doing. The broody hens may not have been cleared when they went broody. Maybe a towel would help to put over them to keep them calm when you grab them at night, just make sure they can still breathe.
Hopefully, others have better ideas than me.

 

[21hens-incharge]

I am sorry you are fighting such a persistent problem.

I know even my tame(ish) birds prefer not to be handled. It is certainly not easy to soak the legs.

Unfortunately it needs to happen. Warm Epsom salt water and soak for 15-20 minutes will soften the crud up better than soap and water. Not an easy task I know.

I am not sure on any systemic treatment but.....

Soaking and slathering is effective over time. Non stick cooking spray, olive oil, vegetable oil, and vasaline are what I am familiar with being recommended.
The scales on the legs get replaced during molting so it can take a long long time of repeated treatment to see much improvement.