Eye Worms???? Help please.....

[booogirl51]

I recently acquired 5 hens (all different breeds, ranging from 2-4 months in age) from the same farm. I got them on May 16. The week after that, it rained all week. The chickens have a covered rain the stays dry but the with the rain also came a slight cold front (if you can have that in Florida). I noticed that some of the birds were beginning to sneeze and have runny noses. I began administering Aureomycin through their water this past Saturday. Everyone seems to be doing better, except for my barred rock. She is scratching her eyes constantly, having watery eyes that don’t open well in the mornings or evenings. She’s not eating or drinking much. Although, when I hold water to her beak she drinks, but not very much. After researching, it sounds like eye worms. I have read several different ideas on treatment. This includes going to the vet, ivomec and mineral spirits, and VetRx. I would like to treat this at home if possible. Any suggestions would be great! Thank you!

 

[eminator]

If it is indeed eyeworms, the treatment is surgical removal. Unfortunately, I don't think you should do this at home. They can cause blindness, so you may want to consider this option. Maybe you can find a vet who won't charge a lot? Good luck!