Fastest/best way to treat scaly leg mites

[happylittlehens]

I have 2 buffs that have a pretty severe case of scaly leg mites. One of the buffs also has dark, almost purple, comb and wattles. Otherwise she seems healthy. What is the fastest or best way to treat the mites? Thanks!

 

[silkiemother]

I have heard that petroleum jelly works

 

[HollyWoozle]

Petroleum jelly definitely works and is cheap, it is just a bit messy to do. I am currently trying a spray for the first time, thinking it would just be a lot quicker and easier than using the petroleum jelly, but I can't yet so how effective it is.

To treat with petroleum jelly I just took the hen from the perch at night (when it was dark, she was very calm) and smothered her feet and right up her legs with a good layer. It's important to do it again to break the egg cycle of the mites, I think they recommend something like 4 - 5 days or so later. Probably a third go wouldn't hurt!

 

[happylittlehens]

Petroleum jelly definitely works and is cheap, it is just a bit messy to do. I am currently trying a spray for the first time, thinking it would just be a lot quicker and easier than using the petroleum jelly, but I can't yet so how effective it is.

To treat with petroleum jelly I just took the hen from the perch at night (when it was dark, she was very calm) and smothered her feet and right up her legs with a good layer. It's important to do it again to break the egg cycle of the mites, I think they recommend something like 4 - 5 days or so later. Probably a third go wouldn't hurt!

Thank you! I hope your spray works.