Gapeworm Treatment

[treehugger89]

I have read many posts about treating gapeworms with Safeguard (fenbendazole). I have given my hen one dose and will dose for a total of 5 consecutive days as recommended on this forum. I have also read to dose again in 10 days. Is this necessary if I dose for 5 consecutive days?

 

[Eggcessive]

Most of the worm experts I have talked to here say it is not necessary to do the after 10 day treatment, following the 3-5 day treatment with fenbendazole. I'm not sure why, but you could still do it if you wish. Normally, it is to get the hatching worm eggs after 10 days. There is not a lot of studies published on using wormers and re-treating. Contact Casportpony if you wish--Kathy usually has the most up to date info, and she usually does her own research on her poultry as well.

I would rule out a respiratory disease if you think it is gapeworm, since gaping can sometimes be one of the common symptoms such as watery eyes, nasal drainage, rattles or wheezes when breathing, etc.

 

[treehugger89]

I am almost positive it is gapeworm. She has no other symptoms of a respiratory disease so I started treatment with Safeguard. She also had a severe case of lice which I treated, she seemed to feel much better then the gaping got worse. I have been raising chickens for twenty years and have never had problems with worms or lice. Thank goodness for this forum!

 

[treehugger89]

Forgot to thank you for your response, I have contacted Kathy as you suggested.