Gapeworm Treatment

[Sk8inChick(en)]

I have a15-month-old hen who is exhibiting signs of a gapeworm infection, such as "gaping" as well as head-shaking. We initially thought it was an ear infection, and she was checked out by a vet, but now I'm wondering if it is gapeworm. She has been eating and drinking, though not eating all that much. We thought this was due to her losing her sole flockmate a week ago, but now I'm not sure. She will eat treats and scrambled eggs, and some of her pellets, also. She is not acting lethargic, she is squawking a lot, but we think that's from being lonely. Her eyes and nose have no discharge, and she doesn't gape 100% of the time.

I thought just to be on the safe side, we should worm her, but I don't know what's best to use for gapeworms. We bought Ivermectin and Safe Guard (fenbendazole), but have not given her anything. I've heard of levamisole, thiabendazole, fenbendasole, and Ivermectin, but I would like some imput on what the best treatment is.

On another note, I was able to pry open her beak and I looked briefly down her throat. I saw nothing but what's supposed to be there, it was pink and moist looking.

Any imput/info on this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[realsis]

Hi I'm pretty sure for Gape worms you can use Levamisole concentrate. Its known to be a good treatment for Gape worm. On the wormers your choice of wormer is very important because if it is gapeworm only certain wormers will work. I hope this helps. I know you can order levamisole concentrate online if you can not find it at your local store. Dose instructions are on the package and clearly printed. I hope this helps you out.Good luck and best wishes

 

[Eggcessive]

I have not seen this, but you can stick a cotton swap in the back of the throat and put it on a white paper towel. Apparently the gapeworms are small and red. Some chickens will gape to stretch their necks, if they are hot, and if the have a respiratory disease(infectious bronchitis.) From what i have read, fendbendazole works, but you might need to repeat the dose a time or two.