My 3 week old buff orps are scratching like crazy!

[islandchick75]

I notice them biting and scratching under their wings mostly, and so i dusted them with diatomaceous earth (food grade). Not sure what else to do? How long should it take before i see an improvement? Are they too young for the chemical powder? Are there drops that you can buy? (I am in Canada) They haven't been outside yet, so i dont know how they would get mites, maybe the pine shavings. Also, wanted to give them vitamin/electrolyte mix but it says 400grams to 750 litres of water....i am terrible at math, and is that for stock solution? I dont want to accidentally make them sick! Any info is appreciated, thanks!!

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC!!!

Glad to have you aboard!!

 

[1muttsfan]

Hi and welcome to BYC from northern Michigan

Have you seen parasites on your chicks? You might want to post them in the Parasites section of the Forum. At their age, your chicks have no need for electrolytes, just a grower ration and water.

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, islandchick75, and

! Pleased you joined us! Hope your chickens are feeling better soon!

 

[drumstick diva]

DE does little or nothing. How old are your chicks? I don't know which products are safe for very young ones. Have you examined under their wings to see what is bothering them? They were probably infected before you got them but, the number of parasites has been increasing so they scratch much more. Do you have a feed store near you? You could ask what product they recommend. The bedding and brooder they are in will need to be treated also.