Natural vs. Chemical Chicken Treatments?

[mmvisualart]

I have used plain yogurt for bacteria.

Apple cider vinegar, garlic, pumpkin, and

Diatomaceous earth for worms.

DM is also good for external parasites.


But sometimes I give up and use Ivermectin, Tetracycline and Cocci-Stat.
Now knowing when a bird is beyond my natural approach, I sometimes pull out the heavy artillery.

I know that a natural flock is a stronger flock, but sometimes losses get out of hand.

Opinions?

 

[willowbranchfarm]

I use the same things your do. I agree that medications are needed for the bigger problems, but I try to be as natural as possible.

 

[dawg53]

DE is useless against worms. Alot of chemicals are derived from plants etc..are much cheaper and come with directions for use. I've always used ACV, and used buttermilk quite often. Cayenne pepper liberally sprinkled in the feed will kickstart birds into laying eggs. Sevin dust lightly sprinkled inside the coop and in nests will stop lice/mites from bothering your birds, unless your birds have them...then you have dust your birds. DE doesnt work fast enough to treat lice/mites...takes too much time.
I like to hit problems hard and fast with whatever means necessary. It doesnt take too much time for something to easily spread through a flock. It's best to treat aggressively.

 

[mmvisualart]

thanx!

 

[mmvisualart]

thanx!

 

[LilyLovesBugs]

I love using garlic, pumpkin, and acv. I also love Manna Pro's Poultry Protector spray for mites and lice that is all natural. It has worked like a dream after trying various chemical sprays. But I agree that for bigger things like worms sometimes chemicals are needed. Although if you are looking for wormer I have heard good things about Molly's herbal wormer although I have never used it, it is natural.

 

[Cknldy]

What dosage of acv do ya'll use? I know i read it somewhere a few times but can't find it again.

 

[LilyLovesBugs]

I do 4 Tablespoons per Gallon.