parasites

[vetsjs1]

Good morning, I am wondering if I need to deworm my hens preventatively? And if so, with what and how often.
Thanks!

 

[centrarchid]

First concentrate on detecting health issues. Changes in behavior, weight, feathering not related to molt and color changes to to face and legs are what I look at first. If you see something odd, then start looking at feces for worm sign. You need others more versed in that to provide details on determining parasite ID and treatment options.

As a general rule, I do not use prophylactic treatments as speeds development of parasite resistance to what limited treatment options we have. Use them only when needed and follow labeling. Birds I treat are ultimately culled leaving only resistant birds to be parents of subsequent generations.

 

[Folly's place]

Welcome! Only give a dewormer if there's a known parasite load, based on either seeing a worm in the feces, or having fecals run at your veterinarian's. Many of use have seldom needed to treat the birds for intestinal parasites, while other flocks do need more frequent treatment.
So, there's no one answer, except 'it depends'.
Worming chickens isn't about 'prevention', it's about treating an infestation.
Mary

 

[aart]

Ditto both posts above!!

Now we are living in Mass and are going to do backyard chickens.

Especially as you live in a cold climate.....

Climate is almost always a factor.
Please add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, then it's always there!