Preventative Worming

[Pine Shavings]

Hey Everyone, I live in Western Alberta outside of Jasper National Park. Im wondering about giving worming medicine to my backyard flock. Everyone i have talked to in the area worms their flock every spring using Ivermectin (Spelling?) A friend of mine gave me some to use. I am reserved on administering the drug as I do not suspect my birds have any worms, they are healthy, active and laying regularly. I am hesitant as well because I have 2 young boys(15 months and 4yr) that eat the eggs normally. I started my flock about a month ago, just 2 birds that are 1 year old from a local lady. What is the actually time that we have to abstain from the eggs if ivermectin is administered? Is there any point in doing it, if i do not suspect any worms? Any better options? Thank you all for your help

 

[Sue Gremlin]

If you don't have an issue, I would not recommend deworming just because. Ivermectin does not have a withdrawal time for eggs established, and it is a highly fat-soluble drug, so it could remain as residue in the fat and consequently gets in to the eggs for a long time.
You can periodically check them for worms by taking a fecal sample to a vet or you can check it yourself if you are so inclined. I recommend this over regular deworming.

I am a parasitologist and have evolved quite a bit on this particular issue in the last few years, and I think the only reason to use an antiparasitic in your backyard chickens is if you have a health issue with them that's related (or potentially related) to infection or infestation. Otherwise, I recommend leaving them be. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

 

[Pine Shavings]

If you don't have an issue, I would not recommend deworming just because. Ivermectin does not have a withdrawal time for eggs established, and it is a highly fat-soluble drug, so it could remain as residue in the fat and consequently gets in to the eggs for a long time.
You can periodically check them for worms by taking a fecal sample to a vet or you can check it yourself if you are so inclined. I recommend this over regular deworming.

I am a parasitologist and have evolved quite a bit on this particular issue in the last few years, and I think the only reason to use an antiparasitic in your backyard chickens is if you have a health issue with them that's related (or potentially related) to infection or infestation. Otherwise, I recommend leaving them be. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Awesome advice, thanks for the fast response!