Scaly leg mites??

[katiec11]

Here is a photo of my silkies feet- I wasn't sure if it is a early case of scaly leg mites? So hoping to get some advise
Thanks!!

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

Yes- the scales are raised; that is what I have seen with SLMs myself.

I dip the whole leg in mineral oil (veg oil will work) daily or every other day for at least 2 weeks (due to life cycle of mites). Some have used vaseline. I tried bag balm but didn't like it as well as the oil. The feathers on the feet will get oily but no worries- this needs to be treated.

The scales should go back down. Severe cases can require the leg scales to molt before an improved appearance is noted.

Some people use a brush on the scales after soaking to gently remove the debris. SLMs can cause eventual amputation of toes and it is vital that they are treated.

You may want to treat your coops and birds with poultry dust or spray with permethrin liquid (tossing bedding and nesting materials, repeat in 7 days for mites and 7/14 days for lice). SLMs can also attack the comb- you can put oil on the comb as well. The oil smothers the mites.

 

[katiec11]

Thanks heaps for your information!!