To treat gape worms in chickens, administer an appropriate anthelmintic like fenbendazole or ivermectin, and consult a veterinarian for proper dosage and guidance.
Gape worms (Syngamus trachea) are dangerous parasites that infect chickens’ respiratory systems. These bright red worms attach to the trachea, causing breathing difficulties and even death if untreated. This guide covers identification, treatment options, and prevention strategies.
What Are Gape Worms?
Gape worms are Y-shaped nematodes that live in the trachea of infected birds. They feed on blood and cause inflammation, leading to breathing problems. The worms reproduce rapidly, with eggs passing through feces or being coughed up.
Life Cycle of Gape Worms
- Eggs are coughed up or passed in feces
- Earthworms or slugs ingest larvae
- Chickens eat infected intermediate hosts
- Larvae migrate to trachea and mature
- Adult worms reproduce within 17-20 days
Signs of Gape Worm Infection
Watch for these symptoms in your flock:
Primary Symptoms
- Gaping (stretching neck and opening mouth)
- Head shaking and coughing
- Wheezing or gurgling sounds
Secondary Symptoms
- Weight loss despite normal appetite
- Lethargy and reduced activity
- Pale comb and wattles
Effective Treatment Options
Several medications can eliminate gape worms. Always consult a vet before treatment.
1. Fenbendazole (Panacur/Safeguard)
This broad-spectrum dewormer is effective against gape worms. Dosage:
- ¼ mL for bantams
- ½ mL for standard breeds
Repeat treatment in 14 days. Learn more about worming schedules.
2. Ivermectin
Available in several forms:
| Type | Dosage | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Injectable | 0.1-0.25 mL | Oral |
| Pour-on | 3-6 drops | Topical |
3. Flubendazole (Flubenol)
This water-soluble treatment is added to drinking water at 3 mL per gallon for 3 days. Repeat every 3 weeks.
Preventing Reinfection
Treatment alone isn’t enough – you must break the parasite’s life cycle.
Coop Management
- Clean and disinfect housing thoroughly
- Rotate pasture areas regularly
- Remove wild bird feeders near coop
Environmental Controls
- Treat soil to reduce intermediate hosts
- Use proper quarantine procedures for new birds
- Provide clean, dry bedding
When to Call a Vet
Seek professional help if:
- Multiple birds show severe symptoms
- Treatments aren’t working
- You suspect secondary infections
Natural Prevention Methods
While not replacements for medication, these can help:
Dietary Additives
- Garlic in water (may help repel worms)
- Pumpkin seeds (natural deworming properties)
- Apple cider vinegar (creates hostile gut environment)
Pasture Rotation
Moving chickens to fresh ground breaks the parasite cycle. Allow at least 6 months before reusing an area.
Special Considerations
Young Chickens
Chicks and juveniles are more vulnerable due to smaller tracheas. Monitor closely and treat at first signs.
Free-Range Flocks
Free-ranging birds have higher exposure risk. Consider more frequent deworming if gape worms are common in your area.
For more on chicken health, see our guide on preventing worms in chickens.