You can buy Terramycin for chickens at agricultural supply stores, online retailers like Amazon, or veterinary clinics that sell animal medications.
Terramycin (oxytetracycline) is a vital antibiotic for treating bacterial infections in chickens. Whether you’re dealing with respiratory issues, eye infections, or digestive problems, knowing where to buy Terramycin and how to use it properly can save your flock. This guide covers everything from trusted suppliers to dosage instructions.
Where to Buy Terramycin for Chickens
You can purchase Terramycin from several reliable sources:
1. Farm Supply Stores
Tractor Supply, Rural King, and local farm stores often carry Terramycin products. Call ahead to check availability.
2. Online Retailers
- Amazon – Offers various forms including ophthalmic ointment and soluble powder
- Chewy – Carries poultry-specific medications
- Valley Vet Supply – Specializes in livestock medications
3. Veterinary Clinics
Avian vets can prescribe Terramycin. Some clinics sell it directly to poultry owners.
Types of Terramycin for Chickens
1. Terramycin Ophthalmic Ointment
Best for eye infections like conjunctivitis. Contains 5 mg oxytetracycline HCl per gram.
2. Soluble Powder (Oxytetracycline 96%)
Used for respiratory and digestive infections. Dosage is 20-50 mg per kg of chicken weight.
3. Injectable Solution
For severe systemic infections. Requires veterinary guidance.
How to Use Terramycin for Chickens
For Eye Infections
- Clean the affected eye with saline solution
- Apply a 1/4-inch strip of ointment 2-4 times daily
- Continue for 3 days after symptoms disappear
For Water-Soluble Powder
| Chicken Weight | Dosage | Water Treatment Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 kg (2.2 lbs) | 20-50 mg | 3-5 days |
| 5 kg (11 lbs) | 100-250 mg | 3-5 days |
Important Safety Information
Withdrawal Periods
- Meat: 6 days after last treatment
- Eggs: 2 days after last treatment
Storage Requirements
Store in a dry, dark place at 18-25°C (64-77°F). Keep away from children.
Alternatives to Terramycin
If Terramycin isn’t available, consider these options:
- Doxycycline – Similar spectrum but longer-acting
- Tylosin – Effective for respiratory infections
- Amoxicillin – Good for bacterial enteritis
Preventing Bacterial Infections
Proper flock management reduces antibiotic needs:
- Maintain clean coops (learn how to introduce chickens to a new coop)
- Provide balanced nutrition
- Ensure good ventilation
- Quarantine new birds
- Manage stress levels (see how to stop chickens from pecking)
When to Consult a Vet
Seek professional help if:
- No improvement after 3 days of treatment
- Multiple birds are affected
- Chickens show severe symptoms like difficulty breathing
Legal Considerations
In some countries, antibiotics require veterinary prescription. Check your local regulations before purchasing.