The recommended dosage of oxytetracycline for chickens is typically 200 mg per liter of drinking water for 3 to 5 days, but consult a veterinarian for specific guidance.
Oxytetracycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections in chickens. When dosed correctly, it can effectively combat respiratory diseases, enteritis, and other poultry illnesses. This guide covers everything you need to know about using oxytetracycline for your flock.
Recommended Oxytetracycline Dosage for Chickens
The standard dosage for chickens is 20-50 mg per kg of body weight, administered for 3-5 days. Here are the most common administration methods:
| Method | Dosage | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Drinking Water | 2500 mg per liter | 3-5 days |
| Feed | 2500 mg per kg feed | 3-5 days |
| Injection (IM) | 20-50 mg/kg body weight | Daily for 3-5 days |
Important Administration Notes
- Always consult a veterinarian before treatment
- Withdraw from egg-laying hens (eggs not for human consumption)
- Complete full course even if symptoms improve
- Store in light-resistant containers at room temperature
Conditions Treated by Oxytetracycline
Oxytetracycline is effective against several common chicken diseases:
Respiratory Infections
Treats Chronic Respiratory Disease (CRD) caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum and air sac infections. Symptoms include coughing, nasal discharge, and labored breathing.
Bacterial Enteritis
Effective against intestinal infections caused by E. coli and other gram-negative bacteria. Watch for watery droppings and decreased appetite.
Other Bacterial Infections
Can treat fowl cholera (Pasteurella multocida) and other susceptible bacterial infections. Learn more about sudden chicken deaths that might require antibiotic treatment.
Administration Methods Compared
Water Administration
Most common method. Mix 2500 mg per liter of drinking water. Ensure chickens drink only medicated water during treatment.
Feed Administration
Mix 2500 mg per kg of feed. Best combined with water treatment for maximum absorption.
Injection Method
Intramuscular injection at 20-50 mg/kg body weight. Risk of muscle necrosis at injection site. Not recommended unless supervised by vet.
Important Safety Considerations
Drug Interactions
Avoid concurrent use with:
- Calcium supplements (reduces absorption)
- Sodium bicarbonate (forms non-absorbable complexes)
- Mineral supplements containing Al, Ca, Mg, or Fe
Side Effects
Potential issues include:
- Muscle necrosis at injection sites
- Delayed bone growth in young birds
- Increased susceptibility to secondary infections
- Nephrotoxicity if used past expiration date
Withdrawal Period
Eggs from treated hens should not be consumed. Meat withdrawal period varies – consult product label and veterinarian.
When to Use Oxytetracycline
Consider oxytetracycline for:
- Confirmed bacterial infections
- Respiratory disease outbreaks
- Bacterial diarrhea
- As directed by avian veterinarian
For non-bacterial issues like egg pecking behavior, other solutions may be more appropriate.
Alternative Treatments
For specific conditions, these alternatives may be considered:
- Tylosin for Mycoplasma infections
- Enrofloxacin for severe E. coli infections
- Sulfa drugs for coccidiosis
- Probiotics for gut health maintenance
External reference: For more detailed pharmacological information, see the PoultryDVM oxytetracycline profile.
Preventing Antibiotic Resistance
To maintain effectiveness:
- Use only when necessary
- Complete full treatment course
- Rotate antibiotics if repeated treatments needed
- Practice good biosecurity to prevent disease
For comprehensive chicken care, learn about proper worming schedules to maintain flock health.
Storage and Handling
Proper storage ensures medication effectiveness:
- Keep in original container
- Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
- Protect from light and moisture
- Do not freeze
- Discard expired medication
External reference: For FDA-approved labeling information, consult the Drugs.com veterinary database.