Worm chickens should be dewormed every 3 to 6 months to prevent parasitic infections and maintain their health and productivity.
Keeping your chickens free from internal parasites is crucial for their health and egg production. Worm infestations can lead to weight loss, reduced egg production, and even death if left untreated. This guide covers everything you need to know about worming chickens effectively.
Why Worming Chickens is Important
Chickens naturally pick up worms through foraging. Common parasites include roundworms, tapeworms, gapeworms, and threadworms. While light infestations may not cause obvious symptoms, heavy worm loads can:
- Reduce nutrient absorption
- Cause weight loss
- Decrease egg production
- Lead to respiratory issues (with gapeworms)
- Potentially spread to other flock members
Regular worming helps maintain your flock’s health and productivity. Learn more about why chickens might die suddenly which could be related to parasite overload.
How Often Should You Worm Chickens?
The frequency depends on your management system:
| System | Worming Frequency |
|---|---|
| Stationary coop (same ground) | Every 3-4 months |
| Rotational grazing | Every 6 months |
| Showing symptoms | Treat immediately |
Most experts recommend worming at least twice yearly – typically in spring and fall. The Meyer Hatchery blog suggests this schedule works well for most backyard flocks.
Signs Your Chickens Need Worming
Watch for these symptoms that may indicate worm problems:
- Pale combs and wattles
- Weight loss despite normal eating
- Diarrhea or abnormal droppings
- Reduced egg production
- Visible worms in droppings
- Gasping (gapeworm symptom)
Types of Chicken Wormers
There are several effective options for deworming chickens:
Commercial Wormers
These pharmaceutical products are most effective:
- Fenbendazole (Safe-Guard): Effective against roundworms, tapeworms
- Ivermectin: Broad-spectrum treatment
- Levamisole: Good for roundworms and gapeworms
Note that most commercial wormers aren’t specifically labeled for chickens. Consult your vet for proper dosing.
Natural Worming Options
Some keepers prefer natural methods:
- Diatomaceous earth: Mixed in feed (controversial effectiveness)
- Pumpkin seeds: Contain cucurbitacin which may paralyze worms
- Garlic: Added to water as a preventative
- Herbal blends: Wormwood, thyme, other anti-parasitic herbs
While natural methods may help, they’re generally less reliable than commercial wormers for heavy infestations.
How to Administer Wormers
Methods vary by product type:
Water-soluble Wormers
Best for larger flocks:
- Calculate total flock weight
- Mix proper dosage in drinking water
- Remove other water sources
- Treat for recommended duration (usually 5-7 days)
Individual Treatments
For smaller flocks or targeted treatment:
- Weigh each chicken
- Administer precise dose orally
- Use syringe for liquids or hide pills in treats
After worming, thoroughly clean the coop to remove contaminated bedding and droppings. This helps prevent reinfection. Learn about introducing chickens to a new coop which includes proper sanitation practices.
Preventing Worm Infestations
Reduce worm problems with these management practices:
- Rotate grazing areas when possible
- Keep coops clean and dry
- Avoid overcrowding
- Quarantine new birds before introducing
- Provide clean, fresh water daily
- Use preventative herbs or DE between treatments
The Poultry Keeper recommends regular fecal testing to monitor parasite levels and avoid unnecessary treatments.
Egg Withdrawal After Worming
Important safety note: Most chemical wormers require an egg withdrawal period:
- Fenbendazole: 14 days
- Ivermectin: 7 days
- Levamisole: 7 days
Check specific product guidelines. Natural methods typically don’t require withdrawal.
When to Consult a Vet
Seek professional help if:
- Multiple chickens show severe symptoms
- Wormer treatments aren’t working
- You’re unsure about proper dosing
- You need fecal testing to identify parasites
A poultry veterinarian can provide targeted treatment based on your specific parasite challenges.