To worm chickens naturally, use diatomaceous earth, garlic, or pumpkin seeds, which help eliminate internal parasites safely and effectively.
Keeping chickens worm-free is crucial for their health and egg production. While chemical dewormers exist, many flock owners prefer natural methods that are safer and more sustainable. This guide covers everything from identifying worms to proven natural treatments.
Signs Your Chickens Have Worms
Watch for these common symptoms of worm infestation:
- Foamy or abnormal droppings
- Diarrhea
- Pale comb and wattles
- Weight loss despite normal eating
- Dirty vent feathers
- Decreased egg production
- Gasping or head-shaking (especially with gapeworms)
As noted in our article on how to tell if chickens have worms, regular fecal checks are the best prevention.
Common Chicken Worms
Roundworms
These are the most common, growing up to 3 inches long. Visible in droppings during heavy infestations.
Tapeworms
Rare but can grow up to 10 inches. Segments may appear in droppings like rice grains.
Gapeworms
Red, fork-shaped worms that cause respiratory distress. Chickens may gasp and stretch their necks.
Cecal Worms
Generally harmless but can carry blackhead disease in mixed flocks with turkeys.
Natural Deworming Methods
Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
Food-grade DE dehydrates worms. Mix 1/4 cup per 35oz of feed. Must be food-grade only.
Garlic
Crush 3-4 cloves per gallon of water or mix into feed. Creates an inhospitable gut environment for worms.
Pumpkin Seeds
Contain cucurbitacin which paralyzes worms. Feed raw, ground seeds mixed into feed.
Apple Cider Vinegar
1 tsp per gallon of water boosts gut acidity. Use only in plastic waterers to prevent corrosion.
Herbal Wormers
Wormwood, thyme, and oregano have natural anti-parasitic properties. Add dried herbs to feed.
Preventing Worm Infestations
- Rotate grazing areas to break worm life cycles
- Keep coops dry and clean
- Provide plenty of space to prevent overcrowding
- Quarantine new birds for 30 days
- Use regular worming schedules
When to Use Medication
For severe infestations, natural methods may not be enough. Consult a vet for:
- Fenbendazole (Safeguard)
- Levamisole
- Ivermectin (off-label use)
According to The Happy Chicken Coop, rotating treatments prevents resistance.
Egg Withdrawal Periods
| Treatment | Egg Withdrawal |
|---|---|
| Natural Methods | None |
| Fenbendazole | 14 days |
| Ivermectin | 7 days |
Always follow label instructions for any medication. The Backyard Chickens forum has excellent user experiences with various treatments.
Maintaining a Healthy Flock
Combine natural worming with good management:
- Provide balanced nutrition
- Ensure clean water always available
- Minimize stress in the flock
- Monitor for signs of illness
For more on chicken health, see our guide on preventing worms in chickens.