Chickens that roam freely on the ground will be exposed to different parasites. The most common are the roundworm, gapeworm, and tapeworm. Chickens that live in stationary housing on the same ground have a higher chance of parasite infestation than chickens who are moved around several times a year. A heavy load of worms can affect the ability to absorb nutrients and therefore affect their health and egg production. In severe cases death could happen. If worm infestation is suspected take a fecal sample to a veterinarian to determine types of worms and the infestation level. There are two main approaches to deworming chickens. Using all-natural home-remedy methods and products and the medicine type products. Consult with your veterinarian to help decide the best options for your flock.

You can consider worming on a routine schedule or only deworm when there is a high population of worms. The best approach to deworming will depend on the size of your flock, housing, and history of worm problems in the flock. There are different methods of worming chickens. One includes adding dewormers to the drinking water. With adding a dewormer to drinking water there is no certainty that each bird received the proper dosage. With a small flock you can give individual treatment doses using a paste type dewormer or a pour on.

There are not many chemical dewormers specifically labeled for poultry and certain products are only effective against certain worms. Several are classified as “off label”. That is the reason to consult with a veterinarian so they can prescribe treatment options if using chemical dewormers.

Natural dewormers sometimes mentioned include apple cider vinegar, pumpkin seed, cucumber seed, ginger, diatomaceous earth, spicy food, and garlic. Most of these natural remedies create an environment in the gut that is unwelcoming for parasites.

Prevention is another option to avoid worm issues. Chickens get worms most commonly by transmission from one bird to another. Eggs are excreted in droppings and other birds develop parasites by consuming contaminated water, food, soil, litter, or droppings. Chickens can get worms indirectly by eating intermediary hosts like infected earthworms, bugs, snails, etc.

Look for symptoms of worms. The most common are diarrhea, visible worms in the droppings, weight loss and anorexia, depression, feather loss, slow growth, decline in egg production, worms found in eggs, and death. Specific reactions such as opening mouth, neck stretching, head shaking and gasping for air might be the gapeworm. Face scratching, eye rubbing, swollen eyelids might indicate the eyeworm.

Suggestions for prevention and control of worms:

• Have a Deworming Routine.
• Clean Environment: regularly clean the coop, remove droppings, clean feeders/waterers daily and keep bedding dry.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Provide enough space so chickens can move freely and avoid contact with infected birds.
• Proper nutrition: a well-balanced diet helps boost the immune system to reduce susceptibility to worms.
• Move Coop: Changing the chicken coop and runs prevents worm egg buildup in the soil.
• Biosecurity: practice rules to prevent contamination of feed, water, and the environment.
• Soil Management: Prevent soil contact when possible. Don’t throw feed on the ground, use a proper feeder. Avoid wet, muddy areas and warm areas to prevent a breeding ground for worm eggs.