Worming a Large Mixed Flock Routine or Only When Needed?

[RoostRuler]

I have a large mixed flock consisting of chickens, ducks, geese, and two turkeys. Im trying to figure out the best approach for worming. Do you worm your flock regularly as a preventative measure, or do you only treat when you see symptoms?

Right now, I dont see any obvious signs of illnesseveryone is acting normalbut I do notice the occasional runny, yellow, or slightly bloody poop mixed in with regular droppings. I know that can sometimes be normal, but it makes me wonder if a parasite load could be building up.

For those who do worm regularly, how do you go about treating a mixed flock? I know chickens can get dosed through water or feed, but Im particularly concerned about the duckswould they end up drinking too much if I use a water-based dewormer? Whats the safest and most effective method for a mixed group like mine?

[NestArchitect]

I follow a preventative worming schedule and treat my mixed flock twice a year. Internal parasites can build up over time without obvious symptoms, so I'd rather be proactive. I use Fenbendazole (Safe-Guard) mixed into their feed, which avoids the issue of ducks over-drinking treated water. It's important to calculate doses based on weight to avoid underdosing, which can lead to resistance. Another option is Valbazen, given orally, but that requires individual dosing, which can be difficult with a large flock. Have you ever done a fecal test to check for parasites?

[EggSeeker]

Some keepers never worm unless there's a confirmed issue, while others do it twice a year. If you're unsure, testing first is a great option.

[EggspertFarmer]

I personally prefer natural preventatives, like fermented feed, garlic, pumpkin seeds, and apple cider vinegar in the water. They may not completely eliminate worms, but they help keep the parasite load low. That said, if I ever see clear signs of a heavy worm burden,such as weight loss, lethargy, or worms in droppings,I use a proper dewormer. You might want to do a fecal float test first to confirm whether you even need to treat. A strong immune system is the best defense!

[CoopAlchemist]

I worm my flock twice a year as a preventative. I mix Fenbendazole in their feed to make sure everyone gets the right dose.

[Eggspresso]

I have a large mixed flock consisting of chickens, ducks, geese, and two turkeys. Im trying to figure out the best approach for worming. Do you worm your flock regularly as a preventative measure, or do you only treat when you see symptoms?

Right now, I dont see any obvious signs of illnesseveryone is acting normalbut I do notice the occasional runny, yellow, or slightly bloody poop mixed in with regular droppings. I know that can sometimes be normal, but it makes me wonder if a parasite load could be building up.

For those who do worm regularly, how do you go about treating a mixed flock? I know chickens can get dosed through water or feed, but Im particularly concerned about the duckswould they end up drinking too much if I use a water-based dewormer? Whats the safest and most effective method for a mixed group like mine?

Ducks do tend to drink more, which makes water-based dewormers difficult to dose accurately. One solution is using a short-term, limited water source,offer only medicated water for a set period, then switch back to fresh water. Alternatively, feed-based dewormers like Safe-Guard can work well. Since you're seeing occasional runny or bloody poop, it might be worth testing for coccidiosis too, as it can present similarly. Do you see any weight loss or lethargy in the flock?

[LiamLeghorn]

I have a large mixed flock consisting of chickens, ducks, geese, and two turkeys. Im trying to figure out the best approach for worming. Do you worm your flock regularly as a preventative measure, or do you only treat when you see symptoms?

Right now, I dont see any obvious signs of illnesseveryone is acting normalbut I do notice the occasional runny, yellow, or slightly bloody poop mixed in with regular droppings. I know that can sometimes be normal, but it makes me wonder if a parasite load could be building up.

For those who do worm regularly, how do you go about treating a mixed flock? I know chickens can get dosed through water or feed, but Im particularly concerned about the duckswould they end up drinking too much if I use a water-based dewormer? Whats the safest and most effective method for a mixed group like mine?

I don't worm regularly, but I do deworm if I see signs like pale combs, weight loss, or dirty vent feathers. Since you're seeing occasional bloody poop, I'd consider coccidiosis as well,Corid might be needed instead of a dewormer. If you decide to treat for worms, Safe-Guard in feed works well and avoids issues with ducks drinking too much medicated water. Also, rotating the flock to fresh areas can help break parasite cycles naturally. Have you noticed any birds acting off besides the turkey?

[PeckingMaster]

Since you have multiple species, I'd be cautious about blanket worming unless you confirm a need. Some parasites affect certain birds more than others, and overuse of dewormers can lead to resistance. A good approach is to take fresh droppings to a vet for a fecal test,many clinics can check for worm eggs and coccidia. If you need to treat, Fenbendazole is safe for most poultry, but ducks metabolize medications differently, so I'd confirm the correct dosage for them. Also, consider rotating pasture or deep-cleaning the coop to reduce reinfection.

[PeckingPal]

If you're hesitant to use chemical dewormers, natural methods like pumpkin seeds, garlic, and oregano might help keep the worm load manageable over time.

[WattleScribe]

Some people use pumpkin seeds and diatomaceous earth as natural worm preventatives, but I prefer chemical dewormers when I see signs of trouble.