Raising backyard chickens can be a fun and rewarding experience, but not every part of it is glamorous—especially when dealing with worms. Worm infestations can impact your flock’s health, leading to reduced egg production, illness, and even death if left untreated. In this guide, we’ll cover how chickens get worms, signs of an infestation, prevention methods, and treatment options.
How Do Chickens Get Worms?
Chickens can pick up worms from their environment, usually by consuming:
- Worm-infected bugs (such as earthworms or beetles)
- Worm eggs or larvae found in contaminated food, soil, or water
- Droppings from infected birds (both wild and domestic)
A healthy chicken with a strong immune system can tolerate a small number of worms. However, if their immunity is weakened due to stress, poor diet, or illness, worms can multiply quickly, leading to severe health issues.
Common Types of Worms in Chickens
According to Omlet.us, the most common worms that infect chickens include:
- Caecal Worms – Affect the intestines but are usually harmless in small numbers.
- Gapeworms – Lodge in the windpipe, making it difficult for chickens to breathe.
- Gizzard Worms – Found in the gizzard and can affect digestion.
- Roundworms – The most common type, living in the intestines and absorbing nutrients.
- Tapeworms – Attach to the intestinal wall and deprive chickens of nutrients.
These parasites can cause serious health problems if not addressed in time.
Signs Your Chickens Have Worms
Detecting worms early is essential to keeping your flock healthy. Here are some common signs of a worm infestation:
Increased appetite initially – Chickens may eat more because the worms are consuming nutrients from their food.
Lethargy – Infected chickens become weak and less active.
Drooping tail and poor posture – A sick chicken may walk with its tail down.
Pale combs and wattles – These should normally be bright red, but a worm-infested chicken may have a dull appearance.
Diarrhea or watery droppings – Sometimes, worms or their eggs may be visible in the poop.
Weight loss despite eating well – Worms steal nutrients from the chicken’s food.
Reduced egg production – Worms affect overall health, leading to fewer or no eggs.
Difficulty breathing – If gapeworms are present, chickens may gasp for air.
If your chicken shows any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult a vet for testing and treatment.
How to Prevent Worms in Chickens
Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to worms. Here are some effective ways to keep your flock safe:
1. Keep the Coop Clean
Maintaining good hygiene is key to preventing worm infestations.
Remove droppings regularly to reduce the spread of worm eggs.
Keep the bedding dry and fresh to prevent damp conditions where worms thrive.
Use a deep litter method and change bedding 2-3 times a year.
Control flies and insects, as they can carry worm eggs.
Tip: Products like Coop Recuperate help keep the coop dry, reduce odors, and naturally deter parasites with essential oils and diatomaceous earth.
2. Clean Feeders and Waterers Regularly
Scrub feeders and water containers weekly to prevent contamination.
Provide fresh water daily, as standing water can harbor bacteria and parasites.
3. Rotate Free-Ranging Areas
If your chickens free-range, move them to different areas periodically to prevent worm eggs from building up in one location.
4. Boost Immunity with Supplements
A strong immune system helps chickens naturally fight off worms. Adding Chicken E-lixir to their drinking water can support gut health. It contains:
- Oregano essential oil – A natural anti-parasitic agent.
- Prebiotics – Promote healthy digestion.
- Vitamins D & E – Strengthen the immune system.
- Electrolytes & Calcium – Support overall health.
5. Use Natural Worm Preventatives
Many chicken owners use natural remedies to help prevent worms:
Garlic – Acts as a natural worm deterrent.
Pumpkin seeds – Contain cucurbitacin, which may help expel worms.
Apple cider vinegar – Supports digestion and gut health.
While these won’t replace proper worm treatment, they can help create a healthier digestive system that’s less hospitable to parasites.
How to Treat a Chicken with Worms
If you suspect worms, consult a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. A vet can perform a fecal test to determine the type of worm affecting your chickens and prescribe the best dewormer.
Deworming Medications
There are both natural and pharmaceutical options for deworming chickens:
- Fenbendazole (Safe-Guard or Panacur) – Effective against most worm types.
- Ivermectin – Sometimes used for external and internal parasites.
- Flubendazole – Commonly used in poultry-specific dewormers.
Always follow the vet’s instructions, including withdrawal periods before consuming eggs or meat from treated chickens.
A Proactive Approach is Best
Rather than relying solely on medication, focus on preventative care. By keeping your flock’s immune system strong and their environment clean, you reduce the chances of a severe worm infestation.
Worms may be an unpleasant topic, but they’re an important part of backyard chicken care. While a small number of worms might not harm a healthy bird, infestations can cause serious health issues. By maintaining clean coops, rotating free-range areas, using natural preventatives, and keeping your chickens’ immune systems strong, you can protect your flock from worms.
If you ever suspect worms in your chickens, don’t wait—seek veterinary advice to ensure the proper treatment and keep your flock happy and healthy!
FAQ
How do chickens get worms?
Chickens get worms by eating infected bugs, consuming worm eggs or larvae from contaminated food or water, or coming into contact with droppings from infected birds.
What are the signs that my chickens have worms?
Common signs include lethargy, pale combs and wattles, watery droppings, weight loss, reduced egg production, and difficulty breathing (in cases of gapeworm).
How can I prevent worms in my backyard flock?
Prevent worms by keeping the coop clean, rotating free-ranging areas, providing supplements like Chicken E-lixir, and using natural preventatives such as garlic, pumpkin seeds, and apple cider vinegar.
What is the best treatment for chickens with worms?
Consult a vet for proper diagnosis. Common deworming medications include Fenbendazole (Safe-Guard), Ivermectin, and Flubendazole. Follow withdrawal periods before consuming eggs or meat.
Can I use natural remedies to prevent worms in chickens?
Yes! Garlic, pumpkin seeds, and apple cider vinegar are natural preventatives that support gut health. However, if a severe infestation occurs, veterinary treatment may be necessary.
