So let's compare two products that are well known for treating blood sucking parasites on pets.
Frontline
Some suburban vets reportedly use Frontline drops on chickens which is typically for other domesticated pets such as dogs and cats.
Many poultry owners have mixed feelings about using Frontline as it may not be the right active ingredient to treat poultry with. Speak to your vet for more information about the use of this product as it is not a typical livestock application.
Ivermectin
The most common liquid topical application that is broadly used for livestock and poultry is a product called Ivermectin.
May also be known by other names such Ivomec.
- Its applied very simply by drops using a eye dropper directly onto the skin at the base of the neck.
- Ivermectin absorbs into the skin rapidly, so make sure you don't accidentally hit the feathers, you need it directly onto the skin.
- Make sure you wear gloves during the treatment.
- There is an egg and meat withhold period of 5 days.
- Its absorbed straight into the bloodstream, so any brood sucking parasites will definitely ingest it.
- An injectable version is available on the market, but best consult with your vet before applying in this manner.
Although it is also hailed as a poultry wormer, it does not affect every worm type. So I personally recommend that regular ingestable broad spectrum worming products still be given.
Recommended dose of Ivermectin:
1 drop - OEGB sized small bantam female
2 drops - OEGB sized small bantam male
3 drops - average bantams
4 drops - large bantams, small commercial fowl
5 drops - most commercial fowl, small giant hens
6 drops - giant breeds of chicken