Recognising & treating scaly leg mites in chickens
GUSTAV Milbenstopp®
works excellently against scaly leg mites
Simply apply evenly to the affected chicken legs with a brush. The oil-containing phase settles on the skin like a protective barrier and also penetrates the smallest cracks in the skin, so that the caring effect can unfold optimally and the mites die directly on contact.
The application should be monitored and repeated every 4–5 days over a period of 2–4 weeks.
Scaly leg mites in chickens (Knemidocoptes mutans)
The scaly leg mite (Knemidocoptes mutans) is a microscopically small burrowing mite from the family Epidermoptidae. It infests only the unfeathered parts of the legs of chickens and other poultry species.
Clinical picture
The mites burrow under the horny scales of the legs, causing chronic inflammatory reactions there. This produces the typical picture of so-called scaly leg: the scales lift, and the legs appear thickened, cracked and covered with a whitish, chalky crust. In advanced cases, toe joints can become deformed and lameness can occur.
Transmission
Transmission occurs through direct contact between animals, especially when they live closely together in the house. The life cycle takes place entirely on the host and lasts about 10–14 days.
Significance for animal health
Although rarely life-threatening, an untreated infestation considerably impairs the animals' well-being and can lead to changes in behaviour, a decline in performance and secondary infections.
