PARASITIC DISEASES IN FOWLS.

Shannon News, 10 March 1925, Page 1

PARASITIC DISEASES IN FOWLS.

Poultry breeders are undoubtedly well acquainted with the existence of a leg disease from which fowls are often found to suffer, i.e. the legscab in fowls. This disease, also called “scabies of the legs," is due to a microscopic mite known scientifically as Scabies mutans. The disease is recognised by the , appearance of greyish scabs or incrustations on the upper parts of the toes and on the tarsus or part immediately above them. These frequently break and bleed, and are evidently the scat of much discomfort to the fowls, which frequently pick at them. Lameness often ensues, and sometimes the irritation gives rise to more deep-seated troubles, which result in the entire loss of some of the toes. The mite which causes these scabs is a minute creature, which creeps underneath the scales, and sets up au irritation, which results in the exudation of purulent matter and an abnormal growth of the epidemic cells surrounding it. If the scab is detached, its white under-surface is seen to be honey-combed by minute cavities, each containing one of the The creatures do not burrow tunnels, as is the habit of the itch-mite, but remain in one spot, when once they have attached themselves. The great majority of them are observed to be females, distended with eggs. This is a very contagious disease,! the mlfiw passing from fowl to fowl when cooped up too closely, and not allowed sufficient exercise. The commoner breeds of fowls are less subject to it than the rarer varieties. Treatment.—lt is clearly desirable that fowls entrusted with the rearing of purchased chickens of expensive variety should be carefully selected free from this disease. In the poultry yard infested fowls should be isolated, and the sound birds allowed plenty of exercise. The perches and beams which have been used by the diseased birds should be washed with dilute carbolic acid or with boiling water. To cure the disease, Neuman, in his latest edition of “Parasites of Domestic Animals," recommends the following method: Steep the legs in tepid water for a few minutes, and remove the scale with a small brush. When dry, apply a coating of “Balsam of Peru," or “Heimerich's Pomade." If the balsam is applied the dressing must be removed daily for two or three days.