Chicken Vet Worm Egg Test Kit

Worms and Coccidiosis are parasites which live in the hens' gut and reproduce, and in doing so can destroy the cells lining the gut wall, which then allows harmful bacteria to reproduce which can cause secondary bacterial diarrhoea, and in severe cases can cause blood poisoning.

Symptoms to look out for:

• Weight loss
• Diarrhoea (especially droppings containing blood)
• Hunched posture and ruffled feathers
• Generally “depressed” appearance
• Pale comb and wattle
• Anaemia
• Sudden death in one or more hens
• If one hen is infected, all hens in the flock are at risk because they can ingest parasite eggs from faeces and bedding.
• Newly rehomed ex-commercial hens are especially vulnerable during their first six weeks.
• These hens often lack resistance to coccidiosis, particularly those from enriched cages with wire floors, as they have had no exposure to droppings to build natural immunity.

Prevention:

• Maintain good hygiene.
• Regularly clean and disinfect the hen house.
• Use a DEFRA-approved disinfectant (e.g. Interkokask) to destroy coccidia eggs and reduce risk.

Testing kit information:

• Useful if you suspect worms or coccidiosis, especially after a sudden death.
• Includes gloves, packaging, and instructions for collecting a faeces sample.
• The sample is posted for laboratory testing for worms and coccidia.
• Results are sent to you or your vet.
• The price includes laboratory fees.

Treatment:

• If coccidiosis is confirmed, a vet can prescribe an anticoccidial medication.