Diatomaceous earth in capsules for worming??

[Janzen]

I know chickens can swallow capsules. So, what are opinions on putting diatomaceous earth in capsules and using it as a wormer? I know you can put it in food, as I have food grade DE.

Would this be too concentrated?
In theory it seems like a good idea, but….

 

[tlcmurphy]

It will do nothing, DE isn’t a wormer.
DE is used in food as an anti-caking agent.

 

[nuthatched]

DE does nothing for worms.
Do you know what type of worms you're dealing with?

 

[Janzen]

DE does nothing for worms.
Do you know what type of worms you're dealing with?

Well, I’m not sure. I have some 7 month olds with very foamy yellow poop. It seems like something is up. They are acting, eating, and drinking fine, but foamy yellow poop isn’t normal. I lean toward worming vs coccidia, but maybe someone here has better insight. The DE question was theoretical. I was looking for a way to keep their eggs vs have to wait for a wormer or medication to clear their system before collecting again. Any suggestions?

 

[nuthatched]

Well, I’m not sure. I have some 7 month olds with very foamy yellow poop. It seems like something is up. They are acting, eating, and drinking fine, but foamy yellow poop isn’t normal. I lean toward worming vs coccidia, but maybe someone here has better insight. The DE question was theoretical. I was looking for a way to keep their eggs vs have to wait for a wormer or medication to clear their system before collecting again. Any suggestions?

Unless you see worm segment or worms in poop, you'd need to have a fecal run to say for sure since different types of worms need different meds

 

[alwaystj9]

Call your local vet and ask if they will run a fecal for you if you bring a sample. My vet charges $22 for a fecal. I can also take them to LSU for about $18. Your local ag extension agent should be able to point you in the right direction. That way you will know if worms are the problem or not, and what type of worms you will be targeting. You can also learn to do it yourself. https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/at-home-fecal-float-testing.1236523/