What is Deworming and why is it Important?
Deworming in pigeons refers to the process of administering medications or treatments to eliminate internal parasites, particularly gastrointestinal worms, from the digestive system of pigeons. Internal parasites can be harmful to pigeons as they can cause various health issues, including poor growth, weight loss, decreased egg production in breeding pairs, and overall weakness.
Common internal parasites in pigeons include roundworms (nematodes), tapeworms (cestodes), and hairworms (capillaria). Deworming is an essential aspect of pigeon health management, especially for those kept in captivity, such as racing pigeons or pet pigeons. It helps maintain the overall health and well-being of the birds.
How do we deworm pigeons and what are the products that can be used for deworming?
Method 1: Adding to Drinking Water
Step 1: Calculate Dosage
Ensure that pigeons are on their empty stomach for the deworming solution to work properly. First, count how many pigeons are in your loft, let's say there are 100.
Now, for our common Homer pigeons, weighing around 600 to 750 grams each, you'll need to give them 3.5 milligrams (mg) of deworming medicine per bird, which is equal to 0.35 milliliters (ml).
Step 2: Mix the Solution
Take 35 ml of the deworming solution and mix it well with 1.5 liters of water. This will create the right mixture for your pigeons.
Step 3: Serving to the Pigeons
Offer this water mixture to your pigeons in their drinking containers.
Make sure they have access to this medicated water for about 2 to 3 hours so that all birds drink it well, in order to ensure that all the birds drink the water effectively the water has to be removed from the loft for around 18 hours the birds should not have been given any water to drink so when as soon as the deworming water is kept in the loft all the birds will drink as there was no access to water for longer period of time.
Method 2: Individual Deworming Drops Step 1: Prepare Deworming Drops
Gather your deworming drops and ensure they are ready for use.
Step 2: Administer Deworming Drops
For each adult pigeon (not molting or squabs), gently hold the bird.
Using a dropper, carefully place 4 to 5 drops of the deworming solution directly into the pigeon's mouth.
Make sure the pigeon swallows the drops.
Do not deworm pigeons that are molting or squabs (young pigeons).
This method allows you to treat each adult pigeon individually, ensuring they receive the proper dosage of deworming medication while avoiding birds that shouldn't be dewormed.
Products that can be used for deworming are Albomar which has Albendazole content and Hitek which has Ivermectin content one can use any one of the above-mentioned products to deworm their pigeons.
Post deworming what has to be done?
After birds are dewormed one has to give Gutwell power dosage of 1 spoon per liter of water, Gutwell powder is often given to birds after deworming for a few key reasons:
Gut Health: Deworming can disrupt a bird's gut balance. Gutwell powder contains probiotics and prebiotics to promote good gut bacteria growth, maintaining digestive health.
Nutritional Support: Deworming can temporarily affect nutrient absorption. Gutwell powder provides vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, helping the bird regain lost nutrients.
Stress Reduction: Deworming is stressful. Some Gutwell powders have stress-reducing ingredients, benefiting the bird's immune system and well-being.
Recovery: Post-deworming, birds need time to recover. Gutwell powder aids recovery by providing nutritional support.
Where do we get all these products in Banglore?
One can find all these products in any of the pet stores on CBI Road as well as in Nathans Vet Pharma Centre which is in Shivajinagar and one can check in their local pet stores as well for availability of the products. How regularly one should deworm their birds?
It is suggested that one should deworm their birds every 4 months for their good health and good growth one should ensure that birds are dewormed before the race and breeding season to make sure they are healthy to win races and produce good squabs.