Use of Terramycin in Poultry

Terramycin is often the first drug poultry growers use when it comes to treating bacterial infections. It is readily available at farm supply stores and veterinarian's offices. Terramycin has been proven to be safe and effective in treating many bacteria-born poultry diseases. Terramycin is easy to administer and has no serious side effects.

  1. Types

    • Terramycin is the brand name for oxytetracycline, a medication for chickens and other poultry, which takes the form of a soluble powder that is then mixed with drinking water. Terramycin is a broad spectrum antibiotic used internally to treat bacterial infections in poultry and other animals. It is also available in ointment form to treat infection caused by injury. The ointment is applied directly to the injury. Terramycin ointment can also be used to treat eye infections and pox lesions in the chicken's eyes.

    Dosage

    • The dosage of terramycin powder depends on the condition you are treating. Terramycin comes in packages containing 9.5 ounces of powder. For infectious synovitis, the dosage is ¼ of a package mixed into 2 gallons of drinking water. This solution should be the only source of drinking water available during treatment. Treatment should continue for a minimum of 14 consecutive days. For chronic respiratory disease and foul cholera, the dosage is ½ a package mixed into two gallons of drinking water for 14 days. If you are using ointment to treat topically, the ointment should be applied two to three times a day.

    Considerations

    • A fresh solution should be made every 24 hours; any leftover solution should be disposed of. Disposal should be in accordance with your local regulations. If you do not see improvement within 48 hours, call your veterinarian or poultry care specialist. Dry terramycin powder should be stored below 77-degrees Fahrenheit, and mixed solution should be kept refrigerated.

    Warning

    • Terramycin should not be administered to poultry within five days of slaughter. It is not recommended to give laying hens terramycin. If you use terramycin to treat laying hens, the eggs should be discarded for 30 days following the last treatment. Terramycin is listed for animal use only and should not be given to any animal it is not listed for. Powdered terramycin is for mixing in drinking water only and should not be mixed into liquid feed supplements or vitamins.

    Benefits

    • Terramycin powder is easy to mix, and chickens accept it well. The use of drinking water allows you to treat your entire flock at one time. This can help stop and prevent the spread of disease. Terramycin is a safe and effective treatment for many diseases caused by bacteria.