If you own chickens, you know how devastating coccidiosis can be. It’s one of the most common and deadly diseases affecting poultry, especially young chicks.
Coccidiosis spreads fast, attacking the intestines and causing bloody diarrhea, weakness, and even death if left untreated. But there’s good news: Corid (Amprolium) is a safe and effective treatment that can stop the disease in its tracks.
But how much Corid should you give your chickens? And how do you make sure you’re using it correctly?
This complete guide will walk you through the exact Corid dosage for chickens, how to administer it, common mistakes to avoid, and expert tips on preventing coccidiosis in your flock.
Let’s dive in.
What Is Corid and How Does It Work?
Corid is a brand name for Amprolium, an anticoccidial drug used to treat and prevent coccidiosis in poultry.
How It Works: Amprolium blocks coccidia from absorbing thiamine (Vitamin B1), which they need to grow and multiply. This starves the parasites, stopping the infection before it gets worse.
Why It’s Safe: Unlike antibiotics, Corid does not kill bacteria or harm gut health—it only targets the coccidia parasites.
Where to Get It: Corid is available in liquid (9.6%) and powder (20%) forms at farm supply stores like Tractor Supply and online retailers.
Corid Dosage for Chickens (Liquid & Powder)
The dosage depends on whether you are treating an active outbreak or preventing coccidiosis.
Treatment Dosage (For Sick Birds)
If your flock is already showing symptoms of coccidiosis (bloody stool, lethargy, weight loss), use this higher-dose treatment for 5 days:
| Corid Form | Dosage per Gallon of Water | Dosage per 1 Quart of Water |
|---|---|---|
| Corid 9.6% Liquid | 2 teaspoons (9.5 mL) | ½ teaspoon (2.4 mL) |
| Corid 20% Powder | 1.5 teaspoons (4.5 grams) | ⅜ teaspoon (1.1 grams) |
Instructions:
Mix fresh every 24 hours Make sure this is the only drinking water they have access to Continue for 5 days
Prevention Dosage (For Healthy Birds Exposed to Coccidia)
If your chickens are not sick but have been exposed to infected birds, use a lower preventative dose for 7 days:
| Corid Form | Dosage per Gallon of Water | Dosage per 1 Quart of Water |
|---|---|---|
| Corid 9.6% Liquid | 1 teaspoon (4.75 mL) | ¼ teaspoon (1.2 mL) |
| Corid 20% Powder | ¾ teaspoon (2.25 grams) | ⅛ teaspoon (0.55 grams) |
Instructions: Follow the same daily water replacement routine Keep water medicated for 7 days to prevent infection
How to Administer Corid to Chickens
Mix Corid into Drinking Water
- Corid must be diluted in fresh water daily for the full treatment duration.
- Remove any other water sources so they only drink the medicated solution.
Use a Syringe for Weak Birds
- If a chicken is too sick to drink, use a small syringe to gently drip a few drops of Corid water along its beak.
- Do not force water down their throat—let them swallow naturally.
Monitor for Improvement
- Most chickens show improvement within 24-48 hours after starting treatment.
- Continue for the full 5-day course, even if they seem better.
Repeat a Lower Dose After Treatment
- After the 5-day treatment, follow up with a ½-strength dose for 1-2 weeks to ensure coccidia do not return.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping Treatment Too Soon
Many chicken owners stop treatment too early when symptoms improve. This can allow surviving parasites to come back stronger. Always complete the full course.
Not Mixing a Fresh Batch Daily
Corid loses potency quickly in water, so you must make a new batch every 24 hours.
Using in Feed Instead of Water
Corid is only effective when mixed in water—it does not work if sprinkled on feed.
Not Adjusting for Weather
If it’s hot and chickens drink more, they’ll get a higher dose. If it’s cold and they drink less, they may not get enough. Keep an eye on their water intake.
Side Effects & Safety Tips
Does Corid Have Side Effects?
Corid is very safe when used correctly, but it blocks thiamine (Vitamin B1), which chickens need.
To prevent thiamine deficiency, add a Vitamin B1 supplement after treatment. Many owners use:
- Rooster Booster Poultry Cell
- Nutri-Drench for Poultry
Is There a Meat or Egg Withdrawal Period?
- Meat Withdrawal: 3-5 days
- Egg Withdrawal: None (eggs are safe to eat during and after treatment)
Preventing Coccidiosis in Chickens
Coccidiosis thrives in warm, damp, and dirty conditions. To keep your flock safe:
Keep Bedding Dry: Damp litter is a breeding ground for coccidia. Avoid Overcrowding: More chickens = more poop = higher infection risk. Clean Waterers & Feeders Daily: Reduce exposure to contaminated droppings. Rotate Pasture Space: If free-ranging, move them to fresh areas. Consider a Medicated Starter Feed: For young chicks, it can help build immunity.
Final Thoughts: Is Corid the Best Treatment for Coccidiosis?
Yes! Corid is the #1 recommended treatment for coccidiosis in chickens because it’s:
Fast-acting – Symptoms improve in 24-48 hours Safe – No antibiotic residues in meat or eggs Easy to Use – Just mix with water—no injections needed Effective – Works against all strains of coccidia
If you suspect coccidiosis in your flock, act fast. The earlier you start Corid treatment, the better the survival chances.