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Skinny Hens Breed or Bad Nutrition?
Posted: Tue Feb 11, 2025 4:02 pm
by HenVentor
We recently brought home five hens from a backyard flock that was being downsized. As soon as I picked them up, I could tell something wasnt right. They felt way too light, almost fragile. They dont have the usual plump, healthy look I expect in my birds.
Now Im wondering could this just be their breed, or were they not getting enough nutrition in their previous home? Either way, I want to help them bounce back. Whats the best way to safely put some weight on them? High-protein feed? Extra treats?
Id love to hear what has worked for others!
Re: Skinny Hens Breed or Bad Nutrition?
Posted: Thu Feb 13, 2025 9:15 pm
by NestEggNut
Some breeds are naturally lean.
But if they seem underweight, try free-feeding a high-protein layer feed
You can also add some healthy treats like scrambled eggs.
Re: Skinny Hens Breed or Bad Nutrition?
Posted: Thu Feb 13, 2025 11:48 pm
by FarmyardSage
Check for parasites! Internal and external parasites can cause weight loss. Deworming and dusting for mites might be a good first step before focusing on diet.
Re: Skinny Hens Breed or Bad Nutrition?
Posted: Fri Feb 14, 2025 1:12 am
by CompostChampion
If they're not acting lethargic or sick, they might have just been on a low-calorie diet. Up their protein intake with chick grower feed for a few weeks, and see if they fill out.
Re: Skinny Hens Breed or Bad Nutrition?
Posted: Sat Feb 15, 2025 9:23 am
by EggHarvester
Try fermenting their feed,it can improve nutrient absorption and help with weight gain. Also, consider adding some high-fat treats like black oil sunflower seeds or cooked oats.
Re: Skinny Hens Breed or Bad Nutrition?
Posted: Sat Feb 15, 2025 10:08 am
by EggCelestial
Some breeds, like Leghorns, are naturally lean and won't ever be as plump as breeds like Orpingtons. If they seem active and otherwise healthy, they may just need time to adjust to their new home and diet.
Re: Skinny Hens Breed or Bad Nutrition?
Posted: Sat Feb 15, 2025 10:11 am
by HenloThere
I had a similar experience when I adopted some older hens. They were light and scruffy, but after a few weeks of good nutrition, they plumped up. I fed them a mix of high-protein layer feed, soaked pellets, and occasional scrambled eggs. Be patient, and they'll likely improve!
Re: Skinny Hens Breed or Bad Nutrition?
Posted: Tue Feb 18, 2025 4:55 pm
by CoryComb
HenVentor wrote: Tue Feb 11, 2025 4:02 pm
We recently brought home five hens from a backyard flock that was being downsized. As soon as I picked them up, I could tell something wasnt right. They felt way too light, almost fragile. They dont have the usual plump, healthy look I expect in my birds.
Now Im wondering could this just be their breed, or were they not getting enough nutrition in their previous home? Either way, I want to help them bounce back. Whats the best way to safely put some weight on them? High-protein feed? Extra treats?
Id love to hear what has worked for others!
Offer free-choice feed, high-protein treats, and make sure they're eating well. If they don't gain weight in a few weeks, there could be an underlying issue.
Re: Skinny Hens Breed or Bad Nutrition?
Posted: Wed Feb 26, 2025 8:23 am
by HatcheryHelper
If they were used to foraging and suddenly switched to a commercial feed, they may take time to adjust. Try offering a mix of high-protein feed, fresh greens, and treats like mealworms to encourage weight gain. Keep an eye on their behavior, and if they seem weak, a vet visit might be a good idea.
Re: Skinny Hens Breed or Bad Nutrition?
Posted: Wed Mar 05, 2025 12:54 am
by FeatherFlux
Check their crops in the morning before feeding. If they're empty every time, they might not be eating enough, or they could have a digestive issue. If that's the case, you may need to tweak their diet or check for parasites.