Soft shell eggs?

[fethr37]

One of my hens has been laying periodically through the winter but the eggs have all been soft shell. I have plenty of crushed clam shell available so I don't know what is going on? She is the only one out of five hens that have layed. BYC opinions or advice needed..thanks

 

[ducksinarow]

I battle this also. I always buy layer feed and also provide additional calcium. Also are you throwing their shells back to them. Mine eat up all the egg shells I give them.

 

[Amiga]

I also have a couple of ducks who seem to have trouble with shells.

I have read a few things on the topic, and some of my ducks have responded well to calcium gluconate, 1 teaspoon per half cup of water added to feed, or a quarter teaspoon in a couple of tablespoons of mashed peas once a day.

Lately I am trying calcium citrate, 500 mg per day for 10 ducks.

I think there may be more to it than calcium intake, and I know there needs to be a proper calcium to phosphorus balance, as well as enough vitamin D.

There's oyster shell free choice, cleaned crushed egg shells, and other calcium supplements to try.

One person has suggested to me that some vitamin C might help.

 

[fethr37]

Interesting.thankyou.. She laid another softy yesterday and today she doesn't look too good and she seems to have a slight limp.

 

[fethr37]

I battle this also. I always buy layer feed and also provide additional calcium. Also are you throwing their shells back to them. Mine eat up all the egg shells I give them.

Yes. and they eat the crushed clam shells and brouse on kale daily

 

[Amiga]

Sometimes a soft egg will get stuck - that can be life-threatening. Time in a lukewarm tub is always a good idea, get a vet to help if possible.