I am so sorry!
I've heard rumors of cats who killed chickens. None of mine ever bothered even the tiniest of chicks. Its weird how they know what is a pet and whats not.
I had a red squirrel that I fed for a few years my cat, Boo the killer, would kill every squirrel she came to but she left...
All breed hens do this. They do not care what the rooster says (or what you say) they lay where they like. Seriously, put some fake eggs in the nests to tempt them into laying in a more appropriate spot. Keep an eye out for hidden eggs too. They will generally keep laying in out of the way...
When my youngest moved out we gave him his bedroom set for his college apartment. By the time his room was emptied of furniture the sink was full of dishes.
I guess a few years on his own taught him a lesson. His wife says he is a much better housekeeper than she is.