AVIAN POX/molting double whammy...how to get laying again?

[cimarron]

hi there,

we had a couple factors that slowed down the egg laying of our hens. the avian pox went around here about 2 months ago. we stopped eating what few eggs were laid, gave extra nutrition, gave them popsicles and wrapped them up in blankies on the couch (just kidding)...and waited for them to get better. it was not too bad but they did seem pretty under the weather while it ran its course. and then right after that they had their first molt. now the molt is done, four of the six seem to be laying normally. but the two ameraucanas are still not laying... their molt did seem to last longer than the other breedes (BO, BR, SLW). it's been about two months since the pox, and about 5 weeks since the molt began. not sure of how long this should take, or if the ameraucanas might need some extra care to get them laying their beautiful blue eggs again.

thanks much!

 

[logan]

if you are not feeding them laying mash feed them it. also most chickens stop laying in cold weather. so if you would like to put a light in the hen house.

 

[cimarron]

they get layer crumbles and kitchen scraps...should we add any specific type of nutrition? maybe some dry cat food? (BYC controversy topic!)

 

[chickenwhisperer123]

If you arent providing any, supplemental light should definately get them going again. I believe 12-14 hours is recomended for layers, but Ill have to check.