Do chickens get fatty tumors?

[critterkeeper25]

Yes, they are not huge first thing when I let them out of the run to forrage. I can see that they have food in them but they are nothing compared to when they go in at night. I'll try to get a picture of her tonight so you can see. It sticks out almost like an elbow!

 

[casportpony]

Yes, they are not huge first thing when I let them out of the run to forrage. I can see that they have food in them but they are nothing compared to when they go in at night. I'll try to get a picture of her tonight so you can see. It sticks out almost like an elbow!

They should be empty in the morning.

-Kathy

 

[critterkeeper25]

I have never gone in the coop and checked them before they have entered the run. We have an automatic hen door. It has a light sensor that allows it to open as soon as day breaks. I don't usually go out to let them out of the run and into the yard until 9 or so. We also have a feeder in the coop. So, even if the door hasn't opened up yet, they have access to pelleted chicken feed.

 

[Newmamabear]

Instead of giving them dry scratch, could you try prepping it instead with some water overnight? it will make it more bulky and likely to pass through their crop more quickly as it's more digestible and doesn't have the sponge effect as when it is dry. They'll also get less but probably won't realize it

 

[rebrascora]

I too soak my grains in water.... usually for 2-3 days. They nearly double in size and take much less breaking down by the digestive system. By the third day you can pretty much squash them between your fingers and thumb and chickens seem to be very happy with them soaked.