Having some problems...looking for advice

[slanser26]

I have several hens that are losing their feathers on their backs. I'm guessing this might be due to maybe lice or some sort of pest?? What is the best way to help this or treat it? Could there be other reasons for this to happen.
Also, I have a couple hens whose vents look a bit nasty and need cleaned up. What is the best, most effective way to do this as far as products and methods?
I like to use natural remedies on my animals as much as possible so homemade or non chemical suggestions are very welcomed. Thanks for any advice. Again, I'm only a year into chickens so please don't judge me!

 

[Summertime7921]

If you have roosters they can wear the feathers off the hens backs, especially if you have too few hens per rooster.

 

[slanser26]

Ok! That makes sense... that is what I thought was going on but I wasn't sure. I have two roosters and they are always chasing these poor hens around so that doesn't surprise me. One of my roosters is getting ready to leave, he is a jerk and can't get along with anyone! The other one is pretty friendly and older and doesn't bother anyone. I had looked in their feathers and didn't see anything as far as bugs but I wasn't sure. Thanks for the info!

 

[iwiw60]

Almost sounds like vent gleet on your hens....

http://www.fresh-eggs-daily.com/search?q=vent+gleet

Best of luck!

 

[slanser26]

Thanks! Perfect article!

 

[iwiw60]

Thanks! Perfect article!

Let me know how it goes...updates, please!!

 

[suebee]

You could get chicken saddles to protect the hen's back feathers.