hens molting

[chicken parm]

my hens are starting to molt but it's still winter. is that normal? they are 9 months old, how long should it take?

 

[brooster]

it is normal, mine always seem to molt at the beginign of winter, just keep them warm. A molt can take anywhere from a few week to a few months, just provide extra protein, they will molt faster that way.

 

[chicken parm]

thanks, I feed them 16% layer feed now. the highest protien I can get is 24% would that effect the hens still laying?

 

[brooster]

i would keep them on the layer and either give them a little cat food, grain and beans, or worms, these are all high in protein.

 

[chicken parm]

oh that's good I have been giving them a handful of catfood everyday.

 

[brooster]

well then your doing fine!