Light, egg laying, and molting

[denisesbabies]

We purchased 2 barred rocks 3 weeks ago. They were laying when we got them, but have not laid since we moved them. We know that stress causes the to stop laying. So we were thinking of installing a light in their coop. However, it seems like they may be starting o molt. Will installing the light to get my ladies laying hurt them if they are in the molting process?

thanks

 

[sumi]

Unfortunately stress can trigger a molt and molting takes as much out of a hen physically as egg laying does. The only thing you can do now is put them on a higher protein diet to help them recover from the molt quick and wait. Treats like scrambled eggs, mealworms, a little dry cat food and meat scraps are all good, high protein treats. A splash of ACV (apple cider vinegar) in their drink water will also help. It helps chickens overcome stress and it aids nutrient absorption.