Skinny Chickens and Low production

[Susie C]

My hens are about 3 years of age and this years Molten has been the worst. They all seem really skinny. They have food 24/7 and get scraps. What can I give to help them buff up before the snow flies?

 

[Folly's place]

You could feed Flock Raiser or something similar, with oyster shell on the side, and make sure that the scraps are nutritious, and not overfed. Also, look hard for mites and lice, and have fecals checked at the veterinarian's for intestinal parasites. You may start having birds with internal health problems by age three. Mary

 

[azygous]

If your chickens are molting, it's normal for them to lose weight and appear skinny during this period. I feed high protein treats such as meal worms and dried cat food and occasionally mackerel to support new feather growth. You could also try Feather Fixer, a rather pricey feed high in protein and other nutrients, to encourage new feather growth.