What should I check if my hen is broody and losing weight? | arlo.® Atlas

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

If your hen is broody and losing weight, the first things to check are whether she’s still eating and drinking enough, whether she’s coming off the nest at all, and whether there are any other signs of illness. Broodiness can reduce appetite, but ongoing weight loss can also point to a different problem, so it’s worth looking carefully.

Things To Check

1. Watch how often she leaves the nest and whether she’s eating, drinking and stretching normally when she does.

2. Check her weight over a few days if you can, rather than relying on appearance alone.

3. Look at her droppings for a change in amount, colour or consistency.

4. Feel the crop first thing in the morning to see whether it has emptied overnight as expected.

5. Check her comb, eyes and breathing for signs that she seems dull, unwell or dehydrated.

6. Look through the feathers for lice, mites, bare patches or signs that she’s been pecking at herself.

7. Make sure other hens aren’t stopping her from getting to feed and water.

Common Causes

Broodiness itself is the most common reason a hen may lose a little weight, especially if she spends long periods on the nest and eats less than usual.

Reduced access to feed or water can also be a factor, particularly in a busy flock where a broody bird is being pushed away or not getting up often enough.

Parasites such as lice, mites or worms can contribute to weight loss, even if broodiness is also present.

Less commonly, an unrelated illness, digestive issue or crop problem may be affecting her appetite and condition at the same time.

What To Do

Make it easier for her to get up, eat and drink by keeping feed and fresh water close to the nest area. Check her daily so you can notice whether the weight loss is continuing or settling.

If she seems otherwise bright, you can keep a close eye on her condition while encouraging normal eating and drinking. If she is losing condition quickly, separating her briefly can help you monitor what she is actually taking in.

Keep her bedding clean and dry, and check the rest of the flock for signs of parasites or competition at the feeder. If she doesn’t seem to improve, or if she becomes quiet, fluffed up or stops eating, get veterinary advice.

When To Contact A Vet

If your hen is losing weight quickly, isn’t eating or drinking, has watery or very unusual droppings, looks weak, or seems unwell in any other way, contact your vet. Weight loss alongside broodiness isn’t always just broodiness, and it’s better to have her checked if you’re not sure.

Products That May Help

Good coop hygiene can make it easier to keep an eye on a broody hen and spot changes early, especially if you’re checking for mites, damp bedding or general flock issues.

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