Why is my broody hen not eating or drinking properly? | arlo.® Atlas

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

A broody hen may eat and drink less for a short time because she’s focused on sitting, but she shouldn’t stop properly eating or drinking. If she seems weak, is losing weight, or isn’t getting up at all, there may be more going on than normal broodiness.

Sometimes the cause is simple, such as poor access to food and water, but it can also be linked to stress, bullying, heat, or an underlying health problem. The aim is to check the practical things first and watch for any signs she’s not coping.

Things To Check

1. Check whether she is getting up at least once or twice a day to drink, eat and pass droppings.

2. Look at her body condition. A hen that feels noticeably lighter or breast-bony may not be taking in enough.

3. Check the water. Make sure it’s clean, easy to reach and not tipped over or hidden from her.

4. See whether she’s being kept away from food or water by other hens.

5. Look for signs of heat stress, such as panting, wings held away from the body or sitting in a very hot spot.

6. Check droppings for a marked change in amount, colour or consistency.

7. Watch her posture and alertness. A hen that seems dull, fluffed up or unwilling to move may need closer attention.

Common Causes

The most common reason is that a broody hen is simply sitting for long periods and choosing not to leave the nest often enough.

Poor access to water or feed is another common cause, especially if the nest area is tucked away or other hens are blocking her out.

Heat, stress, or disturbance can also make her settle on the nest and ignore food and drink for longer than you’d expect.

Less commonly, an underlying illness or pain problem may be making her stop eating properly, even if broodiness is part of what you’re seeing.

What To Do

Give her easy access to fresh water and a small amount of feed close by, so she doesn’t have to travel far.

Gently encourage her off the nest once or twice a day so she can stretch, drink, eat and pass droppings.

Keep an eye on how much she’s moving, what her droppings look like, and whether she’s maintaining body weight.

Reduce stress where you can by keeping the area quiet, shaded and calm, and make sure other birds aren’t pushing her away.

If she’s still not eating or drinking properly after a short period, or she seems dull or weak, it’s sensible to get veterinary advice.

When To Contact A Vet

Speak to your vet if your hen isn’t eating or drinking properly for more than a day, is losing weight, seems weak, has very reduced droppings, or is difficult to rouse. These signs can mean she needs prompt assessment rather than just broodiness management.

It’s also worth calling sooner if she has breathing trouble, collapse, severe lethargy, a swollen abdomen, or you’re worried she may be unwell in another way.

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