Caring for Older Hens in Colder Weather

Important: This guide is for general information only. It is not a substitute for veterinary advice. 

If you are concerned about your chickens' health, please use our Find a Chicken Vet tool to locate a poultry vet near you. 

Why Older Hens Need Extra Care in Winter

As hens age, their bodies naturally slow down. By three to four years of age, they may struggle a little more with cold, damp weather. 

Older birds can often be less active, can lose muscle tone, and may find it harder to maintain weight. They can also be more vulnerable to stress and infection during winter. 

The good news is that a few thoughtful adjustments to housing, feeding, and care can make a big difference to their comfort and quality of life.

1) Keeping Hens Warm and Comfortable 

Cold air itself is rarely a problem, but dampness and draughts are. Dry, well-insulated housing helps senior hens conserve energy and stay healthy. If hens are lacking feathers in any areas due to unfinished moults or pecking, they will be more vulnerable to cold stress. 

Practical tips: 

• Use thick, dry bedding and replace it often - deep wood shavings or chopped straw are recommended and a weekly clean of built-up droppings
• Avoid sealing the coop completely; good airflow prevents condensation. Ensure stale air can leave through the ridge or higher than bird height to ensure birds are away from drafts
• Check doors, windows, and roofs for leaks
• Provide extra perching space at a lower height for stiff or heavier birds 

Products keepers often use: 

• Chicken Vet Di Bed to keep flooring and bedding dry 
• Stalosan F to reduce moisture, ammonia, and bacteria in housing 
• BioVX to disinfect housing and equipment during cleaning 

2) Nutrition for Senior Hens

Older hens benefit from consistent feeding routines and balanced nutrition that supports bone health, immunity, and digestion. 

Feeding tips: 

• Feed a consistent and good-quality layer pellet as the main diet 
• Offer a small amount of mixed corn as extra energy 
• Provide grit and oyster shell to support digestion and calcium levels
• Keep feed fresh and dry to prevent mould. Try to only feed enough for each day to prevent attracting wild birds or rodents that may spread disease. An average sized hen in lay will consume around 120-130g/bird/day

Products keepers often use: 

• Chicken Vet Poultry Multivitamins to maintain vitality and feather condition
• Zolcal-D for calcium and vitamin D3 support during short daylight hours
• Digesti-Health to aid digestion and nutrient absorption in older birds 

3) Reduce Stress and Stiffness

Older hens may move less and rest more. Encouraging gentle activity keeps joints supple and improves circulation. 

Supportive steps: 

• Place feed and water within each reach of perches 
• Use ramps or lower perches for easy access 
• Provide firm, dry ground for exercise - ensure the area is netted to prevent wild birds gaining access 
• Offer enrichment such as hanging raw vegetables or a shallow sand dust bath indoors 

Products keepers often use: 

• Natural DE Powder added to sand for clean, dry dust baths 
• Interkokask RTU for quick disinfection of perches and surfaces 

4) Hygiene and Monitoring 

Older hens are more prone to respiratory irritation and infections caused by ammonia or damp bedding. Keeping housing fresh and regularly checking their condition is key. 

Regular checks: 

• Look for changes in weight, water consumption or appetite
• Watch for sneezing or discharge from eyes and nostrils 
• Inspect legs and feet for swelling or scabs 
• Feel along the breastbone weekly to ensure hens are not losing condition