Health Issues in Older Laying Hens

As laying hens age, they become more susceptible to diseases that can threaten egg production and shorten their lifespans. Some of these diseases are contagious and can spread to younger chickens and hatchlings. By becoming familiar with the common health problems in older laying hens, it is possible to protect the health of the flock and to ensure a longer productive life for each chicken.

  1. Body Lice

    • Older hens are especially susceptible to body lice infections, particularly when confined to small, indoor housing. The lice infect the skin of the bird and lay eggs, called nits, along the base of the feathers. Lice infestations can cause illness in an older hen because irritation from the bites can prevent the bird from getting adequate sleep.

    Heat Stress

    • All poultry, but especially older hens, are adversely affected by extreme heat. The larger size and heavier feather coverings of older birds makes them unable to dissipate heat efficiently. Hens will pant and seek shade to reduce body temperature, but if these things are unsuccessful, the hen can overheat, possibly resulting in illness, reduced egg growth, and death.

    Problems with Cessation of Egg Production

    • According to the Oregon State University Extension Service, most hens will cease laying sometime after 3 years of age. Hens that can no longer lay eggs normally may become egg bound, a condition in which an egg is produced but trapped in the oviduct. Others may become internal layers, and produce yolks that are reabsorbed by the body. These conditions can be fatal to the hens.

    Scaly Leg Mites

    • Older hens are susceptible to mite infestations on their feet and legs. Mites burrow under the scales of a hen's legs to feed, and can cause irritation, crusting, and thickening of the skin.

    Staphylococcus Infections

    • Staphylococcus bacterial infections can cause a condition known as bumblefoot in older hens. Staph bacteria can infect small wounds on a hen's feet causing lameness and abscesses.