Preventing and treating feather loss in poultry
Feather loss, outside of a natural moult, can often be a sign that a problem exists in your flock.
Identifying the cause of feather loss and rectifying the problem can help to improve the productivity and health of your flock.
The following table outlines:
- the main causes of feather loss
- contributing factors
- areas on the bird that may be affected
- suggestions on how to prevent feather loss
- and
- possible treatments.
| Cause of feather loss | Main factors involved | Affected areas and treatment |
|---|---|---|
Feather pecking | Social order | Occurs usually at the head No treatment is required unless severe |
Feather pecking | Severe feather pecking and cannibalism due to:
| Occurs on all body parts Prevention Provide adequate lighting Provide continuous access to a balanced diet Lower stocking density Provide enrichment such as hay or string to redirect inappropriate pecking Change breed of bird Treatment Isolate victim birds Provide antiseptic treatment of cuts Colour wound with dye - not red as this attracts further pecking Seek veterinary advice |
Feather pecking | Territorial behaviour - likely to be the reason if only a few birds have feather loss | Observe flock to determine if some birds are being overly aggressive Remove birds causing the problem for a few weeks. If this doesn't fix the problem, permanent removal may be required |
Abrasion | Rubbing against other birds or surroundings | Lower stocking densities Use alternative cage materials Eliminate all rough and sharp surfaces |
Mating | Rooster claws in the hen's back | Trim rooster claws and spurs |
Poor nutrition | Not enough food Lack of a balanced diet Mouldy feed | Provide continuous access to a balanced diet Feed diet appropriate for stage of production Remove old or mouldy food |
Water | Lack of constant cool water even for a short period | Always provide access to cool clean water |
Climatic environment | Overheating Chilling Poor ventilation | Provide an even climate which eliminates temperature extremes Provide adequate ventilation in sheds to reduce ammonia build-up |
Ill-health | Parasites Disease Injury Bullying | Put a health management program in place including vaccinations Monitor birds and make adjustments to management as required See veterinary advice |
Fright | Predators (e.g. cats, dogs, wild birds, snakes, foxes) Noisy people | Prevent predator access by:
People must behave calmly, quietly and alert birds to their entry |
Management | Other stresses such as:
| Handle birds quietly using appropriate restraint and support Keep litter dry and change when necessary |
- Last reviewed: 15 Jul 2016
- Last updated: 15 Jul 2016