Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Why is my hen isolating and losing feathers but still laying eggs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Farm Animal | Farm Chicken | Female | unspayed | 0 lbs

We have 5 chickens and receive 5 eggs a day. Around 2 weeks ago I noticed one hen had feathers missing around the neck area. I thought maybe it was a cat attack and didn't worry as behaviour was per usual. Today she sat in the coop with her eyes wide open and didn't leave once. This is very unusual but she still layed a perfect egg. Maybe it's noteworthy that the 5th chicken was introduced later however the chicken of concern (ringo starr) was part of the original 4.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on November 13th, 2018

Thanks for reaching out about Ringo Starr. Laying imperfect eggs and sitting quietly could be a sign of egg binding or other reproductive diseases. If she is eating well and otherwise not looking in distress, then monitoring her is okay for a few days. Ensure her diet is adequate, to replace calcium that is being lost due to egg laying. If she continues to isolate herself or her signs of illness progress, an avian veterinarian examination should be scheduled. Good luck.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored