Whether you keep chickens as egg producers, pets, or barnyard companions, it’s important to understand how to care for them as they age. Older chickens require different nutritional support, environmental conditions, and health monitoring than their younger counterparts.

Let’s explore what changes to expect, how to adapt your care routine, and how to give your aging birds the respect and attention they deserve.

When Is a Chicken Considered Old?

Most chickens live 6 to 10 years, though some breeds and individuals exceed that range. Egg-laying hens typically produce reliably until about age 3 or 4. After that, production slows or stops entirely, but many chickens remain active and social for years.

“Old” can be subjective, but signs of aging usually include:

• Decreased egg laying or irregular laying

• Slower movement or reluctance to jump or run

• Thinning feathers or duller plumage

• Weight loss or muscle thinning

• More time spent resting or away from the flock

• Changes in comb color or size

Recognizing these changes early allows you to adjust care and ensure their well-being.

Nutrition for Senior Chickens

Older chickens aren’t expending as much energy on egg production, but they still need balanced nutrition to support their metabolism, immune function, and joint health.

Here’s what to focus on:

Adjust Protein Levels

Once hens stop laying, they no longer need the high protein content of layer feed. Switching to a lower-protein feed or a maintenance formula can help prevent kidney strain and keep weight balanced.

Keep Calcium in Check

Excess calcium from layer feed can be hard on an aging bird’s kidneys if they’re no longer producing eggs. If egg production has fully stopped, switch to an all-flock or grower feed, and offer crushed oyster shell separately so laying hens can still access it.

Add Omega-3s and Anti-Inflammatory Nutrients

Supplementing with omega-3s (found in flaxseed or fish oil) can help reduce inflammation in older joints. Herbs like turmeric and ginger, offered in small amounts, may also provide mild anti-inflammatory support.

Watch Weight and Body Condition

Older chickens may lose muscle mass or become underweight. If one bird is being bullied away from feed, consider offering her food separately or increasing high-fat treats like black oil sunflower seeds (in moderation).

Coop and Run Modifications for Aging Birds

As chickens age, their ability to jump, perch, and move freely declines. Making small changes to their environment can greatly improve their comfort and safety.

Lower the Roosts

High perches become harder for older birds to access. Install lower roosts that are easy to hop onto, or provide ramps for easier access.

Use Soft Bedding

Cushion their joints and fragile feet with deep, soft bedding like straw, pine shavings, or hemp. Avoid hard or slippery surfaces.

Provide Easy Access to Food and Water

Make sure feeders and waterers are accessible at ground level. Avoid styles that require jumping or stepping up.

Shelter from the Weather

Older chickens are more sensitive to extreme cold and heat. Ensure their coop is well insulated in winter and well-ventilated in summer. Offer shade, wind blocks, and warm bedding as needed.

Health Monitoring and Support

Elderly chickens are more prone to health issues such as arthritis, respiratory infections, reproductive problems, and organ failure. Regular checks are vital to catch problems early.

What to watch for:

• Labored breathing or wheezing

• Lethargy or excessive time resting

• Limping or stiff joints

• Unusual droppings

• Weight loss

• Swollen abdomen or signs of internal laying (in hens)

Some issues, like reproductive disease in older hens, can’t always be treated, but comfort measures—such as pain relief prescribed by a veterinarian—may improve their quality of life.

Keep vaccinations and parasite control up to date. Elderly chickens may be more vulnerable to lice, mites, or worms.

Supporting Mental and Social Well-Being

Older chickens often fall in social rank as younger, more energetic birds assert themselves. This can lead to bullying or isolation, so it’s important to monitor the flock dynamic.

To support their social and mental well-being:

• Ensure your elderly chicken has peaceful places to rest

• Offer enrichment like soft dust baths, food puzzles, or quiet foraging time

• Separate bullies if needed to give the older hen space

• Spend time with them—older chickens can form strong bonds with people and enjoy gentle attention

The Question of End-of-Life Care

Eventually, every chicken reaches the end of her life. Some may pass quietly in their sleep, while others may decline more gradually. It’s never an easy decision, but part of responsible flock keeping is knowing when to provide humane euthanasia if a bird is suffering and cannot recover.

Talk to your veterinarian about options and signs that indicate poor quality of life, such as prolonged inability to eat, drink, or move without pain.

For many keepers, saying goodbye is difficult—but providing comfort, dignity, and peace in those final days is one of the most meaningful gifts you can offer.

Celebrating Their Golden Years

Just because an older chicken no longer lays eggs doesn’t mean her value is gone. These birds often become the heart of the flock—calm, wise, and full of personality. They deserve a retirement filled with sunshine, soft bedding, and favorite treats.

Caring for an elderly chicken is a reminder that chickens are more than egg machines. They are living, feeling beings that can enjoy long and peaceful lives under our watchful care.