Do Ex Commercial Hens Need Hen Coats?
It’s not uncommon for ex commercial hens to look a little worse for wear when they first arrive at their new homes. Understandably, this leads many adopters to ask our Rehoming Team whether their new feathered friends need to wear hen coats—especially as the colder months roll in.
The short answer? No, they don’t!
While it might be tempting to keep them bundled up when the temperature drops, hen coats are not only unnecessary—they can actually pose serious risks to your hens’ health and wellbeing.
Why Hen Coats Aren’t Recommended
Here are a few important reasons why we advise against using hen coats on ex-battery hens:
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Hens Can Regulate Their Own Body Temperature
Chickens are surprisingly resilient and smart. During the colder months, they naturally increase their food intake to generate more body heat. Hen coats can interfere with this process by disrupting their natural thermoregulation. -
Wet Coats = Cold, Uncomfortable Hens
If a hen coat gets wet—especially those made from knitted materials—it can become heavy, soggy, and uncomfortable. If not removed promptly, it can even lead to the hen becoming chilled or stressed. -
They Can Hinder Feather Regrowth
As your hen starts to regrow her feathers, she’ll develop what are known as “pin feathers”—these are delicate, sensitive, and can bleed if damaged. Hen coats can rub against these new feathers and cause injury, delaying the healing and regrowth process. -
Risk of Getting Snagged
Once settled in, your hens will start exploring, scratching around for bugs, and creating dust baths. A hen wearing a coat risks getting caught on branches or fences, potentially injuring herself if she’s not found quickly. -
Preening and Dust Bathing Are Essential
These activities help keep feathers clean and parasites at bay. A coat can restrict movement and prevent hens from properly dust bathing or preening, which can affect both their health and happiness.
Helping Your Hen Feather Up Naturally
The best way to support your hens through winter is by providing:
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A warm, draught-free coop
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High-quality, nutritious feed
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Clean bedding and plenty of space to explore
With just a bit of TLC, most hens start to regrow their feathers within a few weeks and often look completely transformed in a couple of months. It’s a wonderful journey to watch—they’ll be strutting around confidently in no time!
