What to Do When Chicken Egg Production Drops? Practical Solutions

   A flock's egg production follows a certain pattern: it reaches a peak a few weeks after laying begins, stays there for a period, then slowly declines until laying ends. If the laying rate of hens suddenly drops, a thorough check should be carried out promptly to find the cause and take corresponding preventive measures:
    1. Reduce stress. Seasonal changes and severe weather cause sharp fluctuations in temperature and humidity. If the insulation of the coop is not ideal, it will put considerable stress on the laying flock and cause a sudden drop in egg production. So when the seasons change or the weather is abnormal, adjust the coop temperature and improve ventilation in good time. Adding a certain amount of vitamins and other nutrients to the feed can ease the flock's stress.
    2. Scientific lighting. A sudden power outage in the coop, or loss of control over lighting duration and intensity, is bad for normal egg production. During the laying period, a scientific lighting schedule should be strictly followed and irregular lighting avoided. During the laying period, lighting should last 14 hours to 16 hours per day.
    3. Ensure drinking water. The watering system should be checked often, and any leakage or blockage should be repaired promptly.
    4. Scientific feeding. Choose a complete feed that is safe, reliable and of stable quality; the diet must contain sufficient protein, methionine, appropriate vitamins and minerals such as phosphorus and sodium. At the same time, avoid sudden changes of feed. If a change is necessary, do it gradually: first replace 1/3, then 1/2, then 2/3, until the change is complete. The whole process should take 4 days to 5 days. Keep the number of feedings fixed and feed on time; do not suddenly cut the amount or restrict feeding, and adjust the amount fed according to seasonal changes.
    5. Maintain hygiene. Clean and clear up promptly to keep the coop in good sanitary condition. Carry out routine disinfection 1 time to 2 times a week; if there is an outbreak, disinfect 1 time to 2 times a day. A 0.1% Weidao brand disinfectant or another safe disinfectant can be sprayed to disinfect the coop ceiling, walls, floor and equipment.
    6. Pay attention to daily observation. Observe the flock's feeding, droppings, feathers, combs and breathing; if any problem is found, treat it promptly.
    Generally, the suitable temperature inside the coop is 18.3°C to 23.9°C, and relative humidity should be kept at 55% to 65%. The air in the coop should also be kept fresh; without testing equipment, it is acceptable if a person entering the coop feels no eye irritation, no tearing and no overpowering smell.
    7. Do not vaccinate during the laying period. Vaccination should be carried out during the chick and growing stages, and large amounts of preventive drugs should not be given during the laying period either.
    8. Reduce abnormal noise stimulation. Minimize abnormal noise stimulation and prevent cats, dogs, rats and birds from getting into the coop.
    The above content and suggestions are for reference only.