April 30, 2025
4 min read

Chicken Not Laying Eggs? Common Causes & Expert Virtual Vet Help

Discover why your chickens might have stopped laying eggs (age, breed, nutrition, stress, molt, light, illness) and learn how TelaVets can help.

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Chicken Not Laying Eggs? Common Causes & Expert Virtual Vet Help

Table of Contents

Common Egg-Laying Problems in Chickens

When your hens suddenly stop laying, it can be frustrating and concerning. But don’t worry—there are several common (and often fixable) reasons behind a drop in egg production. At TelaVets, we help backyard flock owners understand and resolve laying issues with personalized, expert care—without ever leaving home.

Recognizing Egg-Laying Issues

Not all changes in egg production are cause for alarm. However, consistent or dramatic shifts may signal something more serious.

Here’s what to watch for:

  • Hens stop laying altogether
  • Eggs are misshapen, soft-shelled, or shell-less
  • Laying is irregular or seasonal
  • Egg numbers decrease across the whole flock
  • Hens appear lethargic or under the weather

When egg production slows or stops, it's time to assess the potential causes—and that’s where TelaVets can help.

Why Your Chickens Might Not Be Laying Eggs

Let’s break down the most common reasons your flock’s egg count may be lower than usual:

🐔 1. Age

Hens naturally slow down egg production as they age. Most breeds lay reliably for their first 2–3 years, with a gradual decline thereafter.

🐓 2. Breed

Some breeds are genetically better layers than others. Leghorns, Australorps, and Rhode Island Reds are consistent producers, while ornamental or broody breeds may lay less frequently.

🥬 3. Nutrition

Inadequate protein, calcium, or overall nutrition can halt egg production. Make sure your flock is getting a balanced layer feed and access to clean water at all times.

🧘 4. Stress

Changes in environment, predator threats, excessive handling, or flock hierarchy disputes can all stress out your hens—leading to decreased egg output.

🍂 5. Molting

Molting is a natural process where hens lose old feathers and grow new ones. It requires a lot of energy, and egg-laying often pauses during this time.

🕯️ 6. Daylight Hours

Egg production is influenced by the amount of light your chickens receive. Shorter winter days can cause a natural dip or complete stop in laying unless supplemental light is provided.

🐛 7. Illness or Parasites

Internal worms, mites, or undiagnosed illness can lead to decreased laying. If egg production stops along with other symptoms, it’s time to consult a vet.

How TelaVets Helps With Egg-Laying Problems

Our virtual veterinary team is here to diagnose and resolve laying issues without the stress of a clinic visit.

✔️ Virtual Assessment

  • We’ll observe your flock, review symptoms, and analyze laying records
  • Share photos or videos for better insight into environmental or physical factors

🩺 Expert Diagnosis

  • Identify nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or hidden health issues
  • Evaluate signs of egg binding, infection, or reproductive disorders

💊 Treatment & Guidance

  • Recommend supplements, feed adjustments, or parasite treatment
  • Prescribe medications when needed—delivered right to your door
  • Help you build a coop environment that supports consistent egg-laying

🔄 Follow-Up Support

  • We don’t stop after the first appointment—get ongoing support and rechecks as needed
  • Monitor progress and adjust treatment for long-term success

Prevention and Management Tips

Keep your flock productive and healthy with proactive care:

  • 🥚 Provide high-quality layer feed with added calcium
  • 🌞 Ensure 14–16 hours of light daily (use a coop-safe bulb in winter)
  • 🧼 Clean the coop regularly to reduce stress and illness
  • 🚫 Watch for mites, lice, and worms—and treat promptly if found
  • 📋 Keep a laying log to track patterns and spot issues early

When to Seek Immediate Care

Some egg-laying problems can quickly become emergencies. Contact TelaVets immediately if you notice:

  • Signs of egg binding (straining, lethargy, swollen abdomen) lasting more than 24 hours
  • Prolapsed vent or tissue that won’t retract
  • Persistent soft-shelled or shell-less eggs
  • Sudden decrease in appetite or energy
  • Blood in droppings or signs of distress

Our licensed poultry vets are here to respond quickly and help your hens get back on track—comfortably and safely.

Why Choose TelaVets for Your Flock

  • 🐔 Licensed Poultry Veterinarians: We understand the unique needs of backyard flocks
  • 🕐 Same-Day Appointments: Get answers fast, right when you need them
  • 💊 Prescriptions Delivered: We send the right treatment to your door
  • 🏡 Zero-Stress Consultations: Keep your flock calm and safe at home
  • 🔁 Follow-Up Included: We’ll monitor progress and support you every step of the way
  • 💰 Affordable Care: Just $65 per virtual visit—no surprise fees
  • 🧠 Empowering Education: Learn how to support long-term flock health

Let’s Get Your Hens Laying Again

Whether it’s nutrition, stress, illness, or just a seasonal slowdown, we’ll help you decode what’s happening in your coop—and how to fix it. With TelaVets, you don’t have to guess or stress. Just book a consultation and get real answers, fast.

📅 Click below to book your $65 virtual vet visit today and give your hens the care they deserve.

👉 BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION NOW

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about TelaVets online veterinary care

TelaVets is a leading online veterinary care platform that connects pet owners with licensed veterinarians through secure video consultations. Our telemedicine service makes professional veterinary care accessible from the comfort of your home. Here's how it works: • Schedule an appointment through our easy online booking system • Join a secure video call with a licensed veterinarian at your scheduled time • Discuss your pet's symptoms, health concerns, and medical history • Receive a professional diagnosis and personalized treatment plan • Get prescribed medications delivered to your door the next day (if needed) Our platform is perfect for non-emergency consultations, follow-up visits, behavioral advice, and managing chronic conditions for dogs, cats, and chickens.

Our licensed veterinarians can diagnose and treat a wide range of non-emergency conditions through virtual consultations:

For Dogs:

For Cats:

For Chickens:

While virtual consultations are great for many conditions, emergency situations requiring immediate physical examination should be handled by your local emergency veterinary clinic.

TelaVets offers transparent, affordable pricing with no hidden fees: • Virtual Consultation: $65 per visit • No membership fees or recurring charges • Same-day appointments available • Follow-up consultations at the same rate • Medication delivery included (prescription costs separate) Our flat-rate pricing makes veterinary care accessible and predictable. You'll know exactly what you're paying upfront, with no surprise bills or additional charges for the consultation itself. We accept all major credit and debit cards, making payment simple and secure. Many pet insurance companies also reimburse telemedicine visits, so check with your provider to see if you're covered.

Absolutely! Every veterinarian on the TelaVets platform is fully licensed and highly qualified: • All vets are licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the United States • Our team includes specialists in small animal care, avian medicine, and exotic pets • Years of experience in both traditional and telemedicine veterinary practice • Ongoing continuing education to stay current with the latest treatments and protocols • Rigorous vetting process to ensure only the most qualified professionals join our team Our veterinarians have the same qualifications and expertise as those you'd find in traditional brick-and-mortar clinics. The only difference is the convenience of meeting them through a secure video platform instead of traveling to an office. You can trust that you're receiving professional, expert care for your beloved pets from anywhere in the United States.

TelaVets is designed for convenience and speed: Appointment Scheduling: • Same-day appointments often available • Flexible scheduling to fit your busy lifestyle • Weekend and evening slots available • Quick online booking process takes just minutes Medication Delivery: • Next-day delivery of prescribed medications • Medications shipped directly to your door • Secure packaging and proper handling of all prescriptions • Tracking information provided for all shipments • No need to visit a pharmacy or wait in line Emergency Support: • While we don't handle true emergencies, we can often accommodate urgent consultations • For immediate emergencies, we'll help you locate the nearest emergency veterinary clinic • Follow-up care after emergency visits can be provided through our platform Our goal is to make veterinary care as accessible and convenient as possible, reducing stress for both you and your pet while ensuring they receive the professional care they deserve.

Preparing for your TelaVets consultation is simple and straightforward: Technology Requirements: • Computer, tablet, or smartphone with camera and microphone • Stable internet connection for video calling • Quiet, well-lit space for the consultation • The Zoom app (we'll send you a secure link) What to Have Ready: • Your pet (calm and accessible for examination) • Any previous medical records or test results • List of current medications and supplements • Photos or videos of symptoms (if applicable) • Your pet's weight (if known) • Questions or concerns you want to discuss During the Appointment: • Our vet will guide you through any physical examination steps • Be prepared to hold or position your pet as directed • Take notes on treatment recommendations • Ask questions about care instructions The entire process is designed to be user-friendly, and our veterinarians are experienced in conducting thorough examinations through video consultations. They'll walk you through everything step by step.

Our licensed veterinarians are ready to help.

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Only $65 per visit • Next-day medication delivery