Protein Needs, Molting, and Extra Support
By The Coop Team · Updated July 3, 2026
Quick answer
Hens need 18-20% protein during their fall molt for 6-8 weeks to support feather regrowth and overall health. High-protein treats include scrambled eggs and mealworms. Avoid low-protein scratch grains to maximize nutrient intake during this critical period.
Key facts
- Protein percentage during molt
- 18-20%
- Duration of increased protein requirement
- 6-8 weeks
- Feathers composition
- 85% protein
Importance of Protein During Molt
Feathers are about 85% protein (mostly keratin), so a hen going through the annual fall molt is essentially rebuilding her whole coat out of protein while egg production tanks. During molt, bump the flock to 18-20% protein (all-flock or a grower feed) for 6-8 weeks.
Molt-Support Treats
Good molt-support treats include:
- Scrambled eggs
- Black oil sunflower seeds
- Mealworms (see the mealworm entry for the FDA caveat)
- Sardines packed in water
- Cooked lentils
- Pumpkin seeds
Skip the low-protein scratch grain during molt, as it dilutes the diet right when the birds need the opposite.
Additional Protein Needs
Growing chicks, breeding roosters, and birds recovering from injury also do better on the 18-20% protein range.
Signs of Protein Shortage
Signs of protein shortage include:
- Slow feather regrowth
- Pale ragged feathers
- Feather picking in the flock
- Low egg production well after molt should have ended.
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