# Chicken Winter Care UK — Quick answer

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/chicken-winter-care-uk): Chicken Winter Care UK — Quick answer. UK chicken winter care: unfrozen water, dry ventilated coop, and frostbite checks on combs. Ventilation prevents ammonia build-up — but block icy direct drafts on roosting birds. Egg laying slows in short days — normal unless birds look unwell.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/chicken-winter-care-uk): Chicken Winter Care UK — Coop balance. According to the RSPCA and Defra poultry welfare guidance, chickens need a dry coop with airflow high in the structure — but without icy drafts directly on roosting birds at night. In practice: - Ventilation high in the coop — wet, ammonia-heavy air causes respiratory disease - No direct freezing wind on the roost at night - Deep, dry litter — damp bedding causes chill

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/chicken-winter-care-uk): Chicken Winter Care UK — Frostbite prevention. - Rub petroleum-free protective products on large combs if advised by poultry vet - Consider cold-hardy breeds for exposed sites - Roosts wide enough for feet to stay flat and covered

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/chicken-winter-care-uk): Chicken Winter Care UK — Feeding. Increase scratch grains sparingly — primarily complete layer feed and constant grit. Body condition should stay stable — feel breast bone monthly.

Source: https://pethealth.org.uk/health/chicken-winter-care-uk