Why Summer Heat Affects Eggshells
When temperatures rise, chickens naturally eat less and drink more to keep cool. But less feed often means less calcium intake—and calcium is the key ingredient in strong shells.
At the same time, your birds are losing more moisture through panting and respiration, which can impact how their bodies regulate shell formation.
In short:
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More heat = more stress
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More stress = less calcium absorption
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Less calcium = weaker eggshells
Hydration First: Clean, Fresh Water is Critical
Hydration is everything in the summer—not just for comfort, but for egg quality too.
Coop Care’s AciMate is a safe, natural water additive that helps keep your flock’s water clean and palatable during the heat of summer. Unlike ACV, AciMate supports healthy digestion and hydration without affecting water quality or encouraging algae growth.
Why use AciMate?
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Keeps water fresh and clean longer
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Supports gut health and mineral absorption
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Encourages birds to drink more water (essential in the heat)
When your hens drink more, they stay cool, digest better, and absorb more nutrients—including calcium.
Boost Calcium (The Right Way)
Most laying hens need 4–5 grams of calcium per day, especially in hot weather when absorption is lower. A few ways to make sure they’re getting enough:
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Offer free-choice oyster shell or crushed eggshells in a separate container
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Choose a layer feed that includes bioavailable calcium
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Make sure treats don’t replace too much of their balanced feed
If your birds are laying soft, rough, or misshapen eggs—this is a clear sign it’s time to bump up their calcium and hydration.
Add Organic Scratch for Steady Production
Egg production can slow down in the summer—not just from heat stress, but from nutritional gaps. That’s why adding a high-quality, organic scratch grain can help maintain steady laying.
We love Chicken’s Choice Organic Chicken Scratch because it’s made with natural, nutrient-rich grains that provide energy and variety without sacrificing quality.
Why scratch matters in summer:
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Adds interest and nutrition without disrupting feed balance
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Encourages foraging and natural behaviors
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Supports energy and protein needs during molt or heat stress
👉 Shop Chicken’s Choice Organic Scratch →
Final Tips to Improve Summer Eggshell Quality
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Offer shade and ventilation in your coop
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Mist or freeze treats to cool them off naturally
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Collect eggs often—heat can cause further shell breakdown
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Keep stress low with quiet, consistent routines
Keep It Cool, Keep It Clean, Keep It Consistent
Your hens are working hard this summer—so give them the support they need with hydration, calcium, and smart supplementation.
Better water + better nutrition = better eggs.
And with a little help from AciMate and Chicken’s Choice Scratch, you’ll be collecting strong, healthy shells all season long.
