[ghost61]

I am thinking of trying an automatic feeder to dispense a little corn late afternoon when I am away for a day.  Was looking at one of the battery operated cat feeders that have two or more trays that pop open at a set time. Has anyone tried something like this? I think you would have to fix it in place to prevent the hens from tipping it over, but I thought it might be a way of giving them a treat at the right time of day to ensure that they ate the pellets first.

Any other suggestions of similar devices welcome!

[Sassy]

I have a friend that uses two 7- day cat feeders to good effect. they are large and if situated correctly would be diificult to upturn.

[8doubles]

How greedy is the top hen? If you do not spread it around will she scoff the lot .

To be honest i think most people (self included) overdo it with the treats to the extent it can affect laying and health.
Going without for a day will do them no harm.

[ghost61]

They are very good at sharing, so that isn't a concern.  As the nights are getting colder I think a bit of corn to help them keep warm through the night isn't a bad thing.