What Can and Can’t Chickens Eat?
Feeding chickens a balanced diet is essential for their health, egg production, and overall well-being. While chickens can eat a wide variety of foods, there are certain items they should avoid. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what chickens can and cannot eat:
What Chickens Can Eat
Grains and Seeds
- Corn
- Wheat
- Oats
- Barley
- Millet
Vegetables and Greens
- Lettuce
- Kale
- Spinach
- Cabbage
- Carrots (chopped)
- Broccoli
- Pumpkin and squash (seeds removed)
- Cucumbers
- Peas
Fruits
- Apples (seeds removed)
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Melons (watermelon, cantaloupe)
- Bananas
- Grapes
- Peaches (pits removed)
Protein Sources
- Mealworms
- Crickets
- Cooked eggs
- Fish (cooked, bones removed)
- Meat scraps (cooked, without seasoning)
Other Treats
- Plain yogurt
- Cheese (in moderation)
- Bread (stale or fresh, but not moldy)
- Rice (cooked)
- Pasta (cooked)
Herbs
- Parsley
- Cilantro
- Basil
- Oregano
- Mint
What Chickens Should Not Eat
Toxic Foods
- Avocado (especially the pit and skin)
- Green or sprouted potatoes
- Tomato leaves
- Rhubarb leaves
- Onions
- Chocolate
- Coffee grounds
- Tea bags
- Alcohol
- Raw beans (especially kidney beans)
Foods High in Salt or Sugar
- Salty snacks
- Sugary cereals
- Processed foods with high salt or sugar content
Foods That Can Cause Digestive Issues
- Uncooked rice
- Citrus fruits (can be given in small amounts but may cause digestive upset in large quantities)
- Moldy or spoiled food
- Junk food (chips, candy, etc.)
Plants and Flowers
- Nightshade plants (e.g., eggplant leaves, pepper leaves)
- Foxglove
- Buttercup
- Daffodils
- Azaleas
Other Considerations
- Raw meat: Can carry harmful bacteria.
- Dairy products: Can be given in small amounts, but too much can cause diarrhea.
- Bones: Small bones can be a choking hazard.
Summary
Safe Foods for Chickens
- Grains, seeds, most vegetables, fruits, protein sources (in moderation), and certain herbs are generally safe and beneficial.
Foods to Avoid
- Toxic foods (e.g., avocado, green potatoes), high salt or sugar foods, certain raw beans, and moldy or spoiled foods should be avoided.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your chickens have a healthy, balanced diet that promotes their well-being and productivity. Always introduce new foods gradually and in moderation, and observe your chickens for any adverse reactions.