{"id":9531,"date":"2021-07-11T09:36:26","date_gmt":"2021-07-11T09:36:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/farmandanimals.com\/?p=9531"},"modified":"2021-10-10T09:20:20","modified_gmt":"2021-10-10T09:20:20","slug":"what-can-chickens-eat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/farmandanimals.com\/what-can-chickens-eat\/","title":{"rendered":"What Can Chickens Eat [And What To Avoid]"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Chickens<\/a> are omnivores and enjoy a wide variety of foods, including vegetables, fruits, insects, and meat. There are, however, things that can be bad for your birds and may even kill them. In this article, we\u2019re going to be asking what can chickens eat and providing you with some valuable lists for guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Can Chickens Eat? List<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"what<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Chickens can eat and enjoy many of the same foods that we do. These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Almonds<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Chopped unsalted almonds, ground, or almond flour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Apples<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Deseeded apples, apple sauce, windfall apples. High in sugar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Asparagus<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

High in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, but many chickens won\u2019t eat it, and it may taint the taste of the eggs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bananas<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

High in vitamins B6, C & A and contain niacin, iron, magnesium, and other trace elements. They tend not to enjoy eating Banana peel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beans<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

ONLY cooked beans, raw or dried beans, are toxic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bell Peppers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fruit only, as the rest of the plant contains solanine and is toxic.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Blueberries<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

High in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Turns poop blue!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bread<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fed in moderation. Although chickens enjoy eating it, it is typically low in nutrients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Broccoli<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

All brassica family veggies (Broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips) should be fed in moderation<\/strong>. They contain goitrogens<\/a> that can cause thyroid gland issues in birds as well as immune, reproductive, metabolic, skin, and feather problems. It is, however, high in various minerals and vitamins. Birds usually prefer it cooked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brussels Sprouts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

All brassica family veggies (Broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips) should be fed in moderation<\/strong>. They contain goitrogens that can cause thyroid gland issues in birds as well as immune, reproductive, metabolic, skin, and feather problems. It is, however, high in various minerals and vitamins. Birds usually prefer it cooked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cabbage<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Packed full of trace minerals and vitamins. It is a member of the brassica family of veggies (Broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips). It should be fed in moderation<\/strong>, as it contains goitrogens that can cause thyroid gland issues in birds as well as immune, reproductive, metabolic, skin, and feather problems. It is, however, high in various minerals and vitamins. Birds usually prefer it cooked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cantaloupe<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

High in vitamins A & C and the B\u2019s, but should be fed in moderation as it may cause diarrhea in some birds. The seeds are also edible and healthy for chickens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrots<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Raw or cooked, carrots are full of vitamins and minerals. The green tops can be eaten too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cat Food<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It is very rich and can cause upset if too much is given. Both dry and wet cat food can be fed in minimal amounts. Can sometimes be useful for sick chickens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cauliflower<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Like the other brassica family of veggies (Broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips), it should only feed in moderation<\/strong>. It contains goitrogens that can cause thyroid gland issues in birds as well as immune, reproductive, metabolic, skin, and feather problems. Contains healthy minerals and vitamins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Celery<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A good source of vitamins B2, B6, C & K. Also contains trace minerals potassium, fiber, and calcium. Many birds don\u2019t like it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cereal<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Breakfast-type cereal contains a lot of added sugars, so only give in very small quantities infrequently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cheese<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Like humans, chickens can\u2019t process dairy very well. It is a good source of protein and calcium that may be given in moderation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cherries<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cherries are filled with vitamin goodness with A, C, E & K, plus minerals. Another valuable component is choline, essential for chicken health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chia Seeds<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Very nutritious, they form a gel in the gut, which can act as a soothing coating. Feed it mixed with other seeds or as part of a scratch grain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chicken<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As dreadful as it sounds, Chickens will eat chicken. They are opportunists by nature, and it is an excellent source of protein. Give your hens your chicken carcass to pick clean. As the skin is very high in fat, it is best removed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Citrus<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Most chickens won\u2019t eat citrus. It is very healthy, but may taint the taste of eggs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Corn<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

All types of corn on the cob, fresh, canned, or frozen, can be given. Useful in winter to maintain weight and body temperature in cold weather<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Crickets<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

These are high in protein minerals and trace elements. Enjoyed as a snack.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cucumbers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Useful on hot days to supplement water intake.  Full of vitamins and minerals and have anti-inflammatory properties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dog Food<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Only feed in extreme moderation. Like cat food, it is very rich but can be helpful for a sick hen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eggs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

They love eggs. Make sure they can\u2019t recognize an egg, or they might start eating their own. Better if you cook it first and feed it scrambled. It can be helpful to feed to chicks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fish<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Raw or cooked. Chickens also like eating the guts. High in protein and minerals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Flowers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Some, but not all flowers are safe for chickens to eat. Normally, they seem to know which plants are toxic, but it\u2019s always best to check!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fruit<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fruit can be fed in moderation as it is generally high in sugar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Garlic<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It can be very beneficial to chickens when given in feed or water providing it is done in moderation. Excess garlic can cause an imbalance in good gut bacteria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Grapefruit<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Citrus fruit is beneficial in moderate amounts. Most chickens don\u2019t like it, however.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Grapes<\/strong> <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

These are high in vitamins A & C and B and trace elements including calcium and copper. They have a very high sugar content so feed sparingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Grass<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Grass clippings free from chemicals are good for chickens. Avoid giving long grass strands as they can cause an impacted crop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Green Beans<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cooked beans are OK to feed. As few as 3 raw, dried, or undercooked beans can be deadly as they contain phytohemagglutinin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ham<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This is generally high in salt and preservatives, so it should be fed very sparingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kale<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As with other brassicas (Broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips), only feed in moderation<\/strong>, as it contains goitrogens that can cause thyroid gland issues in birds as well as immune, reproductive, metabolic, skin, and feather problems. Contains healthy minerals and vitamins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kiwi<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants but is high in sugar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lettuce<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Has relatively low nutritional value (iceberg lettuce has none at all), so only give as an occasional treat. Whole lettuce can be hung for chickens to peck at for entertainment.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mango<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It is very nutritious but also high in sugars and carbohydrates. Feed sparingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mealworms<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Very high in protein, and are great to give as an occasional healthy treat, especially when chickens are going through a molt. Feed either fresh or dried.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meat<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Some people believe giving chickens raw meat may turn them to cannibalism. If you feed it, trim off any excess fat first. They like to strip your cooked turkey or chicken carcasses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Melon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fed in moderation as high in sugar, they enjoy the flesh and seeds.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nuts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

High in good omega 3 fats. It should be chopped first. Never feed moldy nuts<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oatmeal<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a winter warmer, oatmeal is good mixed with birdseed for an occasional treat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oats<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Raw or cooked oats contain vitamins and minerals and also some protein.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oranges<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although they are acceptable to feed, most chickens don\u2019t like citrus fruits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pasta<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Very high in carbohydrates and of little nutritional value, so only give sparingly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Peaches<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Peaches with the pits removed are nutritious treats with vitamins, fiber, and minerals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pears<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Lower in sugar than many other fruits, it makes a good snack for your birds. Not all chickens seem to like them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Peas<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

High in protein, suitable for feeding during molt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pecans<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Chop to aid digestion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Peppers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although bell pepper fruits can be fed to chickens, all other parts of the plant are toxic as it contains Solanine. Most chickens won\u2019t eat peppers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pineapple<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

High in vitamins and minerals, pineapple is also high in sugar. It is not favored by most chickens. Can cause fiber balls to build up in the crop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plums<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remove pits first as they contain minute amounts of cyanide. High in sugar, feed sparingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pomegranate<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Low in sugar, high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. A healthy snack for your chickens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Popcorn<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Contains vitamins A, E & K, plus minerals and fiber. Don\u2019t feed salted, sweetened or flavored popcorn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Potatoes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cooked potatoes can be given to chickens. Don\u2019t feed any part of a green potato as this contains the poison Solanine.  The plant itself is toxic as it is a member of the nightshade family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pumpkin<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The flush contains vitamins and minerals and is low in sugar. Pumpkin seeds may aid in the prevention of worms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quinoa<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Nutritious and rich in fiber, minerals, antioxidants, and all nine essential amino acids<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Radishes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Packed with vitamins and minerals. Chickens will also eat the leaves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rice<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Do not feed uncooked rice as it can expand in the gut and cause blockages. Cooked rice can be provided, although white rice has little nutritional value. Wild or brown rice is better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Squash<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Chickens enjoy squashes of all types. They are highly nutritious and can be fed cooked or raw.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strawberries<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Most chickens love strawberries. High in trace vitamins A, C & B9, and trace elements. They are rich in antioxidants and an anti-inflammatory component called quercetin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sunflower Seeds<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Black oil sunflower seeds are generally preferred over gray or striped varieties. Great treat for the oil and fat content, especially in winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sweet Potatoes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Packed with vitamins. Prefer them cooked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tomatoes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Safest fed cooked. They are high in vitamin C, K & B9, fiber, the mineral potassium, and antioxidants. The plant, leaves, and flowers contain Solanine and are poisonous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Walnuts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

 As with other nuts, chop roughly first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Watermelon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

 Full of vitamins and is a useful addition for its high water content in summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yogurt<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although chickens cannot process dairy products very well, yogurt with live cultures is good for intestinal health. It also provides extra calcium.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Zucchini<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A good source of vitamins and minerals. As with pumpkin, the seeds may help worm chickens. Top of Form<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Can Chickens Not Eat? List<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"what<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, some foods are not so good for chickens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Avocado<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The skin, stone, and leaves of an avocado contain persin, which is highly toxic to chickens. Although the flesh is OK to eat, it may not be worth the risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beans<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Raw, dried, or undercooked beans are highly toxic to chickens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Candy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Candy is full of sugar and chemicals that are very bad for your bird\u2019s health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chocolate<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Contains theobromine that is toxic to chickens.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coffee Grounds<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Contains caffeine and has no nutritional value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eggplant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The leaves, stems, and flowers all contain the toxin solanine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Junk Food<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

French fries, burgers, pizza, etc. are all too high in salt, sugar, carbohydrates, and bad fats for your chickens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moldy Bread<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Never feed any moldy food to chickens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Onions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Contain many vitamins and minerals but if given in excess can cause hemolytic anemia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Peanuts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although skinless cooked, unsalted peanuts are OK for chickens, raw peanuts should be avoided because they contain a potentially harmful enzyme – trypsin. Both trypsin and solanine are present in peanut skins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pickles<\/strong> <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Avoid, as they are processed and contain high amounts of salt or sugar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Potatoes<\/strong> <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Green potatoes or green potato peel contain the toxin solanine. The plant’s stem, leaves, and flowers should not be eaten as it is toxic, being a member of the nightshade family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Raisins<\/strong> <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

They can make your birds very sick with renal failure. They are also very high in sugar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rhubarb<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Contains high amounts of oxalic acid, which can be deadly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Spinach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although packed with vitamins and minerals, it also contains oxalic acid, which can cause serious health problems in chickens. It is safer not to feed it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tomato Plants<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although chickens can eat ripe tomatoes (preferably cooked), they cannot eat the plant, leaves, or flowers due to the solanine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tuna Fish<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Avoid giving your chickens tuna fish as it may have a high mercury content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this video, you can get a few ideas for some great summertime treats to help keep your chickens hydrated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=dUyNQ_Sa7Qc<\/a>