What can/can't chickens eat?
Knowing which foods are safe and beneficial for chickens, and which are harmful or toxic, is crucial for their health. This question covers appropriate treats and supplements, as well as dangerous substances to avoid.
- Provide Commercial Layer Feed as Staple5
Solution
Feed a commercially formulated layer feed appropriate for their age as the main part of their diet (90%).
Explanation
Commercial feeds are scientifically balanced to provide the correct levels of protein, calcium, vitamins, and minerals needed for health and egg production. Layer feed (typically 16% protein) has added calcium for strong eggshells.
Notes
Choose crumble or pellet form. Ensure it's appropriate for laying hens (usually started around 18 weeks).
📌 feeding 🛠️ Commercial layer feed4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
solution - Offer Safe Kitchen Scraps in Moderation4
Solution
Supplement diet with safe scraps like leafy greens, cooked rice/pasta, non-sugary cereals, fruits (berries, melon), vegetables (cucumbers, cooked squash).
Explanation
Many kitchen scraps offer variety and enrichment. Focus on healthy options. Treats should not exceed 10% of their total diet to avoid nutritional imbalances.
Notes
Chop larger items into manageable pieces. Remove uneaten scraps promptly to avoid attracting pests or spoilage.
📌 feeding 🛠️ Safe kitchen scraps4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
solution - Provide Supplemental Calcium (Oyster Shell)5
Solution
Offer crushed oyster shell or limestone grit in a separate container for laying hens.
Explanation
Laying hens require significant calcium for eggshell formation, often more than what's in standard layer feed. Providing it separately allows hens to consume extra calcium as needed.
Notes
Do not mix calcium directly into the feed; let hens self-regulate. Start offering around the time they begin laying.
📌 feeding 🛠️ Crushed oyster shell or Limestone grit, Separate small feeder4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
solution - Limit Scratch Grains3
Solution
Offer scratch grains (like cracked corn and mixed grains) only as an occasional treat, especially in the afternoon.
Explanation
Scratch grains are like candy for chickens – high in carbohydrates/energy but relatively low in protein and essential nutrients. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and dilute the nutritional value of their main feed.
Notes
Best given in small amounts late in the day, as digesting them generates some body heat, which can be beneficial in cold weather.
📌 feeding 🛠️ Scratch grains4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
solution - Provide Grit for Digestion4
Solution
Offer insoluble grit (small stones/granite chips) if chickens do not have regular access to forage on varied ground.
Explanation
Chickens don't have teeth; they use grit stored in their gizzard to grind down food, especially whole grains or fibrous greens. Free-ranging birds usually pick up enough naturally.
Notes
Offer grit in a separate container. Chicks on starter crumble/mash usually don't need grit until they start eating other things.
📌 feeding 🛠️ Insoluble poultry grit, Separate small feeder4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
solution