Keeping chickens can be a fulfilling endeavor, whether for fresh eggs, garden pest control, or simple companionship. But with the responsibility of care comes the need to provide proper nutrition. While chickens thrive on a balanced diet of complete feed, treats can offer nutritional variety and entertainment—if given appropriately. Not all foods are safe or beneficial for your flock, and some common foods can even be harmful.

What Treats to Feed Your Chickens

Adding treats to your chickens' diet can provide a boost of vitamins, minerals, and protein. Here are seven great options:

1. Berries (Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries)

Berries are a nutritional powerhouse for chickens, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and hydration. They can boost the immune system and are generally well-loved by poultry. Be sure to offer berries in moderation to avoid digestive issues and excess sugar intake.

2. Dark Leafy Greens (Kale, Chard, Turnip Greens)

Dark leafy greens provide an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium and iron. Feeding greens to your flock not only boosts their overall health but can also enrich egg yolk color, giving it a deeper, more appealing hue. Offer greens fresh, but avoid overfeeding, as too much can cause digestive issues.

3. Mealworms

Mealworms are a favorite high-protein snack that serves as a great boost during molting or other high-stress times when chickens need to replenish their feathers. Mealworms can be offered fresh, dried, or even live, providing both nutrition and foraging stimulation.

4. Pumpkin and Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkins are not just for decoration—they’re great for your chickens too! Both the flesh and seeds are loaded with vitamins A and C, and the seeds are believed to act as a natural dewormer. You can serve pumpkins raw, baked, or even carved to give chickens a treat they can peck at for hours.

5. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is especially comforting during cold weather, providing warmth and energy. It should always be prepared with water, not milk, and can be customized with healthy toppings like raisins, seeds, or chopped fruit for added nutritional value. However, keep portions moderate to avoid digestive distress.

6. Yogurt (Plain, Unsweetened)

Plain, unsweetened yogurt offers probiotics that can improve your flock’s digestion and gut health. Chickens generally enjoy its creamy texture. To avoid digestive problems, serve yogurt sparingly and as an occasional treat.

7. Watermelon and Other Melons

During hot weather, offering watermelon and other melons can help keep your flock hydrated while providing vitamins and antioxidants. Chickens often relish pecking away at the juicy flesh, making it a fun and nutritious treat.

8. Corn (Cooked or Cracked)

Corn is an energy-rich treat that can keep chickens warm during colder months. Whether cooked or cracked, it can be fed in moderation to provide extra calories, but excessive amounts should be avoided to prevent weight gain.

What to Skip: Foods That Can Harm Your Chickens

Some foods can be toxic or unhealthy for chickens, causing serious health issues. Here are a few treats to avoid:

1. Avocado (Pits and Skins)

The pits and skins of avocados contain persin, a toxin that can be deadly to chickens. The flesh is less harmful but best avoided altogether to eliminate any risk.

2. Raw or Dried Beans

Beans that are uncooked or dried contain hemagglutinin, which disrupts digestion and can lead to toxicity. To ensure safety, always cook beans thoroughly before feeding.

3. Green Potato Skins

Solanine, found in green potato skins, is a toxin that can cause serious health problems in chickens. Remove green parts before feeding or skip potatoes altogether.

4. Chocolate and Caffeine Products

Chocolate, coffee grounds, and other caffeinated products contain theobromine, which can be highly toxic to chickens, leading to neurological and cardiac issues.

5. Rhubarb Leaves

Rhubarb leaves are harmful due to their high levels of oxalic acid and anthraquinones, which can cause digestive problems and potentially fatal toxicity.

6. Moldy or Spoiled Foods

Never feed moldy or rotten foods to chickens, as they can contain harmful toxins and mycotoxins. Stick to fresh, clean treats to avoid health risks.

7. Salty and Processed Foods

Excess salt can lead to severe electrolyte imbalances and health complications. Avoid feeding processed foods, salty snacks, and heavily seasoned leftovers.

8. Raw Eggplant (Nightshade Family)

Eggplant, along with other members of the nightshade family (e.g., tomatoes and bell peppers) can contain toxic compounds if not ripened fully. Remove any green or raw parts before feeding.

Tips for Feeding Chickens Treats

• Follow the 90/10 Rule: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your chickens’ diet. A complete feed should be their primary source of nutrition.

• Offer Treats at Appropriate Times: It’s best to feed treats after your chickens have consumed their complete feed, ensuring they receive essential nutrients first.

• Monitor Portion Sizes: Even healthy treats can cause problems if given in excess. Provide small portions and observe how your flock responds.

• Encourage Foraging: Scatter treats like seeds or mealworms to encourage natural behaviors such as foraging, scratching, and exploring.

• Avoid Feeding Baby Chicks Treats: For the first few weeks, chicks should rely exclusively on a starter feed that provides all necessary nutrients. Introducing treats too early can disrupt their dietary balance.

Conclusion

Treats can be a wonderful addition to your chickens' diet, enriching their nutrition and adding variety to their routine. When done thoughtfully and with care, giving treats can improve their overall health, egg production, and happiness. From nutrient-dense berries and greens to high-protein mealworms, there are many beneficial options to choose from. However, not all foods are safe—steer clear of harmful items like avocado pits, raw beans, and moldy food. By following expert advice, adhering to recommended feeding guidelines, and providing balanced nutrition, your flock will flourish.

With a little effort, you can offer treats that bring joy and nourishment to your chickens, supporting their health and making every cluck worth it. Happy feeding!