Like all pets, there are tasty morsels that chickens absolutely go crazy for. Some are super healthy, and can be given to your flock regularly, others the chickens love to gobble up but are more of a sometimes treat.
If your chickens have been on their best behaviour, reward them with some of these yummy treat ideas, alongside their usual diet of feed, grit and fresh water.
Often
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Berries (frozen or fresh)
Berries are a favourite amongst chickens. Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries or blueberries- it doesn’t matter, you will be hard pressed to find a chicken that doesn’t love the taste of these super sweet treats! Scatter a few of the fresh variety in the run and delight in watching your chickens gobble up these tasty morsels.
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Oatmeal
It’s a great winter warmer for us humans, but did you know that chickens love a hearty bowl of oatmeal too? While it may be a treat, oats are full of nutrients that will keep your chickens fighting fit and their tummies warm and happy! So when you next make your morning bowl of oats, make double for your flock, being sure to use water in place of milk. You can also add a number of toppings to make it extra appealing. Some of our favourites include, raisins, scratch, mealworms, sunflower seeds, berries and dried or fresh herbs- spoilt hens indeed!
Sometimes
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Yoghurt
Given very sparingly, plain yoghurt is a great treat, and can help promote a healthy digestive system in chickens. Many believe that yoghurt can’t be broken down properly by chickens, but this is only if it is given to them very regularly and in large portions. Just a small amount on their feeding dish is great to cool them down on particularly hot days, and they go crazy for the taste!
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Cracked Corn
While corn doesn’t have the greatest nutritional value for chickens, it does contribute to those beautiful, vibrant orange egg yolks, is a great energy hit for your girls, and most chooks go crazy over it!
Remember, chickens with personality need a coop with character. Our range of coops that include the Taj Mahal, Penthouse and Mansion will be the sweetest treat for any chicken at the beginning and end of everyday.
From hydration to healthy diets, we all want to do an eggcellent job when caring for our feathered friends. It's essential that you've got the right knowledge you need to raise happy, healthy chooks. Did you know 67% of chicken keepers surveyed experienced a chicken health or behaviour issue in the first 12 months that they didn’t know how to handle?
But don’t worry! Our feathered friends over at Chickenpedia have created a Chicken Healthcare Course. It is a comprehensive online course that includes everything you need, including what to look for in an unhealthy chicken and how to support your egg-laying hens to optimal health. All of their courses are really well structured and filled with vital information, which is why I highly recommend them to all of my readers! From raising baby chicks to feeding to behavior, you’ll find valuable expert advice that’ll give you the knowledge and confidence to successfully look after your chickens.
Check out Chickenpedia today. As a member, you will also get access to the ALL of their chicken courses!
For more great treat ideas, check out these articles:
What Foods Should I NOT Feed My Chickens?
Give Your Chickens A Protein Kick
