Giving treats to chickens is fun and helps with bonding, but not everything is safe. Some foods are great for their health, while others can cause sickness or even death. Here’s a clear list to guide you.
GOOD TREATS FOR CHICKENS
These treats are healthy, safe, and loved by chickens:
- Cooked rice and pasta
Easy to digest and gives energy. Just avoid salt and spices. - Vegetable scraps (carrots, cabbage, spinach)
Full of vitamins and fiber. Great for digestion and egg quality. - Fruits (bananas, watermelon, apples)
Sweet and hydrating. Give in small amounts to avoid sugar overload. - Corn and grains
Good for energy, especially in cold weather. Don’t overfeed. - Mealworms and insects
High in protein. Helps with feather growth and egg laying. - Boiled eggs (crushed with shell)
Packed with protein and calcium. Shells help strengthen their own eggs.
BAD TREATS FOR CHICKENS
These can harm your chickens or make them sick:
- Raw beans
Contain toxins that can kill chickens. Always cook beans fully. - Chocolate and candy
Too much sugar and toxic ingredients like theobromine. - Avocado (especially the pit and skin)
Contains persin, which is poisonous to birds. - Green potato peels
Have solanine, a harmful chemical that affects the nervous system. - Moldy or spoiled food
Can cause infections and digestive problems. Always give fresh scraps. - Salty or greasy foods
Chickens can’t handle too much salt or fat. It affects their organs.
TIP:
Treats should be no more than 10% of their daily diet. Always give clean water and balanced feed first, then treats as a bonus.






