What we feed our animals affects their health and happiness, just like dogs and cats, chickens can suffer if they don’t get the right nutrients in their diets or eat too many treats. It’s important to keep feeders clean and to always provide fresh, clean water for your flock.
Pellet Food
A good basis for your chicken’s diet is a high quality pellet intended for laying hens. These poultry pellets contain the correct amount of proteins and nutrients for your hens. For variety and as a treat you can also add in grain such as corn or wheat. Don’t be too generous though as too much grain can lead to weight gain and obesity with a drop in egg production.
Greens
Chickens will enjoy fruit and veg scraps such as vegetable peelings, apple cores and broccoli trimmings, these make a healthy addition to their diet. Avoid giving any old kitchen scraps which can be high in salt and fat, or any left over cooked food.
Grit
Chickens don’t have teeth, instead they swallow grit to digest their food. Make sure they have a supply of grit (crushed oyster shells are a popular choice as this also provides calcium), this can either be mixed with their food or in a separate feeder.
Treats
The occasional treat can be a welcome addition to your hen’s diet when given in moderation, mealworms are a good option.
Call us on 01435 864422 if you have any questions about your chicken care.
