A proper balanced diet for pet chickens is vital to ensure their health, well-being, and steady egg production. Chickens are omnivores, meaning they can eat a wide variety of plant- and animal-based foods. However, their diet must be tailored to their age, activity level, and overall condition to keep them healthy for years to come.
Layer feed: the daily foundation
A complete layer feed in pellet form should be the main component of their diet. It provides essential nutrients based on:
- Their age (young, adult, senior)
- Their laying status (active or not)
An adult chicken typically consumes 100 to 150 grams of pellets per day.
To preserve the quality of the feed:
- Store it in a dry, cool place
- Use it before the expiration date
- Avoid exposure to heat and humidity
Natural foods: for enrichment, not substitution
Chickens love scratching and foraging. If they have access to a safe backyard, they may eat:
- Insects, snails, greens, as long as the area is chemical-free
- Scattered grains, which encourage natural feeding behaviors
⚠️ These items should be used for enrichment only. Too many grains or treats can lead to nutritional imbalances.
Table scraps: safe in moderation
Some leftovers are safe for chickens, others should be limited, and some must be avoided.
✅ Safe to feed:
- Vegetable peels
- Cooked potatoes
- Plain scrambled eggs
- Crushed eggshells or oyster shells
⚠️ Feed sparingly:
- Cooked pasta or rice (unseasoned)
- Soaked dry bread
- Plain yogurt
- Cheese rinds
🚫 Strictly avoid:
- Fatty, fried, sugary, or salty foods
- Seasoned meat scraps
- Onions, leeks, garlic (alter egg taste)
- Citrus fruits
- Expired or spoiled foods
Toxic foods: never feed these
Some foods are highly toxic and must never be given to chickens:
- Toxic plants and fruits: avocado, rhubarb, raw potato, tomato and potato plants, yew, laurel, holly, rhododendron, lily
- Stimulants: chocolate, coffee
Hydration: essential every day
A chicken drinks 300 to 600 mL of water daily. To keep them well hydrated:
- Provide clean, fresh water at all times
- Clean waterers regularly to prevent bacterial growth
Poor hydration can affect both health and egg-laying performance.
Adjusting the diet as needed
Chickens’ dietary needs change with their:
- Age
- Activity level
- Health status
For example:
- A laying hen needs more calcium
- A senior chicken may need easier-to-digest feed
When in doubt, consult your avian veterinarian for personalized recommendations.
