Treats for chickens: doing more harm than good?
Occasionally, we all indulge our chickens with special treats. However, is this act of kindness actually leading to their demise?
Feeding treats is traditionally a gesture of care, whether it’s for children or chickens.
However, is it feasible to excessively indulge our chickens?
Absolutely, it is correct to state that it is not advisable to indulge our chickens with treats on a daily basis, or without any valid justification.
To ensure the optimal health and growth of our flock, it is imperative that we provide them with a high-quality feed that offers a balanced nutritional intake throughout their lifecycle.
There is compelling evidence that numerous backyard chickens are excessively fed, resulting in obesity, which is a concern for both chickens and humans, and contributing to Sudden Chicken Death Syndrome.
Certainly, there exists no denial that certain natural “indulgences” can be immensely beneficial for chickens. These can effectively enhance their immune system, enrich their diet with essential vitamins and minerals, and in certain instances, even prevent severe illnesses without causing any further health complications.
It is crucial to understand the distinction: when and how to provide treats for chickens, and what are the most suitable chicken treats. It is essential to differentiate between those treats that can be safely fed at any time and those that may potentially cause problems, for instance.
Naturally occurring treats are always more preferable than commercially produced ones, as the latter often contain added sugars and fats.
Certainly, cultivating, harvesting, and providing nourishing treats to your own chickens is immensely rewarding. It’s not only cost-effective but also satisfying to know that you’ve only added pure, natural ingredients.
