by Kim Berg, CoopCrate staff writer
If you’re reading this, you’re probably a loving chicken keeper who already strives for happy chickens. May that be the case, it’s never a bad idea to check in and see if there’s anything else you can do to ensure a happy flock! Here are 7 ways to help your chickens live their very best lives.
1. Create A Safe Place
First, your flock can’t live life to the fullest if they’re constantly having to watch out for predators and other threats. Do your part to make their home free of pests and other dangers that could make them feel stressed or unsafe. Stress can lead to an inability to lay eggs, and no one wants to see that!
2. Provide Clean Water
Once safety isn’t a concern, you’ll want to make sure you’re giving your flock clean water daily! Chickens aren’t always the cleanest, so it’s no surprise to find dirt and other messes in their water. You can also try a contained water system to keep your chickens from contaminating the clean water that has yet to come out. You can make one at home or find one online that works best for you!
3. Let There Be Dust
Now that we’re clear on clean water, let’s get a little dirty! Dust baths are a natural way for chickens to rid themselves of parasites and other common intruders. If you provide the dust, they will do the rest! If you’re looking for ways to create a dust bathing facility, read this. Dust baths also help chickens cool off in the warmer months.
4. Give Them Space
Next, no chicken likes being cooped up all day (pun intended). Just as you need your space, your chickens do too! Give them plenty of room to wander and explore if you want to make them happy. Providing a big space may be more difficult for our urban keepers, but do your best to give them at least 8 square feet per bird. If free-ranging is an option, allow your chickens to roam outside of the coop to greatly boost their overall well-being.
5. Boost Their Health
The next great way to keep your flock happy and healthy is with supplements! Diatomaceous earth and herbs, apple cider vinegar, molasses, and garlic are great supplements to add to their diet! If you’re looking for something with more “oomph”, we offer exclusive supplements just for chickens in CoopCrate!
6. Keep Them Entertained
Another great way to keep your chickens happy is by keeping them busy. Try giving them toys and other attention-grabbing items, like a chicken swing or hanging cabbage/lettuce to avoid boredom. These items won’t just cure your flock’s boredom, you’ll have watching your flock play too!
7. Treat Them
Finally, every pet loves a good treat, and chickens are no different. Spoil your flock with tasty treats (in moderation, of course) to keep them happy and coming back for more! You can also use treats when training your chickens to reward them for good behavior.
To all the caring keepers out there who already do all or some of these things, we’re proud of you! If you’re slacking in any of these departments, just remember, a happy chicken = a happy keeper. Do your best to help them live their best lives and you’ll surely see the difference.