Over the past decade, chickens have become more popular as not only a source of eggs for the home, but also as household pets. All chickens belong to the species – Gallus gallus. There are hundreds of chicken breeds around the world, but only 65 breeds are recognized by the American Poultry Association. The more commonly kept breeds are: Australorp, Brahma, Leghorn, Orpington, Plymouth rock, Rhode Island, Silkie, Sussex and Wyandotte. Chickens are happy, playful, friendly little pets, because in the right environment, they can be very enjoyable both in an outdoor or indoor environment. Like all small pets, chickens need the right food, protection from predators, and room to move around. Since chickens prefer a roost or perch for resting or sleeping, it is recommended to provide them with a perch that is firm, stable and elevated from the ground.
Diet
There are several commercial chicken foods available at pet stores, feed and seed stores, or online stores. Baby chicks should be on a starter and growing ration for the first 20 weeks of life. Adult chickens need to be on a maintenance ration. Chickens need diets made for their extra protein and calcium needs. Layer diets are typically 16% protein and 3.5-5% calcium. Fresh water should be available at all times. Chickens can get dehydrated quickly. Clean food and water bowls are a must.
Many chickens love fresh produce such as corn, tomatoes, or leafy greens. Leafy greens such as lettuces (Not Iceberg), spinach, kale, and escarole make good supplements to a pelleted ration and can be offered regularly. Other vegetables may also be offered but should not exceed 5% of the daily diet. Limit fruits, scratch, and dried meal worms to small amounts, as they are not nutritionally balanced foods. DO NOT feed your chickens highly salted foods, chocolate, avocados, alcohol, or caffeine, as these foods can make your bird very ill.
Chicken feed should be stored in a cool, dry place. Make sure the container is protected from insects and rodents. The diet you purchase must be in its original bag/container and not taken from the food container. Don’t Feed medicated food to your chicken(s) unless directed to do so by an avian veterinarian. The use of medicated foods can produce antibiotic and/or anti-protozoal drug resistance if used improperly.
Outdoor Chicken
Building a chicken coop requires planning, space, and the right materials. There are several online resources for layouts and building plans for a chicken coop. These 2 sources would be good starting places: www.thehappychickencoop.com and www.mypetchicken.com are great sites. The materials you use should be non-toxic and durable to withstand the types of weather in your locality. Protection from predators (dogs, cats, raccoons, hawks, coyotes, and foxes) is critical. Food and water should be placed on the ground to prevent consumption or contamination by invading insects and/or rodents. Fresh water should be provided daily. Food and water bowls should be washed daily.
Chickens and roosters like to graze and eat food on the ground, so be sure to keep them away from chemicals, fertilizers and small, shiny metal objects.
If you plan to have a rooster with your flock, be sure to check with your local ordinances regarding rooster ownership. If roosters are allowed, you generally only need 1 rooster for every 8-10 chickens. Roosters are fun to watch but can be very noisy. More than one rooster on property will often cause territorial battles.
Taking care of your health
All chickens should be vaccinated against Marek’s Disease Virus on Day 1. A fecal analysis to check for intestinal parasites is recommended annually. The bottom of your chicken’s feet should be checked weekly to monthly to look for pressure sores or swelling. It is recommended to pick up each chicken or rooster weekly to check their feathers for mites or feather lice and their skin for cuts and scrapes.
Since chickens will defecate every 20-40 minutes, it is best to confine your indoor chicken(s) to areas with floors that are stain-free and easy to clean. Providing your chicken with a nest or a soft perch for sleeping is highly recommended. Giving your chicken(s) outside time each day in a protected space is very beneficial for their health, exercise, and exposure to UV light. Giving 1-2 hours a day would be the best time outside. As with all pets, care must be taken in temperatures above 90º and below 32º.
At the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital of Louisiana, Dr. Leslie Pence and Gregory Rich are skilled in poultry health, diseases and if necessary, surgery. For emergencies and appointments, call 504-455-6386.
