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Can Goats Eat Cauliflower

By MrAnimal Farm

goats grazing in field

Whether you have extra cauliflower from your garden or a big sale at the grocery store you might want to know if you can share it with your goats. Before you just go take it out to your herd you’ll want to ask yourself, can goats eat cauliflower?

Goats cannot eat just anything. There are certain foods that are toxic to them and other foods that while not toxic are not good to feed to them

Continue on to find out all the details about feeding cauliflower to your goats.

goats grazing in field

Can Goats Eat Cauliflower

Yes, goats can eat cauliflower. In fact goats can eat raw, cooked, roasted and all parts of the cauliflower plant.

While goats can eat cauliflower without any issues, it is important to know that it should be a small part of their diet and fed only as a treat. In addition to the fact that all treats should only be fed in a 10 to 20% of the daily diet anyways, cauliflower contains glucosinolates which can cause goats some issues when eaten in excess.

In fact, all plants in the brassica family ( such as broccoli) contain these glucocinolates.

It has been shown that these glucosinolates when not fed in moderation can cause issues in livestock. Some of these issues include  goiters, GI upset, decreased appetite as well as stunted growth in addition to others issues.

Despite these potential issues, cauliflower is still a healthy and nutritious treat to feed your goats with many benefits.

Cauliflower is packed with a variety of different nutrients including vitamin c, vitamin k, iron, magnesium, potassium, and fiber (source). Is nutrients can provide a variety of health benefits including increased immune system function, improved digestive health, decreased inflammation, and even reduced risk of cancer.

In addition to these very nutrients, cauliflower is actually also high in water content. Which means that it can help to keep your goats hydrated. This is great to know especially in hot summers or when your goats are not wanting to drink as much water as they should.

Can Goats Eat Raw Cauliflower

Yes, goats can eat raw cauliflower. In fact, goats love to crunch on their treats and so raw cauliflower can be a good choice to feed them.

Just make sure if feeding raw cauliflower, that you make the pieces small enough that your goats do not choke on them.

Can Goats Eat Roasted Cauliflower?

Yes goats can eat roasted cauliflower. In fact goats can eat any type of cooked cauliflower including steamed, boiled, or baked.

One thing to remember though, is it if you’re cooking the cauliflower you do not want to include any type of seasonings or other additives.

Can Goats Eat Cauliflower Plants?

Yes, goats can also eat cauliflower plants and leaves. So, if you have leftovers in your garden or if you’re sneaky ghost just break into your garden it’s okay if they get a hold of your cauliflower.

Additionally, there’s no need to waste the leaves are stems on the cauliflower that you buy from the store, as you can feed this to your goats.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

How to Feed Your Goats Cauliflower

First, you want to make sure that your cauliflower is fresh ripe and doesn’t have any mold or rot on it. Once you know that the cauliflower is okay to eat, you can start getting it prepared for your goats.

If you are feeding raw cauliflower, all you need to do is wash the cauliflower with water and then chop it up. Do make sure that you make the pieces of cauliflower small enough that the goats can shoot them without choking on them.

It is important to note that ghosts can be overzealous when eating treats so air on the side of smaller rather than larger. Especially until you know how your goats are going to react.

If you are feeding some version of cooked cauliflower then you again want to start by washing it. Once a cauliflower is washed you can go ahead and cook it in the manner that you want such as steaming, boiling, baking or roasting.

Been feeding cooked cauliflower, again, you want to make sure that the pieces are small enough that your goats don’t choke. However cooked cauliflower is a lot softer than raw cauliflower and is less of a choking hazard.

as always, make sure to start with just a small amount of cauliflower to see how your goats do with it. Once you know that they both like the cauliflower and do well eating it you can start to feed them a little more over time. Again, it should only be fed as a treat not as a diet replacement.

FAQ

What vegetables can goats not eat?

There are some vegetables that goats cannot eat like kale. Additionally, there are many vegetable plants that goats can’t eat while they can eat the flesh or fruit of those vegetables like tomatoes.

What vegetables can goat’s eat?

Goats can and will eat an entire variety of different vegetables. They enjoy lots of different vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, lettuce and more.

If you are feeding vegetables to your goats as treats it’s good to try to feed them a mix of different kinds so they get a variety of textures and nutrients added to their diet.

Overtime and with some trial and you will inevitably figure out which vegetables your goats like the best.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Goats Eat Cantaloupe

By MrAnimal Farm

goat eating grass

Goats love to get special treats. In the summer it can help keep your goats hydrated to give them treats that have a high water content. One such food is a Cantaloupe. So, can goats eat cantaloupe?

An old fallacy if it go to have iron stomachs and can eat anything and everything. Quite frankly this is not true. You must be careful the only feed your goats treats that are safe for them to eat.

Keep reading to find out all the ins and outs of feeding cantaloupe to your goats.

Can Goats Eat Cantaloupe

Yes, goats can eat cantaloupe. In fact they can eat cantaloupe rinds seeds and plants without any issues.

Cantaloupe is a healthy and hydrating tree to give your goats. Like other treats such as watermelon, bananas, pineapple, cantaloupe should only be fed in moderation.

Cantaloupe is high in sugar like most other fruits and so you want to make sure you don’t overfeed it to your herd.

This fruit is particularly high and several different nutrients that are very beneficial for your goats. In cantaloupe you will find nutrients such as beta carotene, vitamin c, folate, fiber, and potassium. (Source)

These nutrients play a variety of important roles such as eye health, immune system support and health, electrolyte balance, and even prevention of certain cancers.

Can Goats Eat Cantaloupe Rinds?

Yes, good can eat cantaloupe rinds. Plain rinds are not their favorite things. As they are kind of tough and bland.

However, it is perfectly safe for them to eat the rind. And you can certainly leave rind on with some of the flesh and they will Chow down.

Can Goats Eat Cantaloupe Seeds?

Yes, those can also eat cantaloupe seeds. If you are feeding cantaloupe to your goats there is no need to remove the seeds.

Can Goats Eat Cantaloupe Plants/Vines/Leaves?

Yes, goats can eat cantaloupe plants Vines and leaves. These are not the most tasty parts of the plant of course. And they do not have the majority of the nutrition.

However, if you are growing your own cantaloupe in your garden and your goats get into the garden and eat the plants that is totally safe. 

Additionally, it’s good to use your goats to clean your garden out. And so if you have cantaloupe plants left in your garden at the end of the season it’s totally fine to let your goats go in and graze.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

How to Feed Your Goats Cantaloupe

Feeding your goats cantaloupe is done just like you would do most other goat treats. The first thing you want to do is make sure that your cantaloupe is right and free of mold or other potential issues.

Once you’ve identified that you have a fresh and ripe cantaloupe, you can prepare it to feed it to your goats. You can include the rind and seeds when feeding to your goats so there’s no need to scrape the seeds out or separate the flesh of the fruit from the rind.

You will want to make sure that you cut the cantaloupe carefully into bite-size trunks so that the goats do not try to bite off more than they can chew. Go ahead and make sure to also wash the rind with some water to be sure to wipe off any pesticides.

Once you have washed and chopped your cantaloupe into bite-sized chunks you can take it out to your goats to feed to them. You can either put the cantaloupe into a feed bucket or you can feed them this treat by hand.

when feeding the cantaloupe to your goats and sure that they are not having trouble chewing the size chunks you have made. If they seem too big you want to cut them into smaller pieces.

As with and any other treat that you feed to your goats, you want to make sure that you feed this in moderation. It’s generally accepted that treats should make up no more than 10 to 20% of your goats overall diet.

FAQ

What fruits are healthy for goats?

There are whole variety of fruits that are healthy for goats to eat. Whenever feeding any fruits keep in mind that most do have a high sugar content so they should be a low percentage of your goats overall diet.

However, when fed in moderation, fruits can make a great healthy treat to include in your goat’s diet. Goats can eat many fruits such as apples, bananas, pineapple, and a variety of melons.

What fruits can goats not eat?

Most fruits are actually safer goats to eat. Some though you need to be more cautious with than others.

For example, citrus can affect their rumen more than some other fruits so should be fed sparingly. Additionally, the leaves and plants of some fruit such as cherries are poisonous to goats. Although the cherry fruit itself is not.

Do goats eat melons?

Yes goats can and do eat melons such as watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew. These melons are a great hydrating and vitamin rich snack to provide your herd.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Goats Eat Tomatoes

By MrAnimal Farm

tan goat in pasture with tall weeds

Tomatoes are a common plant that many people grow in their gardens. And, they are pretty easy to grow. Whether you have excess tomatoes or, perhaps your goats broke into your garden, you may find yourself wondering can goats eat tomatoes?

After all, it’s been a joke for decades that goats will eat anything. You probably even remember cartoons that show goats eating parts of clothes. This couldn’t be further from the truth though as goats, like most mammals, don’t actually have an iron stomach that can tolerate poisonous or foreign substances.

Keep reading for all the ins and outs about safely feeding tomatoes to your goats.

tan goat in pasture with tall weeds

Can Goats Eat Tomatoes 

Yes, goats can eat ripe tomatoes, but it shouldn’t make up a large percentage of their diet. Goats should not eat unripe tomatoes or any part of the tomato plant as it can be toxic.

Just like with other treats like celery, asparagus and broccoli, tomatoes should be given in moderation. But ripe tomatoes in moderation can provide a healthy and delicious snack that your goats will enjoy.

Can Goats Eat Tomato Plants? 

No, the tomato plant itself should not be consumed by your goat. In fact, the tomato plant is even considered to be toxic to humans. You will even find on the ASPCA’s website that these plants can affect other mammals due to the fact that they are part of the nightshade family and produce solanine.

Solanine is an alkaloid that can cause serious damage to a goat’s body. The only reason the ripened fruit is edible is because its solanine level greatly reduces as it becomes ripe. Even humans can’t take eating a large portion of a tomato plant without facing issues such as an upset stomach and heart damage.

If you are growing tomato plants, be sure to keep them far away from your goat enclosure. If you let your goat wander, place your tomatoes inside of a fence that your goat can’t access. The best way to ensure that your goat isn’t eating something that will make them sick is by putting in preventive measures.

Goats can’t recognize that tomato plants are toxic on their own and will likely take a bite if given the chance.

Can Goats Eat Tomato Flowers? 

No, goats cannot eat tomato flowers. The flowers are not safe to eat as they still contain toxins.

Can Goats Eat Tomato Vines? 

No, goats cannot eat tomato vines. The vines contain solanine as well and should be avoided.

Can Goats Eat Tomato Leaves? 

No, goats cannot eat tomato leaves. Even the tomato leaves themselves are dangerous.

Signs Your Goat Has Eaten Tomato Plants? 

If you suspect your goat has consumed a tomato plant, then there are several signs that you should watch out for.

  • Fever
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargic behavior
  • Vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Trouble breathing
  • Seizing
  • Coma
  • Death in rare cases

If you suspect your goat has eaten a tomato plant, don’t panic. Check the plant to see how much they have consumed. If they have only plucked a couple of leaves, they should be fine, but still keep a close eye on them.

Do keep in mind that veterinary costs for a house call, much less saving a goat’s life from poisoning, can be quite costly. The best medicine is always prevention.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

How to Help Your Goat If they Eat a Tomato Plant 

If you have found that your goat has consumed a tomato plant. Try to seek out veterinary help if possible. If you can’t get in touch with a vet, then there are quite a few steps you can take to try and help your goat through the process of expelling the toxins.

  • Immediately check your goat’s mouth for any remaining plant. If you see some, remove it.
  • Keep water available.
  • If possible, get your goat to a safe area to rest. This is extremely important if bad weather is approaching or it’s getting dark.
  • You can try giving your goat one teaspoon of baking soda every hour to try and dilute the toxins in their body.

Keep in mind that your goat is likely stressed, and you will need to be cautious when handling them, especially when checking their mouth. Even a gentle animals can become hostile when they are in pain or not feeling well. Be sure to wear thick gloves and keep a close watch on the animal’s temperament while interacting with them. Never let small children interact with a sick or injured animal.

How to Feed Your Goats Tomatoes 

Ripe tomatoes, like any other treat, should not make up more than 20% of your goat’s diet at any point in time. There are a variety of ways you can feed a goat Tomatoes depending on the size.

You can blend it up into a sauce, cut it up into small pieces, or, if you are dealing with a smaller tomato, give it to them whole. Just be sure to wash it off to get rid of pesticides.

Tomatoes do contain several beneficial vitamins like folate, Vitamin C, and potassium. Potassium is good for tissue, folate helps with red blood cell formation, and Vitamin C helps with collagen and tissue repair. When given the correct amount of treats like tomatoes, you can actually help your goat live a healthier life.

If this is the first time you have ever fed your goat tomatoes, then be sure to monitor them for any adverse effects. Once you know your goats handle the tomatoes well, you can feed as a regular treat.

FAQ 

Can goats eat cherry tomatoes? 

Yes, as long as the cherry tomatoes are ripe, your goat can eat them.

Can goats eat grape tomatoes? 

Yes goats can eat grape tomatoes are safely as long as they are ripe.

Can goats eat tomato sauce? 

Yes, goats can eat tomato sauce, IF it is just mashed up tomatoes that you made yourself. Avoid tomato sauces your purchase from the store as they can have other ingredients mixed in like high amounts of sugar that aren’t healthy for your goat.

What vegetables can goats not eat?

The biggest thing you need to avoid is feeding your goat unripe fruits and veggies. Raw potatoes can also cause an issue, as can the popular superfood kale. Even avocados shouldn’t be given to goats. When in doubt, do some research to ensure that you are feeding your goat a safe treat.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Goats Eat Celery

By MrAnimal Farm

young goat eating grass

Looking for a fun and easy snack for your goats? There are so many to choose from. You might find yourself thinking can goats eat celery? They might enjoy it as a crunchy snack.

As an owner, it’s up to you to be aware of what foods your goats can and can’t consume. Celery has long been known as a healthy food for humans, so it’s no surprise that you may want to feed it to your four-legged friend. Before doing so though you need to know just how good or bad celery is for your goat.

Keep on reading to find out all the details on feeding your goats celery in a safe way.

young goat eating grass

Can Goats Eat Celery 

Yes, goats can eat celery as a treat. In fact, your goat can eat every part of the celery plant without having any ill effects occur, making it one of the safer plants to feed them out there.

You can choose to let them eat the stalks or leafy top, either way nothing bad will happen. Just keep in mind that celery doesn’t give them all the nutrients they need.

To keep them healthy, you will need to limit just how much celery they are taking in their bodies. Even healthy vegetables can cause problems when given in large doses.

How to Feed Your Goats Celery 

You should feed your goat no more than 20% of their diet in treats and this includes celery.   

Before you go throwing in a whole stalk though, you’re going to want to rinse the plant off as it’s likely that pesticides were used in growing it. Once you have thoroughly washed the celery off, begin cutting it up into small bite-sized chunks for your goat to snack on.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

If you have bought celery sticks, you may still want to cut them up depending on how long they are to avoid any choking potential. Goats can get overzealous when eating, which can lead to choking. The best prevention is to prepare their food in a safe manner, especially if it’s a treat they get excited over.

You should also look out for any signs of mold or rotting on the celery. Giving your goat bad food can cause them to get sick and even lead to a costly vet bill once everything is said and done.

Celery contains several vitamins that are good for your goat (source: WebMD). Celery has Vitamin A, which helps to keep the immune system up and running.

It also contains Vitamin C, which helps with tissue repair, and Vitamin K, a vitamin that helps the blood to clot when there is an injury. You will also find folate in celery which helps with the formation of red blood cells, and potassium which helps with tissue health.

Celery is also rich in water but does have a large amount of sodium in comparison to other vegetables. This makes it all the more important to sparingly feed this treat to your goat.

If a goat happens to eat too much celery, they will likely end up with an upset stomach. If they continue to eat too much of the plant, then they can have a deficiency in the nutrients they need as celery isn’t a natural food for goats. While it is rich in fiber, it’s not going to replace their hay.

 As with any food, if this is your first time giving your goat celery, monitor them closely and start with a small portion. Once your goat is cleared and decides they like the snack, you can begin giving them larger portions to snack on.

FAQ 

What vegetables can goats not eat? 

Goats should avoid vegetables that aren’t ripe like tomatoes as they have toxins. You will also want to avoid kale, which is another poisonous plant, even though you might have heard about how good it is for humans.

If you are going to feed your goat a new treat, do some research or check with a vet before giving it to them. There is both a large list of foods that goats can and can’t have.

Can goats eat celery leaves? 

Yes, the leaves of the celery plant are perfectly safe for your goat to consume. Even if your goat went into your garden and ate your celery up, you wouldn’t have much to worry about other than an upset stomach that they will naturally get from unbalancing their regular diet.

Can goats eat celery juice? 

Yes, goats can eat celery juice. If you blend up the celery yourself, then giving the juice to your goat shouldn’t be a problem. You should avoid giving them store-bought celery juice though, as there is a high chance that other ingredients that may be harmful to your goat have been added into the drink to better flavor or preserve it.

Can Goats Eat Celery sticks?

Yes, your goat can eat chopped-up celery sticks. Just make sure you wash them off before giving them the treat. If you have bought pre-prepped celery sticks at the store, you may still want to do a bit of trimming to make them bite-sized and wash them off just to ensure that they are healthy for your goat to consume.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Goats Eat Watermelon

By MrAnimal Farm

five goats eating tall weeds

If you have goats and are looking for a good summer treat for them, you might consider feeding them some watermelon. But, can goats eat watermelon safely?

It’s no secret that watermelons aren’t a part of a goat’s natural diet. But they are a delicious and refreshing summer treat. If you have a bit of watermelon during a hot summer day, then you may be wondering if it’s safe to share a bit with your goat.

Keep reading to find out all the details about feeding your goats watermelon.

goats eating tall weeds

Can Goats Eat Watermelon 

Yes, goats can eat watermelon. In fact, goats can eat all parts of the watermelon: flesh, rind, seeds, vine and leaves. It makes a wonderful and hydrating treat for your goats. Do be sure not to overfeed it though, as it is a fruit with a high sugar content.

Watermelon is not a fruit that will harm your goat in any way. You should still limit how much watermelon they eat though, as it should never make up the largest part of their diet. This is simply due to the sugar content as well as wanting your goats to keep a well balanced diet.

You may even be surprised to learn that some goat owners actually use watermelons to help keep their goats better hydrated during the summer months. This is because around 90% of a watermelon is made up of water.

Since the fruit still has a treat-like taste though, you can tempt goats into consuming it which will keep their bodies full of water on hot days. Just make sure that you keep their water bowls full as well, just to ensure they have access to all the water they need.

Can Goats Eat Watermelon Rind? 

Yes, goats can eat watermelon rind. The rind is the outer shell of the watermelon and it’s surprisingly rich in nutrients. Rind is a great treat for your goat but some owners have pointed out that their goat will just pluck off the flesh and leave the rind alone.

If you are worried about the toughness of the rind, your goat should be able to chew through it with ease. Just make sure to give them smaller chunks so that they don’t try to down it all at once.

Keep in mind that the rind likely has pesticides sprayed on it as it’s the outer protective shell of the fruit. Be sure to thoroughly wash it off before letting your goat consume it. The best way to encourage them to eat the rind is by leaving the flesh on it and letting them naturally take some extra bites.

Can Goats Eat Watermelon Vines? 

Yes, unlike some other plants (like tomatoes and potatoes), the watermelon vine is completely safe to eat. In fact, they may even enjoy munching on them.

Like the rind, the vine is likely to have pesticides so you will want to wash them off. If your goat ends up loving watermelon vines, then the safest thing to do would be to grow some melons of your own.

If your goat accidentally breaks into your watermelon patch then there isn’t much to worry about aside from an upset stomach from consuming too much of a treat. 

Can Goats Eat Watermelon Seeds? 

Yes, goats can eat watermelon seeds. You don’t need to scoop all of the seeds out of the watermelon’s flesh before giving them to your goat.

Feel free to give your goat chopped-up watermelon as is, no need to waste your time trying to get every little seed out. Keep in mind that watermelon seeds aren’t going to help your goat keep hydrated or even be an incredibly nutritious snack.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

How to Feed Your Goats Watermelon 

While you may just want to place a watermelon down and let your goat go to town, you should chop up the fruit and portion it. Be sure to thoroughly wash off the outer layer of the watermelon and then begin cutting it up with a clean knife.

Bite-sized chunks are best and if your goat is picky, then you can even go the extra mile and just make chunks of the flesh.

While your goat isn’t likely to choke themselves on large chunks, some animals do get overzealous while eating and a watermelon is a larger plant in general. Even some of the mini watermelons can be a choking hazard especially if you are feeding it to a kid.

You should make sure that the watermelon you have chosen is ripe and doesn’t have any signs of rot or mold. If you see anything that makes you question whether the watermelon may have gone bad or not, you probably shouldn’t feed it to your goat. 

Try not to feed your goat any more than 20% of its diet in watermelon. No matter how healthy this fruit may seem, it should never become a huge part of your goat’s diet. It will not provide their bodies with the nutrients they need and will eventually lead to an upset stomach and a deficiency in vitamins.

Watermelons, in general, are a healthy treat and has fiber in it, a vitamin that should make up a large portion of a goat’s diet. There is also Vitamin A that can help with the immune system and Vitamin C that helps with tissue repair.

Potassium is also present, which can help with the operation of tissues in your goat’s body. These benefits can all stack on top of the fact that the watermelon can help keep your goat hydrated, as mentioned above.

The flesh and vines aren’t going to be that stacked with nutrients, especially due to the flesh’s high water content but the rind is a great snack if your goat will eat it. If this is your first time feeding your goat watermelon, then be sure to observe them.

It’s always best to start out feeding your goat a small amount of a new treat to see how they like it before giving them a large portion.

FAQ 

How much watermelon do goats eat? 

Try not to give your goat more than 20% of its daily diet in treats. Of course, if it’s an extremely hot day and watermelon can help keep your goat hydrated, there can be a small bit of wiggle room until you figure out how to get them to drink more water.

Can Goats Eat Watermelon candy?

No, you should not give your goat any watermelon candy. For starters, the watermelon flavoring used in many popular candies is artificial and the candies themselves are made of tons of ingredients that aren’t healthy for goats to consume. A candy can even cause a goat to get sick if it contains the wrong type of ingredients.

Even if it says it’s made with natural watermelon, check the label 99% of the time. It’s going to have a list of other ingredients mixed in.

Can goats eat other watermelon-flavored food?

Like with candy, you should never trust flavored foods. They tend to have a whole slew of added ingredients most of which aren’t healthy for your goats. This is especially true for watermelon flavored drinks which have high amounts of unhealthy ingredients like sugar and sodium.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Goats Eat Oranges

By MrAnimal Farm

black and tan goat in tall weeds

If you have goats, you may want to give them something a little extra as a treat now and then. Whether you are just looking for a sweet treat for your herd, or maybe you grew a large harvest of oranges on your own, you may wonder: can goats eat oranges?

Goats, like any other type of animals, have their typical diet and then they have other foods they can have as treats. However, they also have foods that can be dangerous as well. So, before you start handing out any non-typical goat foods to your herd you need to be sure they are safe to eat.

Below we go over everything you need to know about whether you should or should not feed your goat oranges.

black and tan goat in tall weeds

Can Goats Eat Oranges 

Yes, goats can eat oranges and orange peels. Oranges are a safe, healthy and nutritious treat for your goats.

You’re goats probably aren’t going to encounter oranges while grazing about unless you live somewhere nice and warm and have some of these citrus trees on your property. However, they are a nice treat to buy and share with your goats occasionally. Goats tend to really enjoy the sweet and juicy taste of the orange.

Like with any type of treat out there, you will need to limit consumption. Goats who have their diet thrown off will end up with an upset stomach.

Can Goats Eat Orange Seeds? 

Yes, goats can eat orange seeds. There is no reason for you to try and scoop the seeds out. They won’t harm your goat. 

Can Goats Eat Orange Peels? 

Yes, goats can eat orange peels. In fact, the orange peel actually contains a higher dose of Vitamin C than the flesh of the fruit does. Orange peels are the healthiest part of the Orange. If you can get your goat to chow down on them, it’s a huge plus.

As you can probably tell from the answers above, it’s safe to let your goat eat every part of an orange. Just remember that too much of a good thing will upset their stomach.

Can Goats Eat Orange Leaves? 

If your goat somehow manages to chow down on leaves from your orange tree, there is no need to worry. Unlike some other types of plants like potatoes, the orange tree is safe to consume and won’t place toxins inside of your goat’s body.

With that being said, the leaves aren’t the most nutritious thing that your goat could be eating, and their munching can damage your tree.

It’s best to keep your fruit trees, and your goats separate when possible. If you let them wander around, consider keeping a fence around your tree to discourage any midday snacking that might occur. Trust me, they will devour your fruit trees, we have a lot of experience with this!

How to Feed Your Goats Oranges 

If you would like to treat your goat to some oranges, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. For starters, while a goat can safely consume all parts of the orange, many fruits are sprayed with pesticides that are harmful to both humans and goats when they are ingested.

The best way to ensure that your goat isn’t taking in any toxins is to thoroughly wash the orange off. You should also make sure to remove any stickers that have been placed on the fruit and get off any sticky residue they leave behind.

Once you are done washing the fruit, you should cut it into slices to serve to your goat. While they can and will eat an orange whole, this is a choking hazard.

Dividing the orange into bite-sized chunks is also a good way to make your goat think that they are getting more treats.

Oranges should never make up more than 20% of your goat’s diet, and you need to be careful as they are quite high in sugar. You may actually want to try feeding your goat a bit less as citrus fruits are known for easily upsetting a goat’s stomach.

Oranges contain a large boost of vitamins that can help keep your goat healthy when fed in an appropriate amount. Vitamin A is present, which helps boost the immune system, and so is Vitamin E, which helps increase the health of your goat’s body. Vitamin C is what oranges are best known for and can help remove free radicals from your goat’s body as it’s actually an antioxidant.

Oranges also have Fiber and Folate Acids that helps cells to divide. Calcium is also present, which can help with your goat’s bone health. Finally, oranges have Potassium, which helps with heart and muscle functions.

Keep in mind that the orange peel has the highest concentration of vitamins and if you can get your goat to snack on them, it is a great way to keep them healthy.

If it’s your first time feeding your goat an orange, give them a small piece and monitor them closely. Once you verify that your goat isn’t having an adverse reaction to the fruit, feel free to start feeding them more.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

FAQ 

Can goats eat orange trees? 

Yes, goats can eat orange trees. If a goat somehow decides to start munching on the bark of a tree, they should be ok. Of course, this isn’t preferable due to the fact that they can easily kill a tree off if left to eating it too long.

If they are just eating the leaves or plucking off oranges, they should be fine. You just want to ensure that they aren’t eating enough to upset their stomach. Fencing is a great way to keep goats out of your produce.

Can goats have orange juice? 

If you make the orange juice yourself, everything should be fine. Steer clear of any store-bought juices as even the organic ones usually have preservatives or extra sugar added in. These ingredients aren’t made for goat consumption and should be avoided at all costs.

You also will want to be careful with the amount of juice they ingest as it can be easy to lose track of how much sugar they are taking in.

Can goats eat mandarin oranges?

Yes, if you bought the oranges yourself and washed them off, it should be fine. Avoid canned mandarin oranges, though, as these will have a high amount of sugar and will likely have harmful preservatives that your goat shouldn’t ingest. 

You also may still want to slice small oranges up, to ensure there is no choking risk.

What fruits can goats eat?

Goats can actually eat a large range of fruits without worry. Some fruits goats can are are:

Blueberries

Pineapple

Watermelon

You do need to make sure to wash them off and be careful of the amount of fruit you are feeding them, especially if they are high in sugar. Avoid giving your goat fruits that aren’t ripe, especially if you are giving them something like a Tomato that has toxins in it until it fully ripens.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Goats Eat Potatoes?

By MrAnimal Farm

goats eating long weeds

Potatoes are known for being a healthy dish when eaten in moderation by humans. In fact, the potato is one of the most common vegetables to be made into human snack food. Goats, with their ravenous hunger, would surely enjoy potatoes too right? But can goats eat potatoes safely?

As with many food items, you can’t just start feeding your goat potatoes without a bit of research to ensure they are safe and how to prepare them. Keep reading to find out all you need to know about goats and potatoes.

goats eating long weeds

Can Goats Eat Potatoes 

Yes, goats can safely eat potatoes as long as you cook them first. While they are able to stand a small bit of raw potato, this isn’t recommended as it can easily upset their stomach.

This means that your goat can enjoy a serving of plain mashed potatoes without a problem. You should also never feed your goat a green potato as they contain Solanine, a toxin.

Can Goats Eat Potato Plants? 

No, goats cannot eat potato plants. Potato plants are toxic and should never be in an area where your goat can reach them. If you grow potatoes make sure they are in a safe or fenced-in area. Goats can be sneaky eaters and will munch down on the plants if they are not kept out.

If you suspect that your goat has gotten into your potato plants monitor them closely for toxicity signs and get into contact with your local vet.

Can Goats Eat Potato Leaves? 

No, goats cannot eat potato leaves. Potato leaves (just like the rest of the plant) are toxic to goats. Goats can’t tell that potato leaves are toxic, and if they have access to a garden with potato leaves, there is a decent chance that they will eventually make their way over to them.

Can Goats Eat Potato Skins or Peels? 

Goats can eat potato skins and peels if the skins are cooked. There’s no guarantee that a goat will want to eat cooked potato peels that don’t contain the fleshy part of the vegetable, so it may not be easy to feed them any leftover scraps.

We have found these to be hit or miss with our herd. But it’s always worth a try to get your goats an extra treat.

Signs Your Goat Has Eaten Potato Plants? 

If your goat has gotten into a potato plant, then there are probably going to be some signs of poisoning these are:

  • Lethargic Behavior
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Confusion
  • Breathing issues
  • Seizure
  • Coma
  • Death in rare cases

If you suspect your goat has consumed a potato plant, contact your vet immediately. Be sure to keep them well hydrated, especially if they are vomiting, and provide a quiet place for them to rest.

It’s best to choose a place that is warm, dry, and where they can easily reach the water. If they aren’t able to move around easily, use a bowl to give them easy and constant access to a water source. You should also check their mouths and remove any leftover parts of the plants that you see.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

How to Feed Your Goats Potatoes 

If you want to feed your goat potatoes, you will want to start by thoroughly washing off the vegetable to ensure that there are no pesticides left over. Once it’s washed, you will want to cook the potato by either baking or boiling it until it is no longer raw. You can choose to leave the peel on or remove it depending on the preference of your goat.

 If you cook the potato whole, make sure to chop it up into small bite-sized chunks before serving it to your goat to avoid a choking hazard. Make sure to avoid giving your goat any cooked potato dishes that you’ve made for your family unless they are butter and salt-free. You will also want to be careful to ensure that you aren’t using canned potatoes or store-bought potatoes as a treat, as they usually contain extra ingredients.

Potatoes should never make up more than 20% of your goat’s diet. Potatoes contain several vitamins that can be beneficial to your goat’s body.

Vitamin C is present, which can help to boosts your goat’s immune system. Vitamin B6 is a lesser-known vitamin that is a pyridoxine. It helps with metabolism and the creation of red blood cells. Potassium is also present, which helps a goat’s tissues, and potatoes also contain fiber.

If this is your first time feeding your goats, give them a small bit of cooked potato and monitor them closely. Once you verify that it’s safe, you can continue to feed your goat more cooked potatoes.

FAQ 

What should goats not eat? 

Goats should not eat any plants that make Solaine, like potato and tomato plants. You should also avoid feeding your goat any crops that aren’t ripe, as they are likely to contain toxins or make your goat sick. 

Keep in mind that goats are herbivores and shouldn’t be eating anything outside of the plant family. Meats and sweets should be avoided. Before feeding your goat any new food, be sure to ask a vet or do research to verify that it is safe.

What vegetables can goats eat? 

Goats can eat several different types of vegetables like celery, corn, pumpkin, broccoli, asparagus, squash, and lettuce. Make sure that these veggies are always ripe, as raw vegetables can hurt your goat and upset their stomach.

Can goats eat mashed potatoes? 

Yes, as long as you make the mashed potatoes yourself and don’t add in any additional ingredients. Canned mashed potatoes should be avoided as they often contain butter and other extra ingredients that can be harmful to goats. You may also notice that there is a high amount of salt present in many store-bought mashed potato dishes.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Goats Eat Asparagus?

By MrAnimal Farm

Despite their reputation for having iron stomachs there are plenty of food that you need to avoid feeding your goat. While vegetables and fruit may seem like a safe choice to feed your goat, not all of them are going to be safe. So what about plants that are known for being extremely healthy for humans, like asparagus? Can goats eat asparagus, or will it end up making them sick?

Goats are happy to eat any plant that they can get their mouths around. It’s not surprising that they will gleefully accept any type of treat you are trying to give them. So keep reading to see if asparagus is something your goats can handle.

two goats eating food our of hands

Can Goats Eat Asparagus 

Yes, goats can eat asparagus. It can be a nutritional treat when given in small amounts. In fact, if you find that your goat has made their way into your garden and eaten your asparagus crops, there shouldn’t be anything to worry about.

Remember that while it isn’t harmful in small amounts, giving a goat too much of any food outside of their regular diet will cause an upset stomach.

As with other veggie treats like celery, broccoli and lettuce, you should feed asparagus in moderation. Always measure out the treats that you are giving your goat each day to ensure that they don’t exceed 20% of their diet.

Can Goats Eat Asparagus Leaves 

Yes, goats can eat asparagus leaves. In fact, goats can eat the whole asparagus plant. It does seem a bit common for goats to not enjoy eating this part as much as the main plant. Your mileage may vary when trying to figure out which part of the asparagus is your goat’s favorite.

Can Goats Eat Canned Asparagus 

Goats should not eat canned asparagus. You should avoid feeding your goat anything you buy from the grocery store in a can. If you look on the nutritional label, you will likely see salt, sugar, or preservatives listed.

These are harmful to goats and should be avoided at all costs. Even the cans that say all organic may use preservatives, so it may be best to avoid using canned vegetables as treats altogether.

Can Goats Eat Frozen Asparagus 

Goats can eat frozen asparagus, if it doesn’t have other added ingredients. You should be careful when feeding your goats any food you buy from the grocery store that isn’t fresh. Preservatives or salt are often added into frozen dishes, so you need to check the ingredients label before thawing the asparagus out and giving it to your goat.

Make sure to properly warm up the asparagus if it’s safe to share with your goat. They likely won’t appreciate biting into a partially frozen snack.

If you freeze your own asparagus, double check to make sure there is no freezer burn and that the vegetable is still good to eat.

Can Goats Eat Grilled Asparagus 

Goats can eat grilled asparagus if it doesn’t have other ingredients added to it. If you have grilled the asparagus yourself and haven’t added in any seasoning, including salt, then it should be safe to give to your goat.

You will also want to ensure that the cooking surface you are grilling on doesn’t have any residual charcoal that is going to cling to the asparagus. Don’t be surprised if they aren’t too keen on the taste, though. After all, grilled veggies aren’t natural parts of their diet.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

How to Feed Your Goats Asparagus 

Before feeding your goat any asparagus, there are some rules that you need to know. For starters, never give your goat a vegetable that you haven’t personally grown without washing it off first. This ensures that all the harmful pesticides are washed off and don’t make their way into your goat’s body.

Next, you should ensure that you don’t ever feed your goat more than 20% of their diet in treats.

You may want to cut the asparagus up into bite-size chunks depending on the stalks size. This ensures that your goat won’t have a chance to choke if they get a little too excited about treat time. Having smaller chunks also encourages your goat to eat slower and may make them think that they are getting more food than they really are.

If you are planning to boil or grill the asparagus, make sure not to add anything else in. Seasoning as simple as salt will upset your goat’s stomach is not good for your goat’s body in general. Asparagus is not a vegetable that you need to cook to give to your goat, and they may not appreciate the change in taste.

Asparagus is a healthy treat rich in fiber, but it does not meet the everyday nutritional needs of a goat, and if fed in excess, will make them sick. Some benefit that they will receive from eating asparagus as a treat is a healthy boost of vitamins.

Asparagus has Vitamin A, which helps to boost the immune system, and Vitamin C, which helps protect cells from free radicals. This can be beneficial since goats spend a lot of time in the sun. Asparagus also has Vitamin K, which helps blood clot and which helps red blood cells form. 

As with any new food, make sure to observe your goat closely after giving them the first piece of asparagus. Once you verify that your goat doesn’t have a negative reaction to the asparagus, you can give them a larger portion.

FAQ 

Can baby goats eat asparagus?

Generally, you should avoid giving a baby goat any type of treats until they are between 6 to 8 weeks old. Before this point, they are still developing teeth and getting milk from their mom. You should also be working on getting them onto a normal diet before trying to feed them treats.

Once you have your baby goat eating solid foods, you can slowly start to introduce treats to their diet. Make sure to chop the asparagus up into tiny chunks to make sure there isn’t a choking risk, as baby goats may be even more excited over a treat than their parents.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Goats Eat Blueberries

By MrAnimal Farm

goats eating from a bowl

Blueberries are healthy fruit snacks, and if you are eating them, you may wonder about sharing a few with your goat. Goats love to eat all kinds of treats even ones that aren’t good for them. So, can goats eat blueberries?

.It’s important to know which foods you can safely feed your goat and which ones you should avoid. Keep reading to find out just how safe are blueberries for your goat to eat, and will they end up making them sick?

goats eating from a bowl

Can Goats Eat Blueberries 

Yes, goats can eat blueberries and, in fact, love them. Blueberries are a healthy treat full of antioxidants and a variety of vitamins such as Vitamin C, Vitamin K and Potassium. Fruits like blueberries have a lot of sugar, so ensure they don’t overeat them. 

Just like other treats goat should never eat more than 20% of its diet in blueberries. And you need to be cautious, just like with other fruits like watermelon, oranges and pineapple that they don’t get too much sugar.

Can Goats Eat Blueberry Plants or Bushes? 

Yes, goats can eat blueberry plants or bushes. Unlike some other plants in the fruit family like tomatoes, blueberry plants are safe to eat.

One year, our herd got into our berry patch and quickly plucked EVERY SINGLE berry off the bushes and then also promptly chopped the bushes themselves down.

If your goat happens to break into your blueberry patch, then you don’t need to worry too much as there isn’t anything that is going to poison your goat. The biggest worry you should have is if you sprayed pesticides on the plant, as you don’t want those toxins making their way into your goat’s body.

The plant part of the blueberry probably won’t be your goat’s favorite part, and they will be more interested in consuming the fruit itself.

Can Goats Eat Blueberry Leaves? 

Yes, goats can safely eat the leaves of a blueberry plant without worry. Like with the plant itself, though, you need to be cautious if you have used pesticides on your plants.

Make sure to wash any leaves off thoroughly before giving them to your goat. Like with the plant itself, your goats will likely prefer the fruit over chowing down on the leaves.

If you do use pesticides, make sure to use fencing to ensure that your goat doesn’t get into your plants. This can save you a trip to the vet if things take a turn for the worse after your goat treats itself to a plant buffet.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

How to Feed Your Goats Blueberries 

Blueberries will need to be thoroughly washed off before you give them to your goat. This is due to the fact that most plants you buy in the grocery store have had pesticides used on them.

Pesticides are toxic to goats, so you will want to avoid allowing them to ingest these chemicals at all costs. You will also want to be careful of what type of blueberries you are feeding to your goats.

Canned blueberries, as well as frozen ones, will likely contain extra ingredients like salt or preservatives that can further upset your goat’s stomach. In addition, there are tons of blueberry fillings that are made for making sweets like pies. These are not suitable for goat consumption and often contain chemicals that can lead you to visiting the vet.

If it’s made to be a sweet snack, then you shouldn’t give it to your goat. Goats aren’t able to identify which foods they should and shouldn’t eat. If you put something in front of them that looks tasty, they will eat it regardless of the eventual outcome.

This also extends to blueberry-filled products like pastries and items like muffins that contain blueberries. These also contain other ingredients that won’t agree with your goat’s body.

A blueberry pop-tart is extremely high in sugar, for example, and even humans shouldn’t be eating a large quantity of them or even trying to consume them every single day.

Watch out for any signs of an upset stomach and your goat getting diarrhea when you are feeding them berries. This is a good sign that they are eating too many or that the amount of sugar they are intaking is too much for their body to handle.

If you see either of these signs, make sure to dial back how many blueberries you are giving them and give them some time to let their tummy calm down before trying to feed them treats again. Generally, this isn’t a huge sign for concern. Just provide your goat with plenty of water to keep them hydrated and give them time to recover.

Luckily, Blueberries tend to be a small food, so you don’t need to worry about cutting them up unless you want to. This does help to get your goat to consume the blueberries slower and will make them think they are getting more treats than they actually are.

You should never surpass 20% of your goat’s diet in treats. If you feed them more and continue to do so each day, then they will have a nutrition deficiency which will eventually cause you to need to call a vet and most likely cut out treats altogether for quite some time. You also need to be cautious of blueberries and other high sugar fruits in particular.

In addition, blueberries have antioxidants. These help to stop free radicals from having reign in your goat’s bodies. In fact, blueberries are well known for the fact that they contain antioxidants, and it’s one of the reasons why they are always presented as a healthy fruit choice.

Keep in mind that several other treats like broccoli and spinach also contain antioxidants and can be a great treat.

Blueberries do contain a high amount of nutrients that can be beneficial to your goat when fed in proper portions. For starters, blueberries do contain fiber, which is a natural part of your goat’s normal diet.

Blueberries contain Vitamin C, which helps to boost the immune system, and Vitamin K, which helps your goat’s body to make proteins needed for causing blood clots. Potassium is also included in blueberries which is needed to help keep tissues in your goat’s body healthy.

Blueberries are also extremely low in fat, which means you don’t need to worry about having an overweight goat.

As with any new food that you are feeding your goat, you should be cautious. When you first give your goat any new treat, only give them a small portion and keep a close watch on them for any signs of sickness.

Once some time has passed without any type of negative reaction, you can begin to feed your goat more blueberries without worry. Also, keep in mind that blueberries should not be given to a goat below six weeks of age, as their diet is extremely limited.

FAQ 

What fruits can goats eat? 

Goats can eat a large variety of fruits like oranges, apples, bananas, and peaches and pineapples. Before feeding your goat any new treat, make sure to double-check with your vet and do your own research to ensure that they can eat it.

Some healthy food items like potatoes can be deadly when given to your goat before they are ripe and when they are still raw. Prior research is the best way to ensure that your goat is healthy.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Goats Eat Lettuce

By MrAnimal Farm

goats standing on hay bale

Goats are curious creatures that love nothing more than snacking the day away on any plants that they can find. You can quickly become best friends with your goat by feeding them and giving them treats on the side. So, you may wonder, can goats eat lettuce?

Many of the veggies and fruits that are healthy for us will seem like a great source of food for your goat as well. The truth is that goats have a very particular diet, whether they want to admit it or not, and a lot of foods don’t agree with their stomachs.

Keep reading to find out all the details on what lettuce goats can or cannot eat.

goat standing on hay bale

Can Goats Eat Lettuce 

Yes, goats can eat lettuce without you having to worry. In fact, there are several different types of lettuce out there that you can choose from as a treat for your goat. Just remember that despite lettuce’s healthy nature, you should never feed your goat more than 20% of its diet in lettuce.

Lettuce has a variety of different nutrients including fiber, water and several vitamins that help them maintain a healthy diet. You can feed lettuce to your goats as a treat on it’s own, or you can mix it with other vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, celery or tomatoes for a more well-rounded treat.

Can Goats Eat Iceburg Lettuce? 

Yes, Iceberg lettuce is perfectly safe for you to feed to your goat. Sadly, it is made up of a high percentage of water, so it’s not going to be as nutritious as some other types of Lettuce.

This shouldn’t deter you from sharing some with your goat, though. This type of lettuce may be good for giving your goat a small boost in hydration, though.

Can Goats Eat Romaine Lettuce? 

Yes, goats can eat romaine lettuce. Romaine lettuce is actually considered by many to be the healthiest type of lettuce out there. This is because it has the highest nutritional value out of the other types of lettuce you will encounter.

So, this lettuce variety would be a top choice to give to your goats.

Can Goats Eat Bibb Lettuce? 

Yes, goats can eat bibb lettuce. Like butter lettuce, bibb lettuce has a unique butter-like texture that your goat may enjoy. Bibb lettuce has been noted to have a sweeter taste, so if you have a goat with a sweet tooth, this may be their new favorite snack.

Other Types of lettuce goats can eat.

Goats can eat plenty of varieties of lettuce, including:

  • Arugula
  • Butterhead
  • Leaf
  • Stem

Many of these are named from the texture or look of the lettuce and are not just special names for parts of the plant, no matter how silly they may sound. Be sure to check the nutritional value of the different lettuce types, so you know which ones are best to feed your goat.

It may take a while for you to determine which type of lettuce is your goat’s favorite. Feel free to experiment with the different types until you find one that your pet truly starts to fall in love with.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

How to Feed Your Goats Lettuce 

If you are going to feed your goat lettuce, then you need to properly wash it off before preparing it. Many types of products that you pick up from the grocery store have had pesticides used on them.

Pesticides are toxins that are harmful when ingested and can ultimately make your goat sick. You will also want to check to make sure the lettuce isn’t rotting and that there is no mold hiding in the leaves. Lettuce is a leafy plant, so if you’ve had it for a while, this should be a concern as the leaves can hide decay and mold.

Lettuce is easy to portion for your goats, just pull the leaves off and don’t try to give them the entire head of lettuce. Make sure to portion it so that they never receive more than 20% of their diet in lettuce.

Although it is a healthy vegetable, it is still a treat and does not meet a goat’s daily dietary needs. If you only feed a goat lettuce or give them too much, then they will have a nutrition deficiency.

Never give your goat lettuce that you buy in salad bags without first checking the nutrients. Many store-bought salad mixes will have extra sugar and salt added in for taste. While many store bought pre-packaged produce may seem like a good idea, it’s made for human consumption and ease without taking animals into account.

Lettuce does contain plenty of vitamins and is a fibrous food. Lettuce has the immune-boosting  Vitamin C and Vitamin K, which helps your goat’s blood to clot when they get cut or injured. It also contains Vitamin B9 which helps with the formation of red blood cells in your goat’s body.

Of course, some varieties of lettuce, like romaine, are more plentiful in vitamins than others. If you want to know the nutrition value of new types of lettuce, then read up on them to see just how healthy they are for your goat.

As with any new food, you should be careful when giving lettuce to your goat for the first time. The first time you give your goat lettuce, only give them a small portion and watch closely for any adverse reactions.

Once you have verified that it is safe to feed your goat lettuce, you can give them a much larger portion. Keep in mind that goats younger than six weeks old shouldn’t be given treats. They have special dietary needs that don’t include treats.

FAQ 

Can baby goats eat lettuce? 

No, you should avoid feeding baby goats lettuce until they are around six weeks of age. Baby goats have very specific nutritional needs, and their bodies are still developing.

Can goats eat whole salads?

It depends on what type of salad you are making and what’s in it. You will want to avoid giving goats salads with cheese mixed in or that have dressing already on them.

In addition, you will want to double-check that all the ingredients that are in it are safe for goat consumption. Never give a goat a salad with meat, and if it’s store-bought, you will likely want to avoid it as extra additives like sugar and salt aren’t good for your goat’s body.

If you want to give your goat a salad as a treat, it’s best that you make it at home with fresh vegetables yourself.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Goats Eat Broccoli?

By MrAnimal Farm

goat standing in long grass

Perhaps you have a garden full of broccoli and need to do something with the excess. Or, maybe you are just looking for some healthy treats for your goats. This may lead you to asking: Can goats eat broccoli?

Goats are known for their insatiable appetites. Many people believe that goats are bottomless pits that can consume any type of food or material without any adverse effects. This couldn’t be further from the truth, though, and even some healthy vegetables can be dangerous for goats to consume.

Before you go trying to feed your goat a plate of broccoli, there are a few things about the treat that you need to know.

goat standing in long grass

Can Goats Eat Broccoli 

Yes, goats can eat broccoli in small portions without you having to worry about issues. This is a treat that should be heavily portioned, though, as Broccoli is part of the brassica family of plants. This plant family is known to be harder to digest for goats, so depending on the individual, it may not make the best treat.

Broccoli also naturally contains sulfur. As you probably already have guessed, ingesting too much sulfur isn’t healthy for your goat and should be avoided. If your goat ends up having too much sulfur in its body, then they want to be able to digest it. This will lead to the sulfur becoming toxic and can cause some major issues.

These issues can range from something as small as a stomach aches to tissues in the goat’s brain dying, depending on the amount of sulfur that was ingested.

Broccoli also contains glucosinolates that, when consumed in excess, can lead to thyroid problems and goiters. It’s extremely important to not feed your goat too much broccoli and never exceed more than 20% of their diet in this treat.

If your goat has consumed a large amount of broccoli, then keep a close watch on them. If they show any signs of sickness like vomiting, then contact your vet and provide them with plenty of clean water.

If you are planning to grow broccoli, then make sure your goat can’t get into your crops. To do this, put a fence around the broccoli.

This will ensure that you don’t have any mishaps on your hand and will most likely save you a ton of money in the long run, as you won’t need to get your vet to make a house visit to treat your sick goat.

Can Goats Eat Cooked Broccoli 

Yes, goats can eat cooked broccoli as long as you haven’t added anything extra in. You should never serve broccoli with additives such as salt or cheese. If you have a broccoli dish with seasoning from the grocery store, do not give it to your goat, chances are that they can’t digest the seasoning well.

Can Goats Eat Raw Broccoli? 

Yes, raw broccoli is usually what goat owners give to their goats as treats. Just make sure to clean it off before giving it to your goat.

Can Goats Eat Broccoli Stems? 

Yes, goats can eat the stems of broccoli, just ensure that they are free from pesticides. You will need to experiment to figure out what your goat’s favorite part of the broccoli plant is.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

Can Goats Eat Broccoli Leaves? 

Yes, the whole Broccoli plant, including its leaves, can safely be eaten by your goat. Once again, make sure to wash the leaves off if they are bought from the store or if you used pesticides on your plants.

How to Feed Your Goats Broccoli 

Before you feed your goat broccoli, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. First off, remember that they contain sulfur and glucosinolates, which can be toxic if your goat builds up an excess in their body.

Next, you will want to thoroughly wash off the broccoli before you give it to your goat. Many types of store-bought produce has had pesticides used on it, which is also toxic to goats.  You will also want to check to make sure that the broccoli isn’t rotting and that there isn’t mold hiding anywhere.

Once the broccoli is cleaned, you will want to begin cutting it up into smaller pieces, especially if you bought a larger piece. By cutting the broccoli up, you can ensure that there isn’t a choking risk.

This can also help the treat last a little longer and trick your goat into thinking that they are eating more. Some small pieces of broccoli will come in bags. These can be easier to give to your goat as they are already bite-sized.

Be cautious of things like canned or frozen broccoli, as these may contain preservatives or extra seasoning that are harmful to your goat. Many of these foods will contain extras like salt or sugar, so you always need to closely check nutrition labels.

In addition, frozen dishes, especially those that are seasoned, are not good for goat consumption. Broccoli and cheese is a popular dish, but your goat’s stomach isn’t made to digest the cheese, and they will likely get sick from eating it.

It’s best to feed your goat plain broccoli that you buy from the produce aisle to be on the safe side.

Broccoli does contain a high amount of vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to your goat. Here is a list of the vitamins in broccoli:

  • Iron: Important component of hemoglobin.
  • Phosphorous: Helps with bone health.
  • Vitamins A: Helps with vision and cell growth.
  • Potassium: Helps goat’s tissues stay healthy.
  • Calcium: Helps with bone growth and strength.
  • Vitamin K: Helps blood clotting.
  • Zinc: Increases a goat’s metabolism and helps with the immune system.
  • Vitamin B12: Helps keep blood cells and your goat’s nerve cells healthy,
  • Thiamin: Helps your goat absorb nutrients from food.
  • Vitamin D: Helps with bone health.
  • Riboflavin: Helps with the formation of coenzymes.
  • Vitamin E: Helps keep muscles and nerves healthy.
  • Niacin: Helps with cholesterol and brain functions.
  • Vitamin B6: Helps metabolism and the nervous system.
  • Folate: Helps with cell growth and to form red blood cells.

As you can see from the long list of vitamins and minerals, broccoli is a very nutritional treat when given to your goat in the proper portions. No treat, including broccoli, should ever make up more than 20% of your goat’s diet.

If this is the first time you have ever given your goat broccoli, then use caution. While it is rather rare, a goat can have allergies to foods like broccoli. Start by giving them a small piece of broccoli and watch for any adverse reactions.

Once some time has passed, and you have verified that your goat can stomach the plant, feel free to feed them a larger portion.

Keep in mind that broccoli and treats, in general, shouldn’t be fed to a goat until they are at least six weeks of age. Young goats have very specific nutritional needs and are still developing their teeth.

FAQ 

Can goats eat vegetable scraps? 

The answer is that it depends on the scraps. For example, you can’t give your goat pieces of raw potato without them getting sick. On the other hand, you can feed them cucumber scraps without having to worry about them getting sick. You will also only want to give your goat plain scraps. Scraps that have seasoning on them will only serve to upset your goat’s stomach or make them sick.

What veggies are good for goats? 

There are plenty of different vegetables that are good for your goat to eat. These include; celery, lettuce, spinach, asparagus and cabbage. Before feeding your goat any new types of food, make sure to do thorough research or check with your vet to ensure they are safe.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Goats Eat Pineapple?

By MrAnimal Farm

goat standing on hay bale eating hay

Goats are curious animals that are happy to taste just about any food item they can get their mouths around. It’s not surprising that they will love you when you give them treats, so it’s important to know what foods are safe for them. If you love pineapple and have it around the house, you may wonder, can goats eat pineapple?

Goats are herbivores and love nothing more than to receive tasty plants like pineapple as a treat. Before you go feeding your goat fruit, though, there are quite a few things you need to know. If you feed your goat too much of a good thing, they can get sick, and there are some fruits that are potentially toxic to goats.

goat standing on hay bale eating hay

Can Goats Eat Pineapple 

Yes, goats can safely eat pineapple without you having to worry. Pineapple contains a lot of healthy vitamins and minerals for your goats.

Keep in mind that pineapples, like other fruits such as oranges, blueberries and watermelon, have a high sugar content compared to your goat’s normal diet. To keep their stomach from getting upset, be sure to never feed your goat more than 20% of their diet in treats, especially when it comes to fruit.

While it’s unlikely that most goat owners are growing a pineapple tree, if you are in an area where you can grow one and your goat eats a pineapple, you don’t need to worry unless it wasn’t ripe.

Can Goats Eat Pineapple Rind? 

Yes, goats can eat pineapple rind. As long as you make sure to clean the rind to get pesticides off, you can feed it to your goat. Generally, though, a goat’s favorite part of the pineapple will be the flesh.

Also, make sure the spikes on the rind aren’t too big or hard as it might injure their mouths.

Can Goats Eat Pineapple Tops? 

Yes, goats can eat pineapple tops. The top of the pineapple won’t give your goat a lot of nutrients, but it is perfectly safe to eat.

Can Goats Eat Pineapple Juice? 

Yes and no, if you buy the pineapple juice from the store, there is a high chance it’s full of sugar and has tons of additives that can be harmful to your goat’s body. If you want your goat to have pineapple juice, then it’s best you make it for them yourself, so you know that it is 100% safe for goat consumption.

Can Goats Eat Canned Pineapple? 

No, goats cannot eat canned pineapple. The general answer is no. This is because canned pineapple usually has additives and preservatives. Many types of canned pineapple are made for human consumption and used as dessert toppings.

Need some help to keep your goats healthy and maintained? The G.O.A.T Herd Management Binder has you covered from supplies to routine care reminders.

How to Feed Your Goats Pineapple 

Before you give your goat pineapple, there are a few things that you should do. For starters, you need to make sure to thoroughly wash off the outer part of the pineapple if you are going to feed it to your goat.

Make sure to thoroughly check the pineapple for signs of rot both on the inside and the outside. Once you have verified that the pineapple is fresh and free from mold, you can begin to cut it up.

Pineapples are larger fruits, so you will want to cut them up into small bite-sized pieces for your goat to eat. This ensures that your goat won’t have a chance of choking when they start chowing down on the pineapple.

If you are giving them the rind, this rule applies even more as it is the harder outer shell of the pineapple and much more of a choking risk to your goat than the flesh is.

If you have picked up pineapple from a grocery store, whether frozen or in a can, be cautious. These usually have additives and preservatives added in that will upset your goat’s stomach.

Likewise, you will want to avoid giving your goat pineapple that came out of a dessert (like pineapple upside down cake) as they are high in sugar. Unless you got your pineapple from the produce aisle, it’s probably best to skip giving it to your goat.

Pineapples do contain several different vitamins that are great for your goat’s body. Here is a list of the vitamins and minerals that are in pineapples:

  • Vitamin C: an antioxidant that among other things helps a healthy immune system.
  • Vitamin B6: Helps with keeping the immune and nervous systems healthy, as well as brain development.
  • Thiamin: This helps your goat’s body absorb energy from the nutrients they ingest.
  • Niacin: Helps to lower cholesterol and helps with brain function.
  • Folate: Helps your goat’s cells to grow and their red blood cells to form.
  • Potassium: Helps to keep tissues healthy.
  • Iron: A component needed for hemoglobin.
  • Vitamin D: Helps to provide a boost to your goat’s immune system.
  • Copper: Helps to connect your goat’s tissues, gives them energy and helps with blood vessels.
  • Magnesium: Helps with nerve and muscle functions in your goat’s body.
  • Riboflavin: Helps coenzymes form.

As you can see from the list above, Pineapples can be extremely healthy when given to your goat as treats. You should make sure that no treats, including pineapples, exceed more than 20% of your goat’s diet.

If you feed your goat too much pineapple, then they will have too much sugar in their body and suffer from nutrition deficiencies.

While rare, goats can have allergies, so you should be cautious when providing them with a new treat. Only give your goat a small piece of pineapple to start with and closely watch them to ensure they don’t have an allergic reaction.

Once you have verified that it’s safe, you can feed your goat a larger serving of pineapple. Keep in mind that goats younger than six weeks of age shouldn’t be fed pineapple. Baby goats have specific nutritional needs that need to be met and are still developing their teeth.

FAQ 

Can goats eat unripe pineapple?

No goats shouldn’t eat unripe pineapple. Unripe fruits, in general, can be dangerous for your goat to eat as they are much more likely to contain toxins. If the pineapple you bought is unripe, do not feed it to your goat.

Can baby goats eat pineapple?

Goats that are younger than six weeks of age should not be consuming pineapple or any other treats. Baby goats have nutritional needs that are met by milk and may not be able to safely chew up the pineapple if their teeth haven’t developed far enough, making pineapple and other solid foods a huge choking risk.

If you need more help keeping your goats healthy and well taken care of, check out the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System – worksheets, calculators, supply management and more to keep your goats in tip top shape while cutting down on time.

Access the G.O.A.T. Herd Management System Here

Can Chickens Eat Zucchini?

By MrAnimal Farm

zucchini in wooden basket sitting in the grass

We love to grow zucchini. It’s a great crop for beginning gardeners, it’s prolific, and you can make a tone of delicious recipes with it. With all the love zucchini deserves, can chickens eat zucchini too and share in the joy or will they take an unknowing bite into their last meal?

Keep reading and find out if zucchini is the awesome treat we want it to be!

zucchini in wooden basket sitting in the grass

In This Article

  • Can Chickens Eat Zucchini?
    • What is zucchini?
    • Is zucchini safe for my chickens to eat?
    • What about zucchini plant flowers, leaves, and seeds?
    • Is zucchini healthy for chickens?
      • What are the nutritional benefits of zucchini for chickens?
      • What do these nutrients do?
    • How do you feed zucchini to chickens?

Can Chickens Eat Zucchini?

Chickens can absolutely eat zucchini. In fact, they will love eating it AND it is good for them too! Generally speaking, zucchini, fruit, leaves, flowers, and seeds, are all safe for your chickens to eat.

On occasion there can be dangerous substances called cucurbitacins that will give the zucchini a bitter taste. You can feed zucchini a couple of times a week but we would recommend no more than three times. A single zucchini, when cut in half or into cubes, can feed at least 5 chickens.

What is zucchini?

The zucchini, or courgette, is the long and green edible part of the zucchini plant. Zucchini is part of the summer squash family. A fun little fact is that while zucchini can be found on a ton of different “top vegetables to grow” lists, it is actually technically a fruit. Chickens love it so much for a couple of reasons.

One, zucchini, when harvested in time, is very soft and easy for them to eat and digest. We technically harvest the zucchini prior to it being fully ripe which is why the outer skin is still soft enough to penetrate with your fingernail. The other reason is that zucchini has a very mild, yet sweet, flavor. The lack of bitterness keeps chickens coming back for more and more of this squash.

Is zucchini safe for my chickens to eat?

Zucchini is very safe for chickens to eat. Despite having a sweet flavor there is, surprisingly, not too much sugar. Unlike when chickens eat peaches, nectarines, cranberries, and raisins, which have a lot of sugar and can cause a ton of health issues, like obesity, sugar addiction, and hypoglycemia.

We all want to keep our chickens well taken care of and safe and feeding them zucchini is a treat that can help you do that.

If you need more help with taking care of your chickens, check out The Organized Chicken Keeper for a complete system for managing their health through keeping their supplies stocked and coop clean.

Access The Organized Chicken Keeper Here

There is a possibility that zucchini can have cucurbitacins in them. Cucurbitacins are believed to be a naturally occurring substance that some plants use ad a means of pest control. In higher concentrations it will give the fruit or vegetable a bitter taste.

For people, cucurbitacin poisoning, otherwise known as toxic squash syndrome, can result in diarrhea, nausea & vomiting, and in some cases, hair loss. You can imagine if this is the impact on a full grown adult, what it can do to a chicken who is only a fraction of the same size and weight.

What about zucchini plant flowers, leaves, and seeds?

Unlike peach, nectarine, mango, and tomato plants, the entire zucchini plant is safe for your chickens to eat. Most likely they will want to stick with the fruit of the plant, but, if they do eat the plant, rest assured they will be just fine. Also, as a side note, it is possible there is a higher concentration of cucurbitacin in the rest of the plant, so do take a bit of caution if feeding them zucchini greens.

Is zucchini healthy for chickens?

Zucchini is full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients your chicken needs to live a happy and healthy life. Because it has so much water in it, it will also help keep them hydrated. Water, as well as fiber, also helps aid in digestion too.

Additionally, while we could not find any scientific studies or sources saying this is true, there are anecdotal experiences of zucchini being used as a natural dewormer, along with pumpkin seeds and some other gourds. Again, we have not been able to confirm this so keep in mind, if you do consider trying it out, your experience may vary from the experiences of others.

What are the nutritional benefits of zucchini for chickens?

Below, You’ll find the USDA FoodData Center nutritional analysis on a serving size of 1 raw, skin-on, medium size zucchini (196g).

NameAmountMeasurement
Water186.000g
Energy33.300kcal
Protein2.370g
Fat0.627g
Carbohydrate, by difference6.100g
Fiber, total dietary1.960g
Sugars, total including NLEA4.900g
Calcium, Ca31.400mg
Iron, Fe0.725mg
Magnesium, Mg35.300mg
Phosphorus, P74.500mg
Potassium, K512.000mg
Sodium, Na15.700mg
Zinc, Zn0.627mg
Copper, Cu0.104mg
Manganese, Mn0.347mg
Selenium, Se0.392µg
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid35.100mg
Vitamin B-60.319mg
Folate, total47.000µg
Vitamin A, RAE19.600µg
Carotene, beta235.000µg
Vitamin A, IU392.000IU
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)0.235mg
Vitamin K (phylloquinone)8.430µg

What do these nutrients do?

Here are what some of those nutrients mentioned above do to keep your chicken’s body running right.

  • Antioxidants: repair damage from free radicals, fight off/prevent future damage, protect from oxidative damage, anti-inflammatory, lower blood pressure, improve heart health in high enough doses, development and health of tissue, skin, and feathers
  • Vitamin A: eye, skin, respiratory, and digestive health
  • Vitamin B6: healthy blood vessels, eye/vision health, nervous system , immune system
  • Carbohydrates: give chickens energy
  • Vitamin C: joint, cellular, and immune health; collagen synthesis
  • Fiber: only small amounts or they can become constipated, get a blockage, etc; energy, growth, and digestive health
  • Potassium: temperature control; hydration & electrolyte regulation, metabolism; heart health/heart disease preventative

How do you feed zucchini to chickens?

If you did not grow it yourself without pesticides or buy it from a pesticide free farm, make sure you thoroughly wash the zucchini to remove any potential residue. It’s always a good idea to wash your fruits and veggies anyway but especially so if they have been exposed to pest control sprays.

You can feed zucchini whole, if you like but most likely some chickens will eat too much while other will not get much, if any, at all. What we recommend is to either cut it into small cubes or cut it in half and put down a pair of zucchini “troughs”.

If you need more help with taking care of your chickens, check out The Organized Chicken Keeper for a complete system for managing their health through keeping their supplies stocked and coop clean.

Access The Organized Chicken Keeper Here

Can Chickens Eat Rhubarb?

By MrAnimal Farm

Edible rhubarb stalks on the wooden table.

Rhubarb pie is an American staple. It is super tasty and that is in large part because rhubarb on it’s own is very good. Unfortunately, rhubarb gets a bad rap sometimes because people believe it to be toxic for them AND their animals. So, can chickens eat rhubarb or will they eat it and end up plant food themselves?

Still along to find out just what happens when chickens eat rhubarb!

Edible rhubarb stalks on the wooden table.

In This Article

  • Can Chickens Eat Rhubarb?
    • Is it safe for chickens to eat rhubarb?
    • Oxalic Acid
    • Can chickens eat rhubarb flowers, leaves, seeds, or stalks?
    • Is rhubarb healthy for chickens?
      • What are the nutritional benefits of rhubarb for chickens?
      • What do these nutrients do?
    • How do you feed rhubarb to chickens?
    • Frequently Asked Questions
      • Q1. Can I overfeed my chickens rhubarb?
      • Q2. How much rhubarb can I feed to my chickens?
      • Q3. How often can I feed rhubarb to my chickens?
      • Q4. Can chicks eat rhubarb?
      • Q5. Can chickens eat rhubarb pie or crumble?
      • Q6. What other fruits and vegetables are safe for chickens?
      • Berries

Can Chickens Eat Rhubarb?

Yes, chickens can eat rhubarb, for the most part. The stalks are perfectly safe and healthy for them too. However, the leaves can be very dangerous. They contain a compound called oxalis acid and can possibly lead to kidney failure and, in some cases, death.

When feeding the stalks, it’s best to cut them into smaller, bite-size pieces and scatter them for your chickens. Rhubarb can be a good supplemental snack but try and only feed it three or four times a week.

Is it safe for chickens to eat rhubarb?

As you may know, rhubarb contains a lot of healthy nutrients but that is only when eating the stalks. The leaves, depending on their age and size, can spell a death sentence for your chicken flock. This is due to a high concentration of oxalis acid.

Oxalate poisoning, or rhubarb leaf poisoning, in humans will present itself initially through symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Your chickens aren’t going to vomit but they can get diarrhea. It is also sometimes possible to tell when your chickens are experiencing pain. You may also be able to carefully palpate their abdomen and see if they are tender; but this is difficult to really tell.

Other, more chicken specific, signs you may notice during your routine health checks are lethargy, puffed up feathers, abnormal movement, or just acting differently in general. 

Source: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/rhubarb-leaves

Need some help keeping your chickens health and care taken care of? Check out the Organized Chicken Keeper for an easy to follow system.

Oxalic Acid

Oxalic acid, while also found in rhubarb stalks, is much more prevalent in the leaves which is what makes them so dangerous. 

For people, our bodies eliminate about 40 to 50 mg per day and only around 10” of that comes from what we eat. In general, humans take in, through diet or other means, between 200 and 300 mg a day. More than this can cause oxalate to buildup and lead to a variety of health issues. Specifically, buildup of oxalate in the kidneys can cause kidney failure. 

Cooking will reduce the amount of oxalate content as will soaking it raw; but soaking will can also reduce other nutrients, as well.

Rhubarb is not the only vegetable that contains Oxalic acid. There are many others, to varying degrees. Typically, you will find it in their leaves and not the vegetable itself, or at least not in very high quantities. This chart show some vegetables that contain oxalic acid and what levels.

Vegetables Oxalic Acid (g/100g)
Asparagus 0.13
Beans, snap 0.36
Beet leaves 0.61
Beetroot 0.06
Broccoli 0.19
Brussels sprouts 0.02
Cabbage 0.10
Carrot 0.50
Cassava 1.26
Cauliflower 0.15
Celery 0.19
Chives 1.48
Collards 0.45
Corn, sweet 0.01
Cucumber 0.02
Eggplant 0.19
Garlic 0.36
Kale 0.02
Lettuce 0.33
Okra 0.05
Onion 0.05
Parsley 1.70
Parsnip 0.04
Pea 0.05
Bell pepper 0.04
Potato 0.05
Purslane 1.31
Radish 0.48
Rhubarb leaves 0.52
Spinach 0.97
Squash 0.02
Sweet potato 0.24
Swiss Chard, green 0.96
Tomato 0.05
Turnip 0.21

Can chickens eat rhubarb flowers, leaves, seeds, or stalks?

When we say it is safe for chickens to eat rhubarb, we mean rhubarb stalks. Unlike plants like zucchini which the whole plant is safe for chickens to eat, only part of rhubarb is safe. The rest of the rhubarb plant all fall into the potentially dangerous category.

Is rhubarb healthy for chickens?

Rhubarb can be healthy for chickens, assuming they are eating a moderate amount and avoiding the leaves, flowers, and seeds of the plant. This veggie is packed with many vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to keep them running smoothly.

What are the nutritional benefits of rhubarb for chickens?

The table below, courtesy of the USDA FoodData Center, has a breakdown of the nutritional analysis based on a serving size of 1 rhubarb stalk (51g).

Name Amount Measurement
Water 47.700 g
Energy 10.700 kcal
Protein 0.459 g
Fat 0.102 g
Carbohydrate, by difference 2.320 g
Fiber, total dietary 0.918 g
Sugars, total including NLEA 0.561 g
Calcium, Ca 43.900 mg
Iron, Fe 0.112 mg
Magnesium, Mg 6.120 mg
Phosphorus, P 7.140 mg
Potassium, K 147.000 mg
Sodium, Na 2.040 mg
Zinc, Zn 0.051 mg
Copper, Cu 0.011 mg
Manganese, Mn 0.100 mg
Selenium, Se 0.561 µg
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid 4.080 mg
Folate, total 3.570 µg
Vitamin A, RAE 2.550 µg
Carotene, beta 31.100 µg
Vitamin A, IU 52.000 IU

What do these nutrients do?

Here is a brief rundown of what some of nutrients on the table above mean for your chickens’ health.

  • Antioxidants: repair damage from free radicals, fight off/prevent future damage, protect from oxidative damage, anti-inflammatory, lower blood pressure, improve heart health in high enough doses, development and health of tissue, skin, and feathers
  • Vitamin A: eye, skin, respiratory, and digestive health
  • Carotene, Beta (Beta Carotene): egg, feathers, skin, beak, and comb color; converts to Vitamin A
  • Vitamin C: joint, cellular, and immune health; collagen synthesis
  • Carbohydrates: give chickens energy
  • Vitamin E:
  • Fiber: only small amounts or they can become constipated, get a blockage, etc; energy, growth, and digestive health
  • Folate (B Vitamin): folate deficiency; helps blood formation; healthy feathers & size
  • Iron: prevents anemia; assists in blood circulation
  • Vitamin K: blood clotting, bone metabolism
  • Manganese: bone development, immune system, breaks down carbs, cholesterol, and amino acids; controls blood sugar
  • Protein: muscle growth and development
  • Selenium: Boosts their immune system and helps with over nutrient balance in selenium deficient areas (most of the US)

How do you feed rhubarb to chickens?

Remove all of the leaves, strings along the stalk, and the tough ends of the stalks. Cut into small pieces and scatter. You can feed raw or cooked (boiled).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I overfeed my chickens rhubarb?

We recommend only feeding nectarines around 1 to 3 times a week. This will give them all of the health benefits while also minimizing the risks that come with too much sugar.

Q2. How much rhubarb can I feed to my chickens?

A single rhubarb stalk, when cut into small cubes, can probably feed around 4 or 5 chickens.

Q3. How often can I feed rhubarb to my chickens?

We recommend no more than 4 times a week; reducing if you start to notice a change or decline in their health and temperament. We like to go by the 90/10 rule which says 90% of their diet should come from free ranging and a chicken feed with only 10% coming from other sources like snacks, treat, and supplements. 

Q4. Can chicks eat rhubarb?

We do not recommend feeding rhubarb to your chicks. Until they are old enough to join the rest of the outside flock, it’s best to keep them on a good quality starter/grower feed.

Q5. Can chickens eat rhubarb pie or crumble?

They can eat rhubarb pie and rhubarb crumble but they really shouldn’t. The amount of sugar is much to high for your chickens and can be a potential health risk.

Q6. What other fruits and vegetables are safe for chickens?

Here are some popular foods that your chickens can eat.

Fruits

  • Apples (not the seeds)
  • Bananas
  • Cantaloupe
  • Cherries
  • Figs
  • Kiwi
  • Peaches
  • Watermelon

Vegetables & Gourdes

  • Asparagus
  • Pumpkin
  • Radish
  • Sweet Potato
  • Tomatoes
  • Yellow Squash
  • Zucchini

Berries

  • Blackberries
  • Blueberries
  • Mountain Ash Berries
  • Mulberries
  • Raspberries
  • Rowan Berries

If you need more help with taking care of your chickens, check out The Organized Chicken Keeper for a complete system for managing their health through keeping their supplies stocked and coop clean.

Access The Organized Chicken Keeper Here

Can Chickens Eat Lemons?

By MrAnimal Farm

If you are at all familiar with the Southern US, you know that sweet tea may as well be our national drink. Add a lemon wedge to it and you can make even the hottest of summer days a little bit cooler. Lemon is like that with many foods and drinks; a small squeeze and a whole new world of flavor is brought to life. So, can chickens eat lemons and also enjoy those sweet, yet sour, benefits or will your chickens suddenly sour on life…permanently?

Keep reading and find out if you should bring out the cutting board for your lemons or the chopping block for your chickens!

orange and orange slices on a bamboo cutting board

In This Article

  • Can Chickens Eat Lemons?
    • Is it safe for a chicken to eat lemons?
    • Can chickens eat lemon peels?
    • Are lemons healthy for chickens?
      • What are the nutritional benefits of lemons for chickens?
      • What do these nutrients do?
    • How do you feed lemons to chickens?
    • Frequently Asked Questions
      • Q1. Can I overfeed my chicken lemons?
      • Q2. How many lemons can I feed to my chickens?
      • Q3. How often can I feed lemons to my chickens?
      • Q4. Can chicks eat lemons?
      • Q5. What other things are safe for chickens?

Can Chickens Eat Lemons?

Yes, chickens can eat lemons. Despite what you may have heard about citrus being toxic for chickens, there is no evidence that actually says that. The truth is, lemons acidic and sour flavor, some chickens will love them while others will not give them more than a single peck.

Is it safe for a chicken to eat lemons?

As we mentioned, lemons are completely harmless. For some reason, lemons, and other citrus fruits like limes, oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, and mandarins, have gained a reputation for being deadly if chickens eat them. Some of this is likely due to anecdotal evidence of lethargy, obesity, and excessive preening or loss of feathers.

The truth is, those are all common signs associated with any fruits, or other foods, that have a higher than normal amount of sugar in them. In fact, sugar is really, the main concern we have about the safety of lemons and citrus fruit, in general. So, if you are feeding your chickens treats, make sure to do routine health checks to keep tabs on your birds.

Whether they are eating lemons, peaches, nectarines, cranberries, or raisins, consuming too much sugar can cause any of those symptoms and more; like hypoglycemia.

Need some help keeping your chickens health and care taken care of? Check out the Organized Chicken Keeper for an easy to follow system.

Can chickens eat lemon peels?

Lemon peels are perfectly fine for your chickens to eat. They are a bit tough so they likely won’t want to eat them, but it is safe for them to do so. We just recommend that you make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any excess pesticide residue or display wax from the grocery store.

Your chickens may enjoy using lemon peels as a toy and peck at it or scratch it around.

Are lemons healthy for chickens?

Lemons are absolutely a healthy snack choice for your chickens. Assuming you are feeding lemons sparingly and in moderation, your chickens will enjoy a boost in their immune system from the vitamin C and other antioxidants packed into lemons.

What are the nutritional benefits of lemons for chickens?

The table below, courtesy of the USDA FoodData Center, has a breakdown of the nutritional analysis based on a serving size of 1 lemon wedge (8g).

Name Amount Measurement
Water 7.1 g
Energy 2.3 kcal
Protein 0.1 g
Total lipid (fat) 0.0 g
Carbohydrate, by difference 0.7 g
Fiber, total dietary 0.2 g
Sugars, total including NLEA 0.2 g
Calcium, Ca 2.1 mg
Iron, Fe 0.0 mg
Magnesium, Mg 0.6 mg
Phosphorus, P 1.3 mg
Potassium, K 11.0 mg
Sodium, Na 0.2 mg
Zinc, Zn 0.0 mg
Copper, Cu 0.0 mg
Selenium, Se 0.0 µg
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid 4.2 mg
Folate, total 0.9 µg
Folic acid 0.0 µg
Vitamin A, RAE 0.1 µg
Carotene, beta 0.2 µg

What do these nutrients do?

Confused about what the table above mean? Check out these examples of what role these nutrients play in your chickens’ health.

  • Antioxidants: (Beta Carotene, Lycopene) repair damage from free radicals, fight off/prevent future damage, protect from oxidative damage, anti-inflammatory, lower blood pressure, improve heart health in high enough doses, development and health of tissue, skin, and feathers
  • Vitamin A: eye, skin, respiratory, and digestive health
  • Vitamin C: joint, cellular, and immune health; collagen synthesis
  • Calcium: bones and egg shell strength
  • Carbohydrates: give chickens energy
  • Fiber: only small amounts or they can become constipated, get a blockage, etc; energy, growth, and digestive health
  • Folate (B Vitamin): folate deficiency; helps blood formation; healthy feathers & size
  • Magnesium: bone strength and development, cellular metabolism, heart health, muscle function
  • Potassium: temperature control; hydration & electrolyte regulation, metabolism; heart health/heart disease preventative

How do you feed lemons to chickens?

The best way to feed lemons to your chickens is to, first, cut them into wedges and remove the seeds, if you like. The seeds are safe but you may want to remove them. Next, you can use the same sharp knife to remove the lemon peel from the fruits. Again, the peel is safe but can be tough to eat and may be a deterrent for some less determined chickens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I overfeed my chicken lemons?

Absolutely chickens can be overfed lemons. Stick to feeding them a small amount a few times a week or run the risk of potentially preventable health issues further down the line.

Q2. How many lemons can I feed to my chickens?

A lemon, when cut properly, will give you about 8 wedges. If you cut each of those in half you can feed anywhere from 8 to 16 chickens with a single lemon. Since lemons do have a fair amount of sugar in them, we recommend only giving each chicken half a wedge; maybe a whole wedge if they are a bit larger.

Q3. How often can I feed lemons to my chickens?

We stick to only feeding lemons, and other sugar rich treats, about 1 day, and no more than 3 days, per week. This is so we can make sure they do not throw off their dietary balance. For the best health, stick to the 90/10 rule; 90% of their food is quality feed and bugs, 10% can be snacks and other things.

Q4. Can chicks eat lemons?

We recommend only feeding your chicks a quality starter/grower, or other chick-specific feed, until they are old enough to be introduced to the rest of the flock. While they are small chicks they are quickly developing and you do not want to throw off their dietary balance during this time.

Q5. What other things are safe for chickens?

Here are some things that your chickens can eat:

  • Bananas
  • Cantaloupe
  • Cherries
  • Figs
  • Radish
  • Sweet Potato
  • Tomatoes
  • Mulberries
  • Rowan Berries
  • Ticks

If you need more help with taking care of your chickens, check out The Organized Chicken Keeper for a complete system for managing their health through keeping their supplies stocked and coop clean.

Access The Organized Chicken Keeper Here

Can Chickens Eat Oranges?

By MrAnimal Farm

orange and orange slices on a bamboo cutting board

I don’t know about you but there are few things as delicious and satisfying as biting into a sweet, fresh orange. Oranges have just the right amount of sweet combined with tart to become one of our favorite fruits. Plus, it’s super healthy too. So, we have to ask, can chickens eat oranges and enjoy them the same way we do or will they end up being fertilizer under the citrus tree?

Keep scrolling and you will find out if it’s true when poultry farmers and other chicken owners say that oranges are deadly for their flock!

orange and orange slices on a bamboo cutting board

In This Article

  • Can Chickens Eat Oranges?
    • Is it safe for a chicken to eat oranges?
    • Can chickens eat orange peels?
    • Are oranges healthy for chickens?
      • What are the nutritional benefits of oranges for chickens?
      • What do these nutrients do?
    • How do you feed oranges to chickens?
    • Frequently Asked Questions
      • Q1. Can I overfeed my chicken oranges?
      • Q2. How many oranges can I feed to my chickens?
      • Q3. How often can I feed oranges to my chickens?
      • Q4. Can chicks eat oranges?
      • Q5. What other things can chickens eat?

Can Chickens Eat Oranges?

Yes, chickens can eat oranges as well as other citrus fruits. The peel can sometimes have residue from display wax and pesticides but citrus fruits, like oranges, are not actually harmful. However, some chickens do not like them due to their tartness.

Is it safe for a chicken to eat oranges?

Despite what you may have read on the internet, there is no evidence that citrus fruits, like oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, mandarins, lemons, and limes, are any more harmful than any other fruit. The only real danger, in our opinion, come from overeating and consuming too much sugar.

Of course, whenever you feed any treats, you want to do so in moderation and do regular health checks on your chickens to keep tabs on their health.. As with any fruit, especially those high in sugar, like peaches, nectarines, cranberries, and raisins, too much can become unhealthy with the large levels of sugar; which we will look at a little deeper in just a bit.

Need some help keeping your chickens health and care taken care of? Check out the Organized Chicken Keeper for an easy to follow system.

Can chickens eat orange peels?

Assuming the peel does not have any wax or pesticide residue left on it, the peel is perfectly fine to give to your chickens. However, because of it’s tough leathery texture, they will probably make use of orange peels as chicken toys rather than snacks.

Are oranges healthy for chickens?

In moderation, oranges can be very healthy. As you may already know, citrus fruits, including oranges, are rife with Vitamin C and, thus, can give your flock a HUGE boost in their immune systems.

The only major problems to look out for, assuming you are feeding oranges to your chickens without the peel, is the extreme amount of sugar. Excess sugar can lead to a multitude of problems including, but not limited too, heart disease, joint and muscle pain, a decline in an appetite for their regular feed, and low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia.

There is evidence to suggest that prolonged exposure to citric and absorbic acids can weaken the strength and thickness of their egg shells.

What are the nutritional benefits of oranges for chickens?

The table below, courtesy of the USDA FoodData Center, has a breakdown of the nutritional analysis based on a serving size of 1 naval orange (140g).

Name Amount Measurement
Water 121.0 g
Energy 72.8 kcal
Protein 1.3 g
Fat 0.2 g
Carbohydrate, by difference 16.5 g
Fiber, total dietary 2.8 g
Sugars, Total NLEA 12.0 g
Calcium, Ca 60.2 mg
Iron, Fe 0.5 mg
Magnesium, Mg 15.0 mg
Phosphorus, P 32.2 mg
Potassium, K 232.0 mg
Sodium, Na 12.6 mg
Zinc, Zn 0.2 mg
Copper, Cu 0.1 mg
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid 82.7 mg
Folate, total 35.0 µg

What do these nutrients do?

Wondering what all of the things on the table above mean? Here are a couple examples of how those nutrients affect your chickens’ health.

  • Antioxidants: (Beta Carotene, Lycopene) repair damage from free radicals, fight off/prevent future damage, protect from oxidative damage, anti-inflammatory, lower blood pressure, improve heart health in high enough doses, development and health of tissue, skin, and feathers
  • Vitamin A: eye, skin, respiratory, and digestive health
  • Vitamin C: joint, cellular, and immune health; collagen synthesis
  • Calcium: bones and egg shell strength
  • Carbohydrates: give chickens energy
  • Fiber: only small amounts or they can become constipated, get a blockage, etc; energy, growth, and digestive health
  • Folate (B Vitamin): folate deficiency; helps blood formation; healthy feathers & size
  • Magnesium: bone strength and development, cellular metabolism, heart health, muscle function
  • Potassium: temperature control; hydration & electrolyte regulation, metabolism; heart health/heart disease preventative

How do you feed oranges to chickens?

When it comes to oranges, and most other citrus fruits, you don’t really have a lot of serving options. You get to basically choose peeled or unpeeled.

We recommend peeling the orange first. That way you can eliminate any accidental exposure to pesticides or the wax they use to make produce look shiny in the grocery store. Plus, the peel is tough and will take your chickens more time and energy to get through it.

After peeling it, we like to seperate each of the wedges and then cut each of those in half. You will likely end up with around 20 or so orange pieces, give or take a couple. Then just scatter those pieces around the barnyard or wherever your chickens like to gather for snacktime.

A word of advice, though, keep an eye on how much they eat and if there are any leftovers. You will want to make sure no one is overeating, so you can avoid any of the health concerns mentioned earlier. The other reason is, if there are any leftovers, you don’t want to leave them lying around. They will quickly attract bugs and rodents; neither of which you want to be hanging around your homestead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I overfeed my chicken oranges?

Yes, you can overfeed oranges to your chickens. Some of the hazards can be heart problems, pain and discomfort, and blood sugar issues.

Q2. How many oranges can I feed to my chickens?

The average orange has around 10 segments. We like to cut each of them in half and scatter them in our barnyard. Given the high amount of sugar, half a slice to 1 slice is plenty for a chicken. So, a single orange can feed between 10 and 20 chickens.

Q3. How often can I feed oranges to my chickens?

We think it’s best to keep orange, or any citrus, treats to around 1 to, no more than, 3 times a week. If they start showing signs of poor health, try decreasing the amount of times or eliminating them altogether to determine if it oranges are the culprit or if it is something else.

Q4. Can chicks eat oranges?

It is not a good idea to feed oranges, or any non chick specific feed to chicks until they are a little bit older. We recommend sticking with a starter/grower feed until they are ready to join the rest of the flock outside.

You can, but the sugar can be even more dangerous to them, due to their small size. Instead of various treats, we find it best to stick with a good starter feed until they are able to handle a wider variety in their diet.

Q5. What other things can chickens eat?

Some other things chickens can eat are:

  • Apples (not the seeds)
  • Bananas
  • Cantaloupe
  • Asparagus
  • Pumpkin
  • Radish
  • Blackberries
  • Blueberries
  • Mountain Ash Berries
  • Mulberries
  • Ticks

If you need more help with taking care of your chickens, check out The Organized Chicken Keeper for a complete system for managing their health through keeping their supplies stocked and coop clean.

Access The Organized Chicken Keeper Here

Can Chickens Eat Nectarines?

By MrAnimal Farm

Large ripe and juicy nectarines on a wooden table. Healthy diet

Nothing feels more summery or satisfying than biting into a fresh, juicy, sweet nectarine on a warm afternoon. It’s such a pleasant experience, obviously, you will want to share it with your favorite feathered friend. But, can chickens eat nectarines or will your friendly gesture take a toll on your chickens health?

Keep reading to find out if your chicken can enjoy a tasty nectarine or if you will turn out to be the Brutus to their Julius Caesar.

Large ripe and juicy nectarines on a wooden table. Healthy diet

In This Article

  • Can Chickens Eat Nectarines?
    • Is it safe for a chicken to eat a nectarine?
    • Can chickens eat a nectarine pit?
    • Are the leaves and nectarine tree poisonous to chickens?
    • Are nectarines healthy for chickens?
      • Hypoglycemia in chickens
      • What are the nutritional benefits of nectarines for chickens?
      • What do these nutrients do?
    • How do you feed nectarines to chickens?
    • Frequently Asked Questions
      • Q1. Can I overfeed my chicken nectarines?
      • Q2. How many nectarines can I feed to my chickens?
      • Q3. How often can I feed nectarines to my chickens?
      • Q4. Can chicks eat nectarines?
      • Q5. Other things chickens can eat:

Can Chickens Eat Nectarines?

Yes, chickens can eat nectarines. Not only can they, but they will wholeheartedly devour any you offer to them. You should, however, feed them sparingly as they contain a high amount of sugar which can be harmful if fed too often.

But, when fed in moderation, your chickens will benefit from the vast amount of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients packed into nectarines. The only danger is the pit (like in peaches) can be toxic, but they are large enough that it’s unlikely your chickens will eat them; but you can always remove the pit before feeding anyway.

Is it safe for a chicken to eat a nectarine?

There is very little danger involved when feeding nectarines to your chickens. Overall, the entire nectarine is safe for them to eat; both the flesh and the skin.

Can chickens eat a nectarine pit?

Nectarines, like peaches, cherries, and apricots, are stone fruits. What that means is they have a large stone like seed, also called a pit. The reason being is because it contains amygdalin. Amygdalin is dangerous because it will turn hydrogen cyanide. Cyanide, in large enough quantities, can make your chickens very sick and even, in large enough doses, be fatal.

For the most part, this is just good information to have. It’s unlikely your chickens will try to eat the pit. It is very hard and not very flavorful, especially compared to the juicy nectarine surrounding it.

Need some help keeping your chickens health and care taken care of? Check out the Organized Chicken Keeper for an easy to follow system.

Are the leaves and nectarine tree poisonous to chickens?

Yes, everything other than the actual nectarine is toxic. The leaves, bark, and seeds, as we discussed above, all contain cyanide and are dangerous if consumed.

Are nectarines healthy for chickens?

Despite the leaves, tree, bark, and pit all being toxic, the actual nectarines are a good and healthy treat for chickens. Your chickens immune systems will definitely benefit, due to the high level of vitamin C and other antioxidants. Nectarines are also full of water and can help keep your flock hydrated.

Much like other fruits that chickens can eat like lemons and oranges, nectarines MUST be fed in moderation. Even though they have a ton of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients, they are also packed with sugar.

Too much sugar, just like with humans, can be very harmful to your chickens. Excess sugar can lead to many health issues; one of the worst being hypoglycemia.

Hypoglycemia in chickens

Most of the time we think of hypoglycemia as something that happens to people with diabetes. But that is not the case. It can happen to most of us and many animals, too. Essentially, hypoglycemia just means low blood sugar.

When your chickens eat sugar their body breaks it down and converts it into glucose. Glucose is one of the primary ways the body gets energy. By energy, we don’t just mean it in a sense of having the energy to run or jump. While those are ways the body uses energy, it also takes energy to keep their internal organs running, as well.

When the body has an overabundance of sugar, they will get a sudden spike of energy (hyper-glycemia). Think of a little kid the day after Halloween. But glucose burns very, very quickly leading to a sudden drop in their blood sugar level (hypo glycemia). Think of that same little kid about an hour later.

That sudden depletion of glucose, depending on how severe, can throw a chicken’s entire system out of whack. The result can be anything from being a little dizzy and disoriented all the way up to loss of consciousness and even death.

We don’t mean to scare you. It’s easy to avoid hypoglycemia. Just make sure you monitor what your chickens are eating and they will be just fine.

What are the nutritional benefits of nectarines for chickens?

The table below, courtesy of the USDA FoodData Center, has a breakdown of the nutritional analysis based on a serving size of 1 medium sized fresh nectarine (142g).

Name Amount Measurement
Water 130 g
Energy 67.6 kcal
Protein 1.34 g
Carbohydrates 14.8 g
Fiber 2.2 g
Fat .397 g
Sugars 12.3 g
Calcium 5.88 mg
Potassium 179 mg
Folate 8.82 µg
Vitamin C 6.03 mg
Vitamin A 35.3 µg

What do these nutrients do?

Here is a brief rundown of what some of nutrients on the table above mean for your chickens’ health.

  • Antioxidants: (Beta Carotene, Lycopene) repair damage from free radicals, fight off/prevent future damage, protect from oxidative damage, anti-inflammatory, lower blood pressure, improve heart health in high enough doses, development and health of tissue, skin, and feathers
  • Vitamin A: eye, skin, respiratory, and digestive health
  • Carotene, Beta (Beta Carotene): egg, feathers, skin, beak, and comb color; converts to Vitamin A
  • Vitamin C: joint, cellular, and immune health; collagen synthesis
  • Calcium: bones and egg shell strength
  • Carbohydrates: give chickens energy
  • Fiber: only small amounts or they can become constipated, get a blockage, etc; energy, growth, and digestive health
  • Folate (B Vitamin): folate deficiency; helps blood formation; healthy feathers & size
  • Potassium: temperature control; hydration & electrolyte regulation, metabolism; heart health/heart disease preventative

How do you feed nectarines to chickens?

Make sure you wash them thoroughly prior to feeding. This will make sure that any pesticide residue will be washed away. We recommend either growing your own or buying from a pesticide free farmer.

Nectarines are soft enough that you can just toss it on the ground and they will likely pounce it. This is definitely the easiest method but is not the most efficient way to feed them.

For one, you will run the risk of a single chicken or two fighting and getting the lion’s share of the nectarine. As we now know, if they eat too much they can develop some pretty severe health issues. Next, one or two nectarines for a whole flock of chickens is going to end up in a dogpiled mess of feathers, dirt, and squashed fruit. How do you eliminate both of those problems?

Cut it into very small pieces!

When you cut it up into, say, 1″ cubes, you can take a handful of nectarine and scatter it across a pretty wide area. That means your chickens will disperse and not get into a bare-cluckled beak fight. It’s also much easier to monitor how much each of your chickens are eating, thus, avoiding hypoglycemia and other health problems.

You can also mix chopped nectarines in with their feed and give that to them. This will make the food a little more dense and give them a larger range of nutrients when eating instead of just a huge sugar dump.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I overfeed my chicken nectarines?

We recommend only feeding nectarines around 1 to 3 times a week. This will give them all of the health benefits while also minimizing the risks that come with too much sugar.

Q2. How many nectarines can I feed to my chickens?

One nectarine, when cut into small cubes, can probably feed around 4 or 5 chickens.

Q3. How often can I feed nectarines to my chickens?

You will likely not want to feed nectarines to your chickens more than 1 to 3 times a week. It is also a good practice to intersperse them with other fruits, veggies, and supplemental feeds.

Q4. Can chicks eat nectarines?

You can, but the sugar can be even more dangerous to them, due to their small size. Instead of various treats, we find it best to stick with a good starter feed until they are able to handle a wider variety in their diet.

Q5. Other things chickens can eat:

Here are some popular foods that your chickens can eat.

  • Bananas
  • Cantaloupe
  • Figs
  • Tomatoes
  • Yellow Squash
  • Zucchini
  • Mountain Ash Berries
  • Mulberries
  • Raspberries
  • Ticks

If you need more help with taking care of your chickens, check out The Organized Chicken Keeper for a complete system for managing their health through keeping their supplies stocked and coop clean.

Access The Organized Chicken Keeper Here

Can Chickens Eat Pears?

By MrAnimal Farm

group of ripe pears lie on old planed wooden boards

Pear trees are not an uncommon fruit to find growing on your property. This plant is pretty hardy and can grow in many different climates. So, do not be surprised if, one day while free ranging, you find your chickens have discovered how delicious pears can be. Now, can chickens eat pears or have the stumbled upon the forbidden fruit of the chicken world?

Will our fine feathered friends survive this fantastic feast or will their discovery become an unfettered fiasco? Keep reading to find out.

group of ripe pears lie on old planed wooden boards
Ripe peaches fruit in basket on a brown wooden background

In This Article

  • Can Chickens Eat Pears?
    • Is it safe for a chicken to eat pears?
    • Are pears healthy for chickens?
      • What are the nutritional benefits of pears for chickens?
      • What do these nutrients do?
    • How do you feed pears to chickens?
    • Frequently Asked Questions
      • Q1. Can I overfeed my chicken pears?
      • Q2. Can chicks eat pears?
      • Q3. How many pears can I feed to my chickens?
      • Q3. How often can I feed pears to my chickens?
      • Q4. What fruits and vegetables are safe for chickens?
      • Berries

Can Chickens Eat Pears?

Yes, chickens can eat pears and they love the sweet fruit! The entire pear is safe to eat (except the pit), flesh, skin, seeds, and stem, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally feeding your chickens something dangerous.

In fact, not only will they find it delicious, but it is also nutritious for them too. Healthy treats are an important part of keeping healthy chickens and should be incorporated into their diet. You can feed them treats during their routine health checks.

Much like when chickens eat oranges and other fruits, pears area also high in sugar content. Due to the sugar content, you will only want to feed about one pear per five chickens and between two and four times a week.

Finally, pears are also soft enough to be given whole but are best cut into small cubes and spread in a wide area to avoid fights.

Is it safe for a chicken to eat pears?

Pears are absolutely safe for your chickens to eat. You may have heard that their seeds are poisonous. And technically, like apples, they do contain a small amount of cyanide, it would probably take half an orchard to amass the quantity it would take to become dangerous. Maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but I think you get the point.

The only real safety concerns we would have are potential choking hazards and the high level of sugar. We’ll discuss how to avoid choking later when we review how pears should be served. Right now, though, let’s talk about the high sugar content.

Need some help keeping your chickens health and care taken care of? Check out the Organized Chicken Keeper for an easy to follow system.

Just like when chickens eat nectarines, raisins, and peaches which are also full of sugar, you need to be mindful of how much you are allowing your chickens to eat.

A single cup of Bartlett pear has a whopping 13.6 grams of sugar! That is a ton, especially when you consider the average hen weighs less than 3 kilograms.

Overeating sugar is just as bad for chickens as it is for humans. It can lead to obesity, putting excess strain on their heart, joints, and ligaments, sugar addiction, which can cause them to stop eating their regular food in pursuit of their next sugar fix (no, really), and hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, which can range from feeling a little dizzy all the way up to being fatal.

Are pears healthy for chickens?

Yes, pears can be a healthy snack when given in moderation. In spite of the high level of sugar, pears contain a ton of water which will help your chickens stay hydrated. They are a good source of dietary fiber which assists in digestion as well as improving their heart function with potassium.

Both copper and iron will help your chickens have a healthy circulatory system. And, finally, high levels of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and plenty of antioxidants keep their immune system running at peak performance.

What are the nutritional benefits of pears for chickens?

The table below, courtesy of the USDA FoodData Center, has a breakdown of the nutritional analysis based on a serving size of 1 cup (140g) raw Bartlett pear.

Name Amount Measurement
Water 118.0 g
Energy 88.2 kcal
Protein 0.5 g
Total lipid (fat) 0.2 g
Carbohydrate, by difference 21.1 g
Fiber, total dietary 4.3 g
Sugars, Total NLEA 13.6 g
Calcium, Ca 11.2 mg
Iron, Fe 0.2 mg
Magnesium, Mg 8.0 mg
Phosphorus, P 14.0 mg
Potassium, K 122.0 mg
Sodium, Na 9.8 mg
Zinc, Zn 0.1 mg
Copper, Cu 0.098 mg
Manganese, Mn 0.045 mg
Selenium, Se 0.280 µg
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid 6.160 mg
Vitamin B-6 0.036 mg
Folate, total 8.400 µg
Vitamin A, RAE 1.400 µg
Carotene, beta 11.200 µg
Vitamin K (phylloquinone) 5.3 µg
Vitamin B-6 0.2 mg
Vitamin A, IU 11,500.0 IU
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) 0.4 mg
Vitamin D (D2 + D3) 0.0 µg
Vitamin K (phylloquinone) 1.4 µg

What do these nutrients do?

Earlier we gave you a small list of how nutrients specific to pears affect your chickens’ health. Here are some more nutritional facts to help decode the above table.

  • Antioxidants: (Beta Carotene, Lycopene) repair damage from free radicals, fight off/prevent future damage, protect from oxidative damage, anti-inflammatory, lower blood pressure, improve heart health in high enough doses, development and health of tissue, skin, and feathers
  • Vitamin A: eye, skin, respiratory, and digestive health
  • Carotene, Beta (Beta Carotene): egg, feathers, skin, beak, and comb color; converts to Vitamin A
  • Vitamin C: joint, cellular, and immune health; collagen synthesis
  • Calcium: bones and egg shell strength
  • Carbohydrates: give chickens energy
  • Copper: helps digestion and elevates the immune system
  • Vitamin E: immune system support, cell regeneration
  • Fiber: only small amounts or they can become constipated, get a blockage, etc; energy, growth, and digestive health
  • Folate (B Vitamin): folate deficiency; helps blood formation; healthy feathers & size
  • Iron: prevents anemia; assists in blood circulation
  • Vitamin K: blood clotting, bone metabolism
  • Magnesium: bone strength and development, cellular metabolism, heart health, muscle function
  • Manganese: bone development, immune system, breaks down carbs, cholesterol, and amino acids; controls blood sugar
  • Phosphorus: bone formation
  • Potassium: temperature control; hydration & electrolyte regulation, metabolism; heart health/heart disease preventative
  • Protein: muscle growth and development
  • Zinc: immune system and mineral retention

How do you feed pears to chickens?

You can avoid the choking by making sure to cut your pears up before feeding them. A whole pear is soft enough that they will have no problem pecking through it. However, they will not have as much control over the size of the pieces they get and a single pear or two between a flock is going to provoke a lot of peck and run style and eating.

If you want to mix things up a little you can literally mix things up by making a fruit salad or chicken treat medley. Most likely, your chickens aren’t going to really care about clashing flavors so feel free to add in whatever snacks you like. You want to give them some blueberries, blackberries, radishes, rhubarb, and leftover unseasoned rice all stuck together with peanut butter? Go for it! They’re going to love it!

You can also take a mix of treats, like raspberries, peaches, and apples, and string them together with fishing line. Now, hang is somewhere your chickens like to hang out and watch them have one peck of a good time with their new chicken toy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I overfeed my chicken pears?

Just like most things in life, even too much of a good thing can be harmful. As we mentioned earlier, because of the amount of sugar, overfeeding your chickens pears can lead to some health issues like hypoglycemia, obesity, and even sugar addiction.

Q2. Can chicks eat pears?

Technically, yes, but it isn’t a great idea to feed your chicks pears. Keep them on a high quality starter/grower feed until they are a bit older.

Q3. How many pears can I feed to my chickens?

An average size pear, when cut into small chunks or cubes should be able to feed 4 or 5 chickens. The average backyard flock will probably be perfectly happy with one or two pears split between them.

Q3. How often can I feed pears to my chickens?

With the sugar content, we wouldn’t feed our chickens pears more than 3 or 4 times a week and would decrease that if they started to show any signs of poor health. We always advocate for the 90/10 rule when feeding our chickens. All that means is 90% of your chickens’ diet should come from free ranging and a high quality, chicken specific feed; like layer crumbles. The other 10% can then be reserved for other snacks, treats, and supplements.

It is good to mix up their treats, as well. Instead of giving them 4 days of pears, try adding in some cantaloupe, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, or asparagus, to keep things a little more balanced.

Q4. What fruits and vegetables are safe for chickens?

Here are some popular foods that your chickens can eat.

Fruits

  • Apples (not the seeds)
  • Bananas
  • Cantaloupe
  • Cherries
  • Figs
  • Kiwi
  • Peaches
  • Watermelon

Vegetables & Gourdes

  • Asparagus
  • Pumpkin
  • Radish
  • Sweet Potato
  • Tomatoes
  • Yellow Squash
  • Zucchini

Berries

  • Blackberries
  • Blueberries
  • Mountain Ash Berries
  • Mulberries
  • Raspberries
  • Rowan Berries

If you need more help with taking care of your chickens, check out The Organized Chicken Keeper for a complete system for managing their health through keeping their supplies stocked and coop clean.

Access The Organized Chicken Keeper Here

Can Chickens Eat Sweet Potatoes?

By MrAnimal Farm

Raw sweet potatoes on wooden background closeup

At MrAnimal Farm, we can’t get enough sweet potatoes. They are all the starchy, carby goodness of regular potatoes, baked or mashed, but with many more nutrients and much, much healthier. So, will those nutrients cross over to your livestock? Can chickens eat sweet potatoes or will they end up colder than a spud in the fridge?

Keep scrolling to find out if chickens can eat sweet potatoes and what happens if they do!

Raw sweet potatoes on wooden background closeup

In This Article

  • Can Chickens Eat Sweet Potatoes?
    • Are sweet potatoes safe for my chickens to eat?
      • Can chickens eat sweet potato skin?
      • Can chickens eat sweet potato flowers, leaves, or roots?
      • Can chickens eat white potatoes? What about other color potatoes?
    • Are sweet potatoes healthy for chickens?
      • What are the nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes for chickens?
      • What do these nutrients do?
    • Should you feed them cooked or raw?
    • How do you feed sweet potatoes to chickens?
      • Whole or cut?
      • Raw
      • Cooked
    • Frequently Asked Questions
      • Q1. How often can I feed sweet potato to my chickens?
      • Q2. How many sweet potatoes can I feed to my chickens?

Can Chickens Eat Sweet Potatoes?

Yes, chickens can eat sweet potatoes. And, boy, do they love them! In fact, making sweet potatoes a regular part of your chickens weekly diet will help them stay happy and healthy.

Are sweet potatoes safe for my chickens to eat?

Sweet potatoes are 100% safe for your chickens to eat. In fact, at one point in time, sweet potatoes were used in chicken feed and as a supplement.

Feeding highly nutritious treats to your chickens can help them maintain their health and will make their regular health checks go much smoother.

Can chickens eat sweet potato skin?

Yes, chickens can eat sweet potato skin, unlike white potato skins which contain solanine and are toxic. You might be surprised to find out that sweet potatoes are not in the same family as white potatoes and, therefore, do not contain the toxic solanine.

Need some help keeping your chickens health and care taken care of? Check out the Organized Chicken Keeper for an easy to follow system.

Can chickens eat sweet potato flowers, leaves, or roots?

Yes they can eat sweet potato leaves, flowers, roots, as well as stems, and vines, too! The entire sweet potato plant is perfectly safe, nutritious, and delicious for your chickens to eat/

Can chickens eat white potatoes? What about other color potatoes?

You will want to avoid raw potatoes, potatoes with green skin, any part of the potato plant, including the seed pods and even the flowers. Like tomatoes, they are part of the nightshade family and contain solanine, which can be harmful for your chickens.

They also contain some other substances that can affect their heart function, how well they can absorb nutrients, digest their food, and even cause chronic discomfort like itchiness and pain.

Essentially, sweet potatoes are okay but any other kind, whether white, yellow, blue, or red, should be avoided. Technically, the real danger lies with potatoes that have green skin but the others can be harmful, in large quantities.

Are sweet potatoes healthy for chickens?

As we mentioned earlier, sweet potatoes, skin, leaves, roots, and all are a great and healthy snack for your chicken flock. Sweet potatoes are chock full of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients essential to good health.

What are the nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes for chickens?

Below, You’ll find the USDA FoodData Center nutritional analysis on a serving size of 1 small (60 g), baked sweet potato with skin.

Name Amount Measurement
Water 45.500 g
Energy 54.000 kcal
Protein 1.210 g
Fat 0.090 g
Ash 0.810 g
Fiber, total dietary 1.980 g
Sugars, total including NLEA 3.890 g
Calcium, Ca 22.800 mg
Iron, Fe 0.414 mg
Magnesium, Mg 16.200 mg
Phosphorus, P 32.400 mg
Potassium, K 285.000 mg
Sodium, Na 21.600 mg
Zinc, Zn 0.192 mg
Copper, Cu 0.097 mg
Manganese, Mn 0.298 mg
Selenium, Se 0.1 µg
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid 11.8 mg
Vitamin B-6 0.2 mg
Folate, total 3.6 µg
Carotene, beta 6,900.0 µg
Carotene, alpha 25.8 µg
Vitamin A, IU 11,500.0 IU
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) 0.4 mg
Vitamin D (D2 + D3) 0.0 µg
Vitamin K (phylloquinone) 1.4 µg

What do these nutrients do?

If you are interested to know what all of those nutrients listed actually do for your chickens, this list will help give you some more understanding.

  • Vitamin A: eye, skin, respiratory, and digestive health
  • Carbohydrates: give chickens energy
  • Copper: helps digestion and elevates the immune system
  • Vitamin C: joint, cellular, and immune health; collagen synthesis
  • Vitamin D3: improves bone health along with calcium
  • Fiber: only small amounts or they can become constipated, get a blockage, etc; energy, growth, and digestive health
  • Iron: prevents anemia
  • Vitamin K: blood clotting, bone metabolism
  • Magnesium: bone strength and development, cellular metabolism, heart health, muscle function
  • Potassium: temperature control; hydration & electrolyte regulation, metabolism; heart health/heart disease preventative
  • Protein: muscle growth and development
  • Starch: assists with digestion & energy
  • Zinc: immune system and mineral retention

Should you feed them cooked or raw?

The truth is, chickens will eat them either way. Our personal recommendation is to cook them, ideally boiled, which we will get to in a moment, as cooked sweet potatoes are much softer and much, much easier for your chickens to eat.

How do you feed sweet potatoes to chickens?

Your choices really break down to raw or cooked and whole or cut/sliced/diced. Let’s look at the options.

Whole or cut?

Regardless of if you cook your sweet potatoes first or leave them raw, we recommend cutting them up before giving them to your chickens. Cutting them into slices or dice will make it a lot easier for them to break up and eat. Plus, when cut into small pieces, you can scatter a single potato in a much larger area and avoid any chickens fighting over a single sweet potato.

Raw

Raw sweet potatoes are perfectly fine for chickens to eat. They are going to be tough for them to break up, though. You can help them out a little by cutting them up first, but even then, your chickens will have a difficult time eating and may even be at risk of choking.

Cooked

There are actually several different ways to make cooked sweet potatoes for your chickens; boiled, baked, roasted, or fried.

Boiled

Boiling sweet potatoes is our favorite method of preparation when feeding them to our chickens. The reason is because it’s really easy to do. Just cut your sweet potato into cubes and put them in a pot of boiling water; 12-15 minutes for 1″ cubes and 20-25 minutes for 2″ cubes.

When they’re finished, just toss the cubes to your chickens, spread out so they don’t dog pile on each other, and watch them enjoy.

Additionally, you can also mash the sweet potatoes after boiling them and serve them that way. However, that can get unnecessarily messy AND adds in an extra step. We just wanted to give you the option but we don’t think it’s a very practical way to feed your chickens.

Baked

Baked sweet potato is probably the most common way they are prepared. They have all the same advantages of boiled except, it’s a whole potato which does not spread as far, baking generally takes longer than boiling, and, can sometimes, caramelize in the oven.

If your sweet potatoes caramelize, make sure to remove those pieces before giving them to your chickens. The extra concentration of sugar can be too much of a sugar overload and make your chickens feel really bad.

Roasted

Roasted is like a combination of boiling and baking. Since you typically cut them into cubes before cooking them, they will be soft enough for your chickens to eat. They do, however, run the same risk of caramelization that baking does, so be on the lookout for that. And, roasting will likely take longer than boiling.

If you do decide to roast them, only roast the sweet potatoes. Skip grandma’s secret recipe and don’t use any seasonings.

Fried

We added this here to address things like sweet potato fries. While, they likely won’t hurt them if they just have a single fry, we still do not recommend it. Fried sweet potatoes are going to have way too much fat and generally have a lot of salt on them too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How often can I feed sweet potato to my chickens?

We recommend between 3 to 5 times a week, if it’s a regular treat. Generally, we stick to making 10% of a chicken’s diet snacks and treats while the other 90% should be quality feed and bugs, insects, and stuff like that. However, sweet potatoes have been used as a supplemental feed in the past. You can likely get away with feeding sweet potatoes more often than, say, watermelon, cantaloupe, or radishes.

Q2. How many sweet potatoes can I feed to my chickens?

If you cut them into cubes, a single sweet potato can feed around 5 chickens, give or take a chicken. Obviously, this is just a guideline and you will know for sure once you feed them the first time.

If you need more help with taking care of your chickens, check out The Organized Chicken Keeper for a complete system for managing their health through keeping their supplies stocked and coop clean.

Access The Organized Chicken Keeper Here

Can Chickens Eat Asparagus?

By MrAnimal Farm

fresh asparagus on cutting board with knife

Asparagus is one of those vegetables that you either love it or you hate it. We fall firmly on the loving it side of the divide (in spite of some of it’s…aromatic drawbacks). It’s great grilled and one of the healthiest, not to mention easiest, crops you can grow. So, do any of those benefits ring true for your chickens too? Can chickens eat asparagus or will this snack just turn into one, big, stinky mess?

Let’s dive in and see!

fresh asparagus on cutting board with knife

In This Article

  • Can Chickens Eat Asparagus?
    • Types of asparagus
      • Green asparagus
      • White asparagus
      • Purple asparagus
    • Is asparagus safe for my chickens to eat?
    • What about canned asparagus?
    • Is asparagus healthy for chickens?
      • What are the nutritional benefits of asparagus for chickens?
      • What do these nutrients do?
    • How do you feed asparagus to chickens?
      • Raw
      • Cooked
    • Frequently Asked Questions
      • Q1. Can I overfeed my chicken asparagus?
      • Q2. How much asparagus can I feed to my chickens?
      • Q3. How often can I feed asparagus to my chickens?
      • Q4. Can I feed asparagus to my chicks?

Can Chickens Eat Asparagus?

Yes, chickens can eat asparagus. It may take them a little bit of time to test it out, but once they do, they will absolutely love it! Which is fantastic because asparagus is chock full of life giving nutrients that every chicken needs to live a long, happy, and healthy life.

Healthy treats are important in keeping your chickens in tip top shape, so adding asparagus to their diet is a good idea.

Types of asparagus

We all know of asparagus as the long, thin stalks we’ve seen bundled with a rubber band. Some of us know it only by it’s reputation for making certain functions have a very strong distinct smell. In fact, that same phenomenon plays a bit of a role in how much or how often you should feed your chickens asparagus.

But, did you know that asparagus is not only found as the traditional green veggie we all think of? There are actually quite a few different, and colorful, varieties.

Source: https://www.thespruceeats.com/white-vs-green-asparagus-1807065

Different colors can indicate different nutrients. So, you may want to think about feeding your chicken some foods with other colors as well like orange sweet potatoes, and red tomatoes.

Need some help keeping your chickens health and care taken care of? Check out the Organized Chicken Keeper for an easy to follow system.

Green asparagus

This is the most common and healthiest asparagus and the kind you will most likely give your chickens. You will likely find this in just about any produce department in any grocery store you walk into. It is also widely available. It’s darker green color is a sign, like with broccoli and zucchini, that it is packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and overall general healthy goodness.

White asparagus

You may have never seen white asparagus before. It is almost identical to green asparagus except it is just pure white. It is not nearly as common as green asparagus but will offer most of the same nutrients. One interesting thing is that it gets it’s color, or lack thereof, by being grown underground in complete darkness. The lack of chlorophyll, from sunlight, gives it a more bitter flavor than either other type of asparagus.

White asparagus is still a healthy treat for your chickens but it is not quite as nutrient rich as green and is much more difficult to find.

Purple asparagus

This is, by far, the coolest looking asparagus. It is only grown during a small time frame during the year and is a deep, rich purple due to the presence of anthocyanins, the same thing that give blueberries their color. Purple asparagus is also the sweetest of the three strains due to it having “20% more” sugar content than white or green asparagus.

While it’s not nearly as sweet as a peach, cantaloupe, cranberries, or raisins, it’s probably best to stick with green over purple due to the sugar content.

Is asparagus safe for my chickens to eat?

Asparagus is completely safe for your chickens to eat. We will get into some of the specific nutrients asparagus offers your chickens in a just a bit. What we will say right now is that asparagus is one of the most hydrating snacks you can give your flock. So, not only is asparagus safe, but it can actually help your chicken stay hydrated when the weather is really hot.

While asparagus does contain a tiny bit of oxalic acid, it’s nowhere near the levels that something like rhubarb is and therefore is perfectly fine. In fact, chickens can eat rhubarb also, but must avoid the leaves where that high oxalic acid content is.

What about canned asparagus?

We do not recommend feeding your chickens canned asparagus. The asparagus will typically still have the same nutrients, however, usually they have way too much sodium. Salt is used as a preservative which is essential in canning asparagus for commercial use.

Is asparagus healthy for chickens?

Asparagus is incredibly healthy for your chickens. They contain a whole host of vitamins, like Vitamin A, B6, C, E, and K, and minerals, like calcium, copper, fiber, selenium, and zinc.

What are the nutritional benefits of asparagus for chickens?

Below, You’ll find the USDA FoodData Center nutritional analysis on a serving size of 1 cup (134g) of raw asparagus.

Name Amount Measurements
Water 125.0 g
Energy 26.8 kcal
Protein 3.0 g
Fat 0.2 g
Carbohydrate 5.2 g
Fiber, total dietary 2.8 g
Sugars 2.5 g
Calcium, Ca 32.2 mg
Iron, Fe 2.9 mg
Magnesium, Mg 18.8 mg
Phosphorus, P 69.7 mg
Potassium, K 271.0 mg
Sodium, Na 2.7 mg
Zinc, Zn 0.7 mg
Copper, Cu 0.3 mg
Manganese, Mn 0.2 mg
Selenium, Se 3.1 µg
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid 7.5 mg
Vitamin B-6 0.1 mg
Folate, total 69.7 µg
Carotene, beta 602.0 µg
Carotene, alpha 12.1 µg
Vitamin A, IU 1,010.0 IU
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) 1.5 mg
Vitamin K (phylloquinone) 55.7 µg

What do these nutrients do?

Here are what some of those nutrients mentioned above do to keep your chicken’s body running right.

  • Antioxidants: (Beta Carotene, Lycopene) repair damage from free radicals, fight off/prevent future damage, protect from oxidative damage, anti-inflammatory, lower blood pressure, improve heart health in high enough doses, development and health of tissue, skin, and feathers
  • Vitamin A: eye, skin, respiratory, and digestive health
  • Vitamin B6: healthy blood vessels, eye/vision health, nervous system , immune system
  • Calcium: bones and egg shell strength
  • Carbohydrates: give chickens energy
  • Copper: helps digestion and elevates the immune system
  • Vitamin C: joint, cellular, and immune health; collagen synthesis
  • Vitamin E: immune system support, cell regeneration
  • Fiber: only small amounts or they can become constipated, get a blockage, etc; energy, growth, and digestive health
  • Folate (B Vitamin): folate deficiency; helps blood formation; healthy feathers & size
  • Iron: prevents anemia
  • Vitamin K: blood clotting, bone metabolism
  • Magnesium: bone strength and development, cellular metabolism, heart health, muscle function
  • Potassium: temperature control; hydration & electrolyte regulation, metabolism; heart health/heart disease preventative
  • Protein: muscle growth and development
  • Selenium: Boosts their immune system and helps with over nutrient balance in selenium deficient areas (most of the US)
  • Zinc: immune system and mineral retention

How do you feed asparagus to chickens?

Feeding your chickens asparagus is pretty easy. Your options essentially break down to raw or cooked. Let’s look at the benefits and drawbacks of either method.

Raw

If you want to go with the low effort, simple, one and done way, just throw some raw asparagus where your flock gathers to eat. If they have never had asparagus before it may take them some time to try tit out. But, eventually, one brave cluck will, no doubt, mosey over and start pecking away, thus, triggering an entire feathered cavalcade of beak happy chickens.

A few problems can arise in that scenario. If there is not enough asparagus to go around, the chickens may start fighting which can lead to injuries. Another, sometimes related, issue is asparagus is pretty hard. Because it’s so tough, and chickens may be in a rush to peck and run with their food, it can quickly become a choking hazard.

Cooked

Cooked asparagus is, in our opinion, a much better option. It will take a little bit longer but you don’t have to do anything fancy. Simply boiling them will soften them up enough to make them easier to eat and digest.

Some of the same problems from above will still apply with either raw or cooked asparagus. They can still choke but cooked asparagus is a little less likely since it’s softer. The way we are able to cut down either of those things from happening?

It’s easy. Just cut the asparagus up into small, chicken bite sized pieces. This way you can scatter a much larger area so each chicken will get some and be less likely to fight. And the smaller pieces are easier to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I overfeed my chicken asparagus?

Yes, you can give them too much asparagus. Will it hurt them? It isn’t likely but it can throw off their dietary balance. We like to stick to the 90/10 rule when giving our chickens treats, snacks, or supplementary food.

Basically, 90% of your chickens’ diet should come from a high quality chicken feed and supplemented with whatever they catch when free ranging. The other 10% of your chickens’ diet can be any number of special treats like rice, peanuts, figs, radishes, tomatoes, or bananas.

Q2. How much asparagus can I feed to my chickens?

We recommend not feeding asparagus to your chickens more than 3 or 4 times a week. On top of it possibly throwing off the balance of their diet, another consequence of unfettered asparagus consumption is it can start to taint the flavor of their eggs.

Some people claim it doesn’t at all while others claim a single feeding will do it. This is most likely due to the asparagusic acid found in asparagus. It’s the same compound that makes your pee smell and can also give eggs a bit of a sulfur flavor.

Q3. How often can I feed asparagus to my chickens?

Stick to the 90/10 rule for feeding and only give your chickens asparagus 2 to 4 times a week. If you notice a change in the flavor of their eggs, reduce the number of times per week or stop giving it to them altogether.

Q4. Can I feed asparagus to my chicks?

Asparagus should be safe for your chicks to eat. However, like with any treat, only feed it sparingly and make sure it is small and soft enough for them to eat easily. We tend to not give chicks any treats or snacks outside of their normal starter/grower feed until they are a bit older.

If you need more help with taking care of your chickens, check out The Organized Chicken Keeper for a complete system for managing their health through keeping their supplies stocked and coop clean.

Access The Organized Chicken Keeper Here

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