- 1). Include greens in the chickens' diet. Incorporate them through grass shavings, weeds and vegetables chopped very small.
- 2). Include living, whole grains. Many feeds include kennelled grains because they are less expensive and less susceptible to spoiling. The closer grains are to their natural form, the better they are for the birds. Oats, barley, wheat, alfalfa and rye are all excellent additions to your chickens' diet.
- 3). Include protein. In summer, chickens get enough protein from pecking for bugs and worms. In cooler weather, add extra protein to their diet by purchasing worms and bugs from pet or feed stores. Soybeans are a good source of protein for chickens, too.
- 4). Provide water. This water is not intended to be mixed with the food, but provided as part of a balanced diet. Because chickens can be lazy, place water dishes inside the coop and outside so when thirst hits, they don't have to go far to quench it.
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