Can You Share Christmas Cookies with Chickens? A Safety Guide

As tempting as it might be to share festive treats, Christmas (or any other) cookies are not suitable for chickens. These sugary snacks often contain high amounts of sugar, butter, and other ingredients like chocolate, raisins, or spices that are harmful to chickens. Chocolate, in particular, is toxic to chickens due to theobromine, and even small amounts can cause serious health issues. Similarly, raisins and certain nuts can pose risks.

Even cookies without obviously harmful ingredients aren’t a good idea. The high sugar and fat content can lead to obesity, digestive upset, and other health problems in chickens. Additionally, the refined flour offers little to no nutritional value, making cookies an unhealthy choice overall. Chickens thrive on a balanced diet, so it’s best to skip the holiday desserts altogether.

In short, all cookies are a no-go for your flock. Stick to safe, healthy treats like fresh fruits or vegetables to keep your chickens happy and healthy throughout the holiday season.