Backyard chicken keepers often share feed between animals to save money, which raises the question: can chickens eat horse feed? The answer is yes, chickens can peck at horse feed, but it is not recommended as a main diet. Horse feed is designed for large herbivores, not poultry, and it lacks the proper protein, calcium, and nutrient balance chickens need to produce eggs and stay healthy.
While an occasional snack won’t harm your flock, horse feed should never replace a proper layer ration. Luckily, there are affordable, chicken-specific feeds and treats that will keep your hens healthy, productive, and safe. In this guide, we’ll explain why horse feed isn’t ideal and review the best safe alternatives.
Quick Picks: Best Alternatives to Horse Feed for Chickens
- Best Overall: Purina Layena Crumbles – A complete 16% protein layer feed for consistent egg production.
- Best Budget: Whole Oats for Poultry – Cheap bulk grain that adds safe variety.
- Best Premium: Grubblies Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae – A high-protein, calcium-rich insect treat for stronger eggs.
Buyer’s Guide: Horse Feed and Chickens
Here’s what you should know before letting your flock near horse feed:
- Protein Balance: Horse feed doesn’t have enough protein for egg-laying hens.
- Calcium Deficiency: Horses don’t need much calcium, but chickens require it for strong eggshells.
- Formulation: Horse pellets may be too large or hard for chickens to swallow safely.
- Treat Only: A few pecks won’t hurt, but horse feed should never replace chicken feed.
- Better Alternatives: Choose poultry-specific feed mixes designed to support health and productivity.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Purina Layena Crumbles
Who it’s for: Chicken keepers wanting a dependable, complete daily feed instead of horse feed.
Key Benefits:
- 16% protein formula
- Balanced calcium for eggshell strength
- Trusted Purina quality
Pros:
- Readily available nationwide
- Safe for all laying hens
- Much better than horse rations
Cons:
- Not organic
- Contains soy
Final Verdict: A balanced daily diet far superior to horse feed. Check price on Amazon.
2. Whole Oats for Poultry
Who it’s for: Budget-conscious owners who want a cheap supplement instead of horse pellets.
Key Benefits:
- Affordable bulk grain
- Encourages scratching and pecking
- Easier for chickens to digest than horse pellets
Pros:
- Cheap in bulk
- Natural and simple
- Chickens enjoy them
Cons:
- Not a full diet
- Lower protein than insects
Final Verdict: A safe budget alternative to horse feed. Check price on Amazon.
3. Grubblies Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Who it’s for: Owners seeking premium protein and calcium supplementation.
Key Benefits:
- High in protein for feather health
- Extra calcium for stronger shells
- Sustainable and natural
Pros:
- Chickens love the taste
- Supports healthy egg production
- Safer than horse rations
Cons:
- Premium price
- Not a complete feed
Final Verdict: A top protein and calcium-rich treat. Check price on Amazon.
4. Kalmbach Feeds All Natural Layer Crumbles
Who it’s for: Owners wanting an all-natural daily feed.
Key Benefits:
- All-natural ingredients
- Protein and calcium balanced for hens
- Supports overall health and productivity
Pros:
- Safer than feeding horse feed
- Boosts strong egg production
- Convenient crumble form
Cons:
- More costly than horse feed
- Must be stored properly
Final Verdict: A safe, balanced alternative. Check price on Amazon.
5. Manna Pro Harvest Delight Poultry Treat
Who it’s for: Keepers wanting a safe treat mix instead of horse feed leftovers.
Key Benefits:
- Mix of grains, seeds, and dried vegetables
- Encourages natural pecking
- Nutritious variety
Pros:
- Safer than horse grain
- Fun for enrichment
- Boosts yolk color
Cons:
- Not a complete diet
- Costs more than free horse feed
Final Verdict: A healthy treat alternative. Check price on Amazon.
6. Small Pet Select Organic Scratch Grains
Who it’s for: Owners who want organic enrichment instead of unsafe horse feed.
Key Benefits:
- Organic corn, wheat, and barley
- Encourages scratching and pecking
- Safe and GMO-free
Pros:
- Certified organic
- Fun enrichment for chickens
- Much safer than horse feed
Cons:
- Not a complete diet
- More expensive than bulk horse feed
Final Verdict: A safe, organic enrichment treat. Check price on Amazon.
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Specs/Capacity | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purina Layena Crumbles | 16% protein daily feed | 40 lb bag | Check Price |
| Whole Oats | Budget bulk grain | 50 lb bag | Check Price |
| Grubblies Black Soldier Fly | Protein + calcium treat | 5 lb bag | Check Price |
| Kalmbach Layer Crumbles | All-natural layer feed | 50 lb bag | Check Price |
| Manna Pro Harvest Delight | Grain & veggie mix | 2.5 lb bag | Check Price |
| Organic Scratch Grains | Organic corn, wheat, barley | 25 lb bag | Check Price |
FAQ: Chickens and Horse Feed
1. Can chickens eat horse feed?
Yes, but only as an occasional snack. It’s not balanced for poultry and should not replace chicken feed.
2. Is horse grain dangerous for chickens?
No, but it lacks enough protein and calcium, which can harm egg production over time.
3. Can chicks eat horse feed?
No. Chicks need starter feed with the right protein and vitamins for growth.
4. Why shouldn’t I use horse feed for chickens?
It’s formulated for herbivores, not omnivores like chickens. It won’t meet their nutritional needs.
5. What’s better than horse feed for chickens?
Use poultry-specific layer feed, scratch grains, mealworms, or forage mixes.
Conclusion
So, can chickens eat horse feed? Yes, but it’s not recommended. While it won’t poison your flock, it lacks the protein and calcium needed for healthy egg production and long-term vitality. Chickens thrive best on balanced poultry feed, with safe treats and enrichment options.
If you want to keep your flock healthy, avoid relying on horse feed and instead choose safe alternatives like those listed above. Your hens will thank you with stronger eggs and better health.
Special Guide for Coop Owners
Feeding your flock correctly is just one step to successful chicken keeping. For a complete system, we recommend:
Backyard Eggs: The #1 Guide in the US
- Step-by-step coop building instructions
- Noise and smell control tips
- Beginner-friendly flock routines
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