When the authorities impose a housing order, your chickens are usually no longer allowed to roam freely outside. Exactly which rules then apply differs by country and region; check them with the authority that introduces the measure. For chickens that are used to foraging, it is a big change. This selection helps keep them busy and keep the coop clean: peck blocks from Lax and Excellent, the Kerbl Snack Ball, the Hentastic Fun Feeder, the Gaun Chicken Swing, a hay rack from Kerbl and disinfection mats in four sizes.
Work for the beak
A chicken normally spends a large part of the day searching and pecking. If that falls away, the behaviour looks for another outlet, sometimes on the other chickens. So give them something to do:
- Peck block: the Lax peck block made from meadow hay and the Excellent layer block with calcium give them something to peck at.
- Snack ball or Fun Feeder: fill them with grain or vegetables; the opening of the Kerbl Snack Ball can be set to three positions.
- Hay rack: hang hay, lucerne or vegetables in it, so the chickens have to pull and pluck.
- Swing and extra perch: more levels in the coop give lower-ranking hens a place to move away to.
Vary things and move toys around every few days; what is new attracts the most attention. Also scatter some grain in the litter now and then, so they can scratch.
Hygiene at the entrance
A disinfection mat at the entrance is a standard hygiene measure: you step through it with your shoes before entering the coop or run. The small 55 x 45 cm mat suits a hobby coop, the 85 x 60 and 90 x 60 cm mats a wider door and the 180 x 90 cm mat a stable door. Fill the mat with a disinfectant according to the label and keep it moist. Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use. Wear dedicated boots or overshoes in the coop.
What else to look out for
Less space means litter gets wet and dirty sooner. Change it more often and provide enough drinking and feeding points, so the lowest-ranking hens can get to them too. If you see sick chickens or sudden deaths, contact your vet.
See also: peck blocks and chicken toys, bedding and coop hygiene, disinfecting and cleaning, drinkers, feeders and everything for your chickens.
Frequently asked questions
How do I keep chickens busy indoors?
Combine a peck block that stays in place with a snack ball or hay rack that you fill daily. Move and swap the toys regularly.
What size disinfection mat do I need?
Choose a mat as wide as the door, so nobody can step around it. For a small coop, 55 x 45 cm is enough.
Can my chickens stay in a covered run?
That is decided by the authority that imposes the housing order. Check the current rules before you choose between coop and covered run.