Chickens indoors?

[earthnut]

Has anyone kept chickens indoors? I had lots of parakeets growing up, and was wondering about keeping chickens indoors. They're messy, but so are parrots and parakeets. I've heard they smell too much. Is it really that bad or were they just not cared for properly?

 

[schmoo]

I think there are a few members on here that keep them indoors. I'm sure it's more work than keeping them outside. They sure do make a mess.

 

[greginshasta]

Search on diapers and you will find posts by folks who keep their girls inside, or at least allow them in for periods of time.

 

[earthnut]

Haha! diapers! That would make DH happier about them being inside. We let the parakeets just poop, but it was small and not too bad to clean up. Used towels on their favorite perches. I'm sure chicken poo is bigger!

Is it wetter, too?

 

[2mnypets]

That all depends if they are stressed or not. Usually no. If you are interested in chicken diapers you can find them at www.chickendiapers.com I bought one even though my hubby just looked at me and shook his head. Guess what though. He's not shaking his head now when we have to doctor or separate one for a little while. At least while they are in the house, the house stays clean.

 

[chickengirlnm]

well i have a lovebird and a quaker parrot inside and they make a huge mess ! feathers go flying when my lovebird wants to "fly" while sitting firmly on her perch and if i give her a new food she gets half of it on the floor before she says ok i will eat this now- so as far as keeping my chickens inside -- i love them all dearly but no thanks they have thier own house to poop in LOL

 

[earthnut]

Well I'm glad you guys don't think it's totally crazy.

My mom bred parakeets, but when I wanted to get some indoor banties both my parents thought I was totally nuts. The people at the local chicken meetup too, thought I was crazy. I'll get some diapers and show them!

I have a yard now, so they'll probably only be indoor visitors here, but I gotta think of the future! What if we move to an apartment or condo? Once I get birds, I don't think I'm gonna wanna give them up! (don't tell hubby!

) I'll just tell the apartment manager I have "exotic junglefowl"!

For an even crazier dream... I've even thought about getting an RV and living in it full time while travelling. I've seen coop trailers, but I think it'd be better to have the chickens indoors and reserve the trailer for the goat.