Do Chickens Need Daily Cuddles And Attention?

[OhZark Biddies]

I'm not a chicken cuddler, in fact I generally only handle them when needed... but I was wondering sort of the same question earlier today, because I have one faverolle hen who is so pet like that when I'm doing something in the run, she's always just right there, looking up at me batting her eyes, even when the rest of them have lost interest, she's there looking at me like: "whatchya doin?"

So I was thinking to myself, I wonder if she actually needs more "pet attention" than just the "chicken attention" I give the rest of them. She just seems to want more interaction... or maybe she's just playing up the cuteness thing to get more treats?

She's certainly different in this way than all other chickens I've been around in the past, and the other faverolles I have now as far as "personality", that is for certain.

 

[MissChick@dee]

I handle my chickens a lot when they are young. I spend a lot of time outside with them. They hop up and ask for affection. I will do mock inspections, meaning spreading wings, lifting legs, checking them all over. To me this is vital! I live 3hrs away from any type of vet services. I do my own doctoring. Stress alone can kill a bird. So when I need to treat a wound they are calmer and trust what I am doing. That’s the practical side of it. The other side is I just love my chickens and I want sweet Pets so others can enjoy them too.

 

[OhZark Biddies]

I will do mock inspections, meaning spreading wings, lifting legs, checking them all over. ...

Ahhh, I'm familiar with this for foals, calves, and even puppies, as part of conditioning them to be handled later in life, but never even thought about it with chickens. Makes a lot sense though.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Oh I do pick up my chickens for inspections and such (good way to spot potential issues before they become problems) but I can't say most of them appreciate my efforts!

 

[KentuckyRooster]

All chickens should be accustomed to handling to a degree they can be doctored, even if they are not pets or show animals.