PlantBetter

Plants dangerous to chickens

Free-range hens peck at greens and seeds. Most avoid bitter plants, but bored or hungry birds may not.

Chickens

Warning signs: Lethargy, diarrhea, drop in laying, drooping wings.

If you suspect poisoning: remove any plant material, keep a sample, and call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 immediately.

11 plants to keep away from chickens

  • Avocado (leaves, pit, skin)

    Severe

    Persin causes heart damage and respiratory distress.

  • Deadly nightshade

    Severe

    Tropane alkaloids cause dilated pupils, rapid heart rate and seizures.

  • Rhubarb leaves

    Severe

    Oxalic acid causes kidney damage and tremors.

  • Foxglove

    Severe

    Cardiac glycosides cause heart arrhythmia and collapse.

  • Oleander

    Severe

    Cardiac glycosides disrupt heart rhythm; can be fatal in small amounts.

  • Yew

    Severe

    Taxine alkaloids cause sudden heart failure.

  • Azalea & rhododendron

    Severe

    Grayanotoxins cause vomiting, weakness, abnormal heart rhythm.

  • Tobacco

    Severe

    Nicotine causes tremors, rapid heart rate and collapse.

  • Potato (green parts & sprouts)

    Moderate

    Solanine causes vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy.

  • Tomato plant (leaves & stems)

    Moderate

    Solanine causes digestive upset and weakness.

  • Daffodil

    Moderate

    Bulbs cause vomiting, drooling and, in large amounts, heart problems.

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General information only, not veterinary advice. Toxicity varies with the amount eaten and the animal's size.