Raising chickens can be an immensely rewarding pursuit. These delightful birds provide fresh eggs, natural pest control, and can even serve as pets with larger-than-life personalities. However, just as important as choosing the right breed or providing a safe coop is the selection of chicken coop accessories.
These accessories can enhance the comfort and health of your flock and simplify your daily routines. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to choose the best chicken coop accessories, considering factors like functionality, safety, and the happiness of your chickens.
Chicken Coop Accessories
| Image | Name | Rating | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
 | RUN-CHICKEN Automatic Door |  | |
 | AutoFowl feeder & Water System | | |
 | Chick Stand | |
RUN-CHICKEN Door Automatic Chicken Coop Door
The RUN-CHICKEN Door Automatic Chicken Coop Door is a great addition to any backyard flock owner. It simplifies the process of caring for your chickens by automating the opening and closing of the chicken run or coop door.
This product stands out due to its ease of installation, which requires no complicated wiring or cabling. The battery-operated design offers up to 1 year of battery life, ensuring continuous use even in harsh weather conditions such as extreme temperatures ( -15°F to 140°F) and rain. Programming the door is also uncomplicated with both manual push-button options and an app interface for more customized setting control, eliminating the need to physically open and close the coop each time.
AutoFowl feeder & Water System
For your chicken coop’s feeding needs, the Chicken Feeder and Chicken Waterer Set (3 Gallon/26 Pounds) is a functional choice. This set includes both a 3-gallon waterer and a 26-pound feeder, allowing you to provide up to 10 chickens with food and water for about a week without needing to replenish.
This product features multiple installation methods – hanging with hooks, fixed screws, or mounting bracket – that allow for flexibility based on your preferred environment. It also includes lids for both components which helps keep them accessible from rainy days to sunnier ones. The placement of the ports close to the bottom minimizes waste and provides an efficient feeding experience for chickens as well.
Chick Stand
The PETSFIT Square Chicken Roosting Perch is a great addition to any backyard poultry setup due to its unique square design which prevents rotation and minimizes stress on the chicken’s feet. This coop accessory features a flat surface with a larger base area, providing chickens with solid support as they roost.
This sturdy and durable perch, made from premium galvanized iron pipes and solid wood, is easy to clean and assemble, making it a convenient choice for backyard farmers. Its compact size of 55’L x 40’W allows for optimal space usage while offering ample room for exercise and entertainment. Overall, the PETSFIT Square Chicken Roosting Perch is an essential accessory that will provide chickens with a safe and healthy place to perched and play.
Poultry Pal Tub
For anyone looking to provide their chickens with a clean and healthy bathing environment, we recommend checking out the Chicken Dust Bath Tub. Made from sturdy high-density board and strong eco-friendly PVC material, this bath tub is built to last and comfortable for up to 10 birds at once.
This versatile product is not just limited to chicken coops – it’s also suitable for other pets like cats, dogs, ducks, and more. The foldable design makes storage and transportation a cinch, while the drainage outlet ensures water can be easily removed. With its space-saving dimensions and multi-functional use, this bath tub is an essential accessory for any poultry keeper or pet owner.
FowlFeeder
The Professional Chicken Waterer Cups seems like a solid investment for your coop’s water supply system. Its leakproof design ensures that your birds have access to clean water at all times, thanks to the rubber sealing washer included with each cup.
This product is more than just a chicken water feeder – it’s suitable for other poultry and pets such as ducks, geese, turkeys, quails, and rabbits. Its easy installation and cleaning process makes maintenance a breeze, while its high-quality PVC material guarantees durability. If you’re not satisfied with the product’s performance, the manufacturer has got your back with a quality guarantee.
SolarVento
This DC HOUSE 20W Solar Powered Dual Metal Shell Exhaust Fan Kit is a great addition to any chicken coop, greenhouse, shed, pet house, or window that needs ventilation. The kit comes with two metal shell fans that can expel hot air and let cool air in, effectively reducing indoor temperature and humidity.
The solar-powered design makes it easy to use as there’s no need for mains power or extra wiring work. Plus, the plug-and-play system means you just need to connect the fan to the solar panel through a waterproof connector. Just be aware that the fan’s speed is greatly affected by sunlight, so it may slow down or stop working when the light is weak. It also doesn’t have a built-in battery, meaning it only works during the daytime. Installation requires some basic tools and self-tapping screws.
PoultryPort
Are you tired of constantly refilling your chicken’s feed? The OverEZ Chicken Feeder is here to simplify your life! This large capacity feeder holds a whopping 50 pounds of feed, which means only needing to refill every few weeks. Perfect for managing the needs of multiple hens without breaking the bank or wasting time.
This durable, BPA-free feeder can withstand any weather condition and can be used both indoors and outdoors. The three feeding ports are designed to prevent chickens from spilling feed, ensuring there’s less waste and a cleaner coop. Plus, with easy cleaning and maintenance capabilities, you’ll love how convenient this feeder is!
Eaton Coop Mats
When it comes to providing the best experience for your laying hens, consider investing in the Eaton Pet and Pasture Premium Laying Hen Nesting Pads. These high-quality nesting pads are made from 100% sustainably harvested aspen excelsior, ensuring a soft and comfortable surface for your chickens to lay their eggs.
The features of these nesting pads make them an excellent addition to any chicken coop. They’re designed to minimize egg breakage, making it easier to collect clean eggs with each pass. The moisture-wicking properties of the aspen fibers in the nesting pads also help maintain a fresher and cleaner environment for your hens, which is beneficial for their health and well-being. As a result, you’ll have less maintenance to worry about, allowing you to focus on caring for your flock.
Chicken Shoveler Pro
Here’s a two-paragraph product recommendation for ‘3 in 1 Stretchable Chicken Poop Scooper’:
The 3 in 1 Stretchable Chicken Poop Scooper is a must-have accessory for anyone maintaining a chicken coop.
This adjustable length scooper makes it easy to reach all corners of your coop, and its sturdy construction withstands the rigors of daily use. The tool also features a hollow bottom design that allows for quick separation of droppings from sand, making clean-up a breeze.
We highly recommend this product for its labor-saving design and ease of cleaning. With the 3 in 1 Stretchable Chicken Poop Scooper, you can focus on other aspects of your chicken’s care while keeping their coop hygienic and healthy. Its adjustable handle makes it suitable for different coop configurations, ensuring that you get the most out of this essential accessory<.p>
Aspen Nest Mats
This product, Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes, seems like a solid choice for chicken coop owners. The fact that these pads are made from sustainably sourced aspen excelsior is a definite plus, especially for those who prioritize environmental responsibility.
The included features and benefits of this product make it a practical addition to any hen house or co-op setup. The nest box pads allow for easy cleaning and egg retrieval, reducing the mess and effort required for maintaining a clean and healthy nesting area. Furthermore, the excelsior fibers facilitate airflow, keeping the area dry and helping to prevent bacterial growth – all of which is great news for happy hens and reduced maintenance.
OysterBoost
If you’re looking to supplement your laying hens’ diet with an extra source of calcium, the Manna Pro Crushed Oyster Shell Calcium Supplement is worth considering. This product is specifically designed for laying poultry and provides essential nutrients for eggshell formation.
With its combination of crushed oyster shells and coral calcium, this supplement offers a high-quality source of easily digestible calcium that can be added to chicken feed or fed as a treat. The product is made in the USA with heat treated ingredients to ensure purity and cleanliness, making it a safe choice for your flock. At 5 pounds, this item offers a decent quantity and should last for several weeks depending on your bird’s dietary needs.
FowlFunCoop
If you’re looking for ways to spice up your chicken’s daily routine and provide them with some much-needed mental and physical stimulation, consider adding these longer chain chicken toys to their coop. Our 7-piece set includes a variety of interactive toys that cater to different aspects of a chicken’s natural behavior, from pecking and scratching to climbing and exploring.
This comprehensive set features two chicken swings, one chicken xylophone, one chicken pecking toy, one mirror with bells, and two hanging chicken feeders. Each item is designed to be durable and safe for your chickens to play with, and the natural wood construction ensures that they can withstand scratching and pecking. With easy installation chains and hooks, you can hang these toys in most coop sizes without any hassle. From keeping them engaged and active to providing a source of fun entertainment, our chicken toys are perfect for enhancing their well-being and happiness.
SunKeepers
The Dusk to Dawn Solar Light Bulbs for Indoor Home and Chicken Coop is a convenient solution for ensuring your coop stays well-lit during the night. These solar-powered light bulbs can be charged through their built-in solar panels, making them an environmentally friendly choice.
We recommend these bulbs for their variety of lighting modes. With four different settings to choose from – high brightness, medium brightness, low brightness, and auto on/off – you can customize the lighting to your preference. The auto on/off mode is particularly handy, as it automatically turns the lights on at night and off after 8 hours, saving energy and providing peace of mind. Each bulb covers about 100 square feet, making them suitable for small to medium-sized coops.
Understanding Your Flock’s Needs
Before diving into the accessories market, it’s essential to understand your flock’s specific needs. Different chicken breeds have varying requirements for space, nesting, and social interaction. First, assess the size of your coop and the number of chickens you’re raising. A basic rule of thumb is to allow about 4 square feet per bird inside the coop, but a larger space is always better for health and well-being.
Temperament of Your Chickens
Certain breeds are more docile than others, and this may influence the type of accessories you choose. If your flock is prone to pecking or has a more aggressive temperament, you may prioritize accessories that promote peace and reduce stress. For example, consider setting up multiple feeding stations to minimize competition during mealtime.
Age and Size
Chickens of different ages require different accessories. If your flock includes chicks, they will need heat lamps and chick feeders while adults will require nesting boxes and roosting bars. As the chicks grow, you may need to make adjustments to accommodate their needs. Keep these factors in mind as you assess what you’ll need for your coop.
Essential Accessories for Your Chicken Coop
Whether you’re a novice chicken keeper or a seasoned pro, certain accessories are indispensable. Here’s a list of must-have items:
1. Nesting Boxes
Providing adequate nesting boxes is crucial for egg-laying hens. The general guideline is to have one nesting box for every three hens. Opt for boxes that are dark, quiet, and enclosed—this helps reassure your hens that their eggs are safe. Look for materials that are easy to clean, such as wood or plastic, and ensure that the boxes are slightly elevated off the ground to keep the eggs clean and dry.
2. Roosting Bars
Roosting is a natural behavior for chickens, and providing adequate roosting bars is essential for their comfort. The bars should be at least 2 feet off the ground, and they should be made from rounded wood to avoid injury. Space them properly, allowing each bird sufficient room to perch without overcrowding. A good sizing recommendation is at least 6 to 8 inches of space per bird on the roost.
3. Feeders and Waterers
Choosing feeders and waterers wisely will keep your chickens fed and hydrated effectively. Automatic or gravity feeders can save time and reduce waste. Look for designs that prevent scratching and spilling, as chickens can be very wasteful with their food. Similarly, waterers should be easy to access, clean, and refill, but also designed to reduce contamination from dirt and droppings. Consider options that feature elevated bases to keep the water clean.
4. Grit and Mineral Supplies
Chickens need grit to aid in digestion, especially if they’re consuming grains, seeds, and other hard foods. Providing a separate container for grit helps ensure they can access it as needed. Additionally, mineral supplements like oyster shell can enhance calcium intake, promoting stronger eggshells.
Enhancements for Comfort and Enrichment
Once you’ve covered the essentials, look into accessories that enhance the comfort and happiness of your flock:
5. Dust Bathtubs
Chickens are natural bathers and will instinctively seek out dust to keep their feathers clean and free from mites. Creating a dust bathing area filled with sand, dirt, or DE (Diatomaceous Earth) gives them a designated space to indulge in this necessary behavior. Consider placing it in a sheltered area within your coop or garden to keep it dry.
6. Chicken Toys
Contrary to common belief, chickens are intelligent creatures and can get bored easily. Providing toys, such as hanging treats, mirrors, or pecking blocks, can stimulate their minds and prevent disruptive behaviors. These toys not only encourage physical activity but also promote social interaction within your flock.
7. Shade and Ventilation
Chickens are sensitive to temperature extremes. Make sure your coop has adequate ventilation to keep air flowing during hot months while providing shade for sun protection. Accessories like shade cloths, canopies, or even simple roof overhangs can significantly reduce heat stress in your hens.
Safety First: Protecting Your Flock
When exploring chicken coop accessories, safety should always be a top concern. Ensuring that your chickens are safeguarded from predators is non-negotiable.
8. Predator-proof Features
Consider installing locks on all access points of the coop. Use materials that are sturdy and difficult for predators to breach, such as hardware cloth instead of chicken wire, as it offers a better deterrent. Additionally, accessories like motion-activated lights or alarms can act as deterrents to potential threats.
9. Detachable Feed Storage
Keeping feed secure is vital for safeguarding your flock against pests and keeping the feed fresh. Look for airtight containers that can keep rodents at bay and minimize spoilage. Some storage options come with wheel bases, making it easier to transport feed in and out of the coop as needed.
Maintenance and Cleaning Accessories
Keeping your coop clean is essential for the health of your chickens. Having the right cleaning accessories can make your life easier:
10. Coop Cleaning Tools
Having dedicated tools for cleaning your coop ensures that you can perform maintenance efficiently. Consider investing in sturdy brooms, scoops, and shovels, as well as disinfectants that are safe for avian use. A deep litter system can also make cleaning easier, as it allows waste to break down naturally over time.
11. Egg Collection Baskets
Purchasing a basket or designated container specifically for collecting eggs can add a touch of ease and elegance to your daily routine. Look for something sturdy and easy to carry that will protect your eggs while on the way to the kitchen, reducing the risk of breakage.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Accessories
Creating an ideal environment for your chickens doesn’t just enhance their health and productivity; it also fosters a more enjoyable experience for you as their caretaker. By understanding your chickens’ needs, selecting the right essential accessories, and incorporating enriching elements, you’re setting the stage for a happy, thriving flock.
