SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/chick-no-kissing

Is it OK to kiss or snuggle your backyard chickens?

No. The CDC says don't kiss them or snuggle them and then touch your face.

Start playing free

  1. Yes, if the chicken looks clean
  2. Yes, but only baby chicks
  3. No, keep chickens away from your face ✔

Why: Chickens can carry Salmonella even when they look healthy. Germs on feathers and beaks can get into your mouth and make you sick.

Huh, didn't know that: The CDC says Salmonella outbreaks linked to backyard poultry are common.

The dad joke
How do baby chickens dance? Chick to chick.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: No, keep chickens away from your face. Chickens can carry Salmonella even when they look healthy. Germs on feathers and beaks can get into your mouth and make you sick.

  1. Backyard Poultry, CDC Healthy Pets, Healthy People www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/about/backyard-poultry.html
    Don't kiss backyard poultry or snuggle them and then touch your face or mouth.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Backyard ChickensWhen should you wash your hands with soap and water around backyard chickens?Backyard ChickensShould children younger than 5 touch chicks or chickens?Backyard ChickensAccording to Minnesota Extension, how often should you clean the coop and pen?

That's stuff everyone should know.