Raising wholesome chickens starts with correct diet. Feeding your flock the best diet regime at Every single phase of existence is important for development, egg output, and All round very well-getting. Whether or not you are increasing chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, knowing their transforming nutritional needs aids assure a contented and productive flock. This chicken feeding guidebook walks you through what to feed your birds from day just one for their golden laying yrs.
one. Starter Feed (0–six Weeks Previous)
The primary several months of a chick’s daily life are important. All through this era, chicks have to have superior-protein starter feed to support immediate advancement and progress. Most starter feeds incorporate 18–twenty% protein, along with the right equilibrium of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Type: Crumbles or mash (simpler for very small beaks to consume)
Supplements: Grit is unwanted if feeding only industrial starter feed.
Suggestion: Steer clear of offering treats also early—starter feed should be their sole eating plan to make sure balanced diet.
2. Grower Feed (6–18 Weeks Outdated)
As chicks grow into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet program shifts to grower feed. This feed has a little lower protein material, commonly fifteen–seventeen%, and less calcium than layer feed to forestall kidney challenges in youthful birds.
Objective: Supports constant progress with no encouraging premature laying.
Form: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Grit in the event you introduce grains or treats.
Tip: Avoid layer feed until they begin laying, as substantial calcium ranges can hurt producing organs.
3. Layer Feed (eighteen+ Weeks / To start with Egg)
The moment your pullets lay their 1st egg, it’s time to switch to layer feed. This specifically formulated feed consists of about sixteen% protein and a higher standard of calcium to support eggshell formation.
Sort: Crumbles or pellets.
Dietary supplements: Give oyster shell or crushed eggshells absolutely free-option for added calcium.
Suggestion: Some hens like crumbles above pellets—notice your flock’s desire.
four. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
In case you’re boosting chickens for meat, your feeding strategy is different. Broilers need a substantial-protein, energy-dense feed to assist immediate excess weight obtain.
Starter (0–3 weeks): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (three months to harvest): 18–twenty% protein.
Idea: Watch feed diligently—overfeeding can lead to leg problems or coronary heart problems.
five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, sparsely)
Treats can be quite a wonderful health supplement to the chickens’ diet program, but they should make up no more than ten% of each day intake. Offer healthier alternatives like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Avoid: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, raw beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: If your flock eats total grains or roughage, offer grit to assist digestion.
Final Guidelines
Always give clean up, new water—it’s far more vital than feed.
Shop feed appropriately to stay away QH88 from mold and pests.
Modify feed portions depending on flock dimensions and age.
Feeding chickens correctly at Each and every daily life stage guarantees a flourishing flock, improved egg generation, and less health problems. With the correct diet plan, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and perhaps some clucks of appreciation!