Elevating healthier chickens starts off with correct nutrition. Feeding your flock the best food plan at Every phase of lifetime is essential for development, egg production, and In general very well-staying. Irrespective of whether you happen to be raising chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, knowing their switching nutritional demands assists be certain a happy and effective flock. This hen feeding guidebook walks you thru what to feed your birds from working day one to their golden laying decades.
one. Starter Feed (0–six Months Aged)
The initial couple months of the chick’s life are crucial. All through this era, chicks involve higher-protein starter feed to assist swift advancement and enhancement. Most starter feeds contain eighteen–20% protein, along with the proper balance of natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Variety: Crumbles or mash (easier for little beaks to eat)
Nutritional supplements: Grit is unwanted if feeding only industrial starter feed.
Idea: Keep away from supplying treats way too early—starter feed should be their sole eating plan to make certain well balanced nutrition.
2. Grower Feed (six–eighteen Months Previous)
As chicks mature into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet regime shifts to grower feed. This feed has slightly decreased protein content, generally fifteen–seventeen%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to prevent kidney concerns in younger birds.
Intent: Supports regular progress without the need of encouraging untimely laying.
Variety: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Grit in case you introduce grains or treats.
Suggestion: Prevent layer feed right until they begin laying, as superior calcium concentrations can damage establishing organs.
3. Layer Feed (18+ Months / Very first Egg)
As soon as your pullets lay their first egg, it’s time to modify to layer feed. This specially formulated feed incorporates about 16% protein and a greater level of calcium to aid eggshell formation.
Variety: Crumbles or pellets.
Health supplements: Provide oyster shell or crushed eggshells free-choice for excess calcium.
Tip: Some hens like crumbles above pellets—notice your flock’s preference.
4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
For those who’re elevating chickens for meat, your feeding system differs. Broilers need a substantial-protein, energy-dense feed to help immediate excess weight get.
Starter (0–three months): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (three weeks to harvest): 18–20% QH88 protein.
Tip: Check feed thoroughly—overfeeding can lead to leg problems or heart issues.
five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, carefully)
Treats might be a great supplement to your chickens’ diet, but they must make up no more than 10% of day by day consumption. Provide wholesome options like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Stay clear of: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, raw beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: If your flock eats total grains or roughage, give grit to aid digestion.
Closing Ideas
Usually present thoroughly clean, fresh new water—it’s additional essential than feed.
Retail outlet feed effectively to stop mould and pests.
Modify feed portions based upon flock sizing and age.
Feeding chickens appropriately at Just about every life phase ensures a flourishing flock, better egg manufacturing, and fewer health issues. With the correct diet regime, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe several clucks of appreciation!