Raising wholesome chickens starts off with proper nourishment. Feeding your flock the ideal food plan at Every phase of lifetime is essential for advancement, egg output, and In general properly-getting. No matter if you are boosting chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, comprehension their modifying nutritional needs assists ensure a happy and effective flock. This hen feeding guide walks you through what to feed your birds from day one particular for their golden laying years.
1. Starter Feed (0–6 Weeks Old)
The very first couple months of the chick’s existence are important. Throughout this period, chicks need substantial-protein starter feed to guidance immediate advancement and development. Most starter feeds contain eighteen–20% protein, combined with the proper stability of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Sort: Crumbles or mash (less difficult for tiny beaks to try to eat)
Nutritional supplements: Grit is avoidable if feeding only industrial starter feed.
Suggestion: Steer clear of offering treats much too early—starter feed needs to be their sole eating plan to make sure balanced nutrition.
2. Grower Feed (six–eighteen Months Aged)
As chicks grow into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet plan shifts to grower feed. This feed has marginally decreased protein written content, ordinarily fifteen–17%, and less calcium than layer feed to prevent kidney problems in youthful birds.
Intent: Supports continual expansion devoid of encouraging premature laying.
Type: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Grit for those who introduce grains or treats.
Suggestion: Stay away QH88 from layer feed right up until they start laying, as higher 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 includes about sixteen% protein and a higher standard of calcium to help eggshell development.
Type: Crumbles or pellets.
Nutritional supplements: Supply oyster shell or crushed eggshells free-choice for more calcium.
Idea: Some hens prefer crumbles more than pellets—observe your flock’s preference.
4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
In case you’re boosting chickens for meat, your feeding strategy differs. Broilers need a large-protein, Electrical power-dense feed to assistance quick pounds acquire.
Starter (0–3 months): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (three months to harvest): 18–twenty% protein.
Tip: Monitor feed carefully—overfeeding may lead to leg troubles or heart challenges.
5. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, carefully)
Treats can be quite a fantastic supplement on your chickens’ diet program, but they must make up no more than 10% of each day intake. Supply balanced alternatives like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Stay clear of: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, raw beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: Should your flock eats total grains or roughage, provide grit to aid digestion.
Last Recommendations
Always supply clear, contemporary drinking water—it’s additional vital than feed.
Shop feed correctly in order to avoid mold and pests.
Modify feed portions based on flock size and age.
Feeding chickens correctly at each life phase assures a thriving flock, better egg output, and less health issues. With the ideal eating plan, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe a handful of clucks of appreciation!