Chicken Feeding Information for Each Stage: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
Chicken Feeding Information for Each Stage: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
Blog Article
Raising wholesome chickens starts with good diet. Feeding your flock the correct diet plan at each phase of lifestyle is important for development, egg output, and Total nicely-remaining. No matter if you are increasing chicks, pullets, or adult hens, comprehension their changing nutritional demands helps guarantee a contented and productive flock. This rooster feeding guideline walks you through what to feed your birds from day just one to their golden laying a long time.
one. Starter Feed (0–six Months Old)
The primary couple months of a chick’s existence are important. Throughout this period, chicks call for significant-protein starter feed to support fast progress and progress. Most starter feeds comprise eighteen–twenty% protein, together with the correct balance of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Sort: Crumbles or mash (easier for tiny beaks to eat)
Supplements: Grit is pointless if feeding only commercial starter feed.
Tip: Steer clear of giving treats as well early—starter feed ought to be their sole diet plan to make sure balanced nourishment.
two. Grower Feed (6–18 Months Outdated)
As chicks increase into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet regime shifts to grower feed. This feed has a bit decrease protein material, normally 15–seventeen%, and less calcium than layer feed to prevent kidney challenges in younger birds.
Goal: Supports steady advancement devoid of encouraging premature laying.
Form: QH88 Crumbles or pellets.
Nutritional supplements: Grit in case you introduce grains or treats.
Tip: Stay clear of layer feed right up until they start laying, as superior calcium stages can harm producing organs.
3. Layer Feed (eighteen+ Months / 1st Egg)
As soon as your pullets lay their to start with 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 assistance eggshell development.
Form: Crumbles or pellets.
Health supplements: Offer oyster shell or crushed eggshells cost-free-option for additional calcium.
Suggestion: Some hens prefer crumbles above pellets—notice your flock’s preference.
4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
When you’re raising chickens for meat, your feeding method differs. Broilers have to have a higher-protein, Strength-dense feed to aid fast fat attain.
Starter (0–3 weeks): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (3 weeks to harvest): 18–20% protein.
Suggestion: Observe feed cautiously—overfeeding can cause leg difficulties or coronary heart complications.
five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, in Moderation)
Treats could be a wonderful health supplement towards your chickens’ diet, but they should make up no more than ten% of daily intake. Offer wholesome choices like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Stay away from: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, raw beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: In case your flock eats entire grains or roughage, offer grit to aid digestion.
Final Tips
Always deliver clean up, contemporary drinking water—it’s a lot more crucial than feed.
Retailer feed correctly to avoid mould and pests.
Alter feed portions based on flock sizing and age.
Feeding chickens effectively at Every single existence stage makes certain a thriving flock, better egg generation, and less health issues. With the appropriate diet regime, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe some clucks of appreciation!