Elevating wholesome chickens begins with correct nourishment. Feeding your flock the ideal eating plan at Each individual stage of life is important for growth, egg output, and All round well-staying. No matter if you're increasing chicks, pullets, or Grownup 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 a person to their golden laying a long time.
one. Starter Feed (0–six Months Old)
The primary couple weeks of a chick’s existence are important. Throughout this period, chicks have to have superior-protein starter feed to assistance quick expansion and enhancement. Most starter feeds include 18–20% protein, along with the proper harmony of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Sort: Crumbles or mash (a lot 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 certain balanced nutrition.
two. Grower Feed (6–18 Months Aged)
As chicks improve into pullets (teenage chickens), their eating plan shifts to grower feed. This feed has a little decreased protein articles, generally 15–seventeen%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to stop kidney problems in youthful birds.
Reason: Supports constant development without encouraging untimely laying.
Kind: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Grit for those who introduce grains or treats.
Suggestion: Steer clear of layer feed until they begin laying, as higher calcium concentrations can damage developing organs.
three. Layer Feed (eighteen+ Weeks / First Egg)
The moment your pullets lay their initial egg, it’s time to modify to layer feed. This specially formulated feed has about 16% protein and an increased level of calcium to guidance eggshell formation.
Kind: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Offer QH88 you oyster shell or crushed eggshells free-choice for excess calcium.
Tip: Some hens want crumbles over pellets—observe your flock’s choice.
four. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
In the event you’re increasing chickens for meat, your feeding strategy is different. Broilers require a superior-protein, Power-dense feed to assist immediate bodyweight get.
Starter (0–three months): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (three weeks to harvest): 18–20% protein.
Tip: Keep an eye on feed diligently—overfeeding can result in leg troubles or coronary heart challenges.
five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, carefully)
Treats can be a excellent dietary supplement on your chickens’ food plan, but they must make up not more than ten% of day by day ingestion. Give healthy options like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Steer clear of: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, raw beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: If your flock eats whole grains or roughage, provide grit to help digestion.
Remaining Strategies
Normally deliver cleanse, contemporary drinking water—it’s a lot more crucial than feed.
Shop 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 fewer health issues. With the appropriate diet program, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and perhaps a number of clucks of appreciation!