Raising wholesome chickens begins with correct nourishment. Feeding your flock the proper diet at each phase of existence is important for progress, egg manufacturing, and In general properly-becoming. Whether or not you happen to be raising chicks, pullets, or adult hens, understanding their shifting nutritional needs will help be certain a happy and effective flock. This hen feeding guide walks you through what to feed your birds from day a single for their golden laying decades.
one. Starter Feed (0–6 Weeks Previous)
The 1st few months of the chick’s life are vital. During this era, chicks have to have superior-protein starter feed to guidance swift progress and growth. Most starter feeds incorporate 18–twenty% protein, combined with the correct equilibrium of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Kind: Crumbles or mash (less difficult for tiny beaks to take in)
Health supplements: Grit is needless if feeding only commercial starter feed.
Suggestion: Prevent giving treats far too early—starter feed really should be their sole diet regime to make sure well balanced diet.
two. Grower Feed (six–eighteen Months Previous)
As chicks mature into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet program shifts to grower feed. This feed has slightly reduce protein information, usually 15–17%, and less calcium than layer feed to avoid kidney difficulties in youthful birds.
Intent: Supports steady development with no encouraging premature laying.
Kind: Crumbles or pellets.
Dietary supplements: Grit when you introduce grains or treats.
Suggestion: Keep away from layer feed until eventually they begin laying, as substantial calcium stages can damage building organs.
3. Layer Feed (18+ Months / 1st Egg)
When your pullets lay their first egg, it’s time to change to layer feed. This specifically formulated feed includes about sixteen% protein and a greater degree of calcium to aid eggshell formation.
Kind: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Present oyster shell or crushed eggshells free of charge-option for extra calcium.
Tip: Some hens want crumbles above pellets—notice your flock’s choice.
four. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
Should you’re increasing chickens for meat, your feeding strategy is different. Broilers require a significant-protein, energy-dense feed to assist immediate weight obtain.
Starter (0–3 weeks): 22–24% protein.
Finisher QH88 (three months to reap): 18–20% protein.
Tip: Check feed meticulously—overfeeding may result in leg challenges or coronary heart problems.
five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, carefully)
Treats can be a fantastic complement to your chickens’ diet, but they ought to make up no more than 10% of every day ingestion. Supply healthy possibilities like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Steer clear of: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, Uncooked beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: In case your flock eats whole grains or roughage, present grit to aid digestion.
Closing Ideas
Normally give clean, clean h2o—it’s extra essential than feed.
Retailer feed adequately to avoid mold and pests.
Alter feed portions determined by flock sizing and age.
Feeding chickens properly at Every single everyday living phase makes sure a flourishing flock, improved egg output, and less health problems. With the best diet program, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe a few clucks of appreciation!