Increasing healthier chickens starts off with suitable nutrition. Feeding your flock the proper diet at Every phase of lifestyle is important for development, egg output, and All round well-getting. Regardless of whether you happen to be raising chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, comprehension their changing nutritional demands can help be certain a contented and productive flock. This chicken feeding guidebook walks you through what to feed your birds from day one particular for their golden laying yrs.
one. Starter Feed (0–6 Weeks Old)
The primary number of weeks of the chick’s life are critical. All through this era, chicks need substantial-protein starter feed to aid fast progress and progress. Most starter feeds comprise eighteen–twenty% protein, along with the correct stability of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Kind: Crumbles or mash (much easier for very small beaks to take in)
Nutritional supplements: Grit is unnecessary if feeding only commercial starter feed.
Tip: Steer clear of giving treats as well early—starter feed needs to be their sole diet regime to guarantee well balanced nourishment.
two. Grower Feed (six–18 Weeks Outdated)
As chicks develop into pullets (teenage chickens), their eating plan shifts to grower feed. This feed has slightly decrease protein information, usually 15–17%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to prevent kidney problems in younger birds.
Goal: Supports regular growth without the need of encouraging untimely laying.
Type: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Grit for those who introduce grains or treats.
Suggestion: Stay away from layer feed till they begin laying, as high calcium concentrations can damage building organs.
three. Layer Feed (18+ Months / First Egg)
After your pullets lay their to start with egg, it’s time to change to layer feed. This specifically formulated feed includes about sixteen% protein and the next amount of calcium to support eggshell development.
Form: Crumbles or pellets.
Health supplements: Offer oyster shell or crushed eggshells absolutely free-choice for further calcium.
Idea: Some hens want crumbles around pellets—observe your flock’s preference.
4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
For those who’re increasing chickens for meat, your feeding system differs. Broilers need a higher-protein, Power-dense feed to help quick body weight attain.
Starter (0–3 weeks): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (3 months to reap): 18–twenty% protein.
Suggestion: Monitor feed carefully—overfeeding can lead to leg challenges or heart troubles.
five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, sparsely)
Treats can be quite a wonderful dietary supplement for your chickens’ food plan, but they ought to make up not more than 10% of each day intake. Give healthy selections like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Stay clear of: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, raw beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: If the flock eats total grains or roughage, provide grit to assist digestion.
Final Guidelines
Normally QH88 supply clear, contemporary h2o—it’s extra essential than feed.
Keep feed effectively in order to avoid mildew and pests.
Modify feed portions depending on flock measurement and age.
Feeding chickens effectively at Each individual lifetime stage makes sure a flourishing flock, far better egg manufacturing, and fewer medical issues. With the best eating plan, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe a handful of clucks of appreciation!