Increasing healthy chickens starts with good diet. Feeding your flock the best diet program at Every phase of existence is important for progress, egg manufacturing, and In general properly-becoming. Whether you happen to be raising 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 daily life are significant. In the course of this period, chicks have to have high-protein starter feed to help quick expansion and development. Most starter feeds include 18–20% protein, combined with the appropriate harmony of natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Sort: Crumbles or mash (easier for tiny beaks to eat)
Supplements: Grit is pointless if feeding only industrial starter feed.
Tip: Steer clear of giving treats as well early—starter feed needs to be their sole diet program to be sure balanced nutrition.
two. Grower Feed (six–18 Weeks Aged)
As chicks improve into pullets (teenage chickens), their eating plan shifts to grower feed. This feed has a little decreased protein information, generally 15–seventeen%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to stop kidney problems in youthful birds.
Reason: Supports steady advancement with out encouraging untimely laying.
Kind: Crumbles or pellets.
Dietary supplements: Grit if you introduce grains or treats.
Idea: Keep away from layer feed till they begin laying, as substantial calcium ranges can hurt building organs.
three. Layer Feed (18+ Months / Initial Egg)
At the time your pullets lay their 1st egg, it’s time to switch to layer feed. This specially formulated feed contains about 16% protein and the next amount of calcium to aid eggshell formation.
Sort: Crumbles or pellets.
Dietary supplements: Present oyster shell or crushed eggshells free of charge-option for QH88 extra calcium.
Suggestion: Some hens like crumbles above pellets—notice your flock’s desire.
4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
In case you’re boosting chickens for meat, your feeding method differs. Broilers have to have a high-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: Watch feed carefully—overfeeding can result in leg troubles or coronary heart complications.
five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, in Moderation)
Treats could be a excellent health supplement towards your chickens’ diet, but they should make up not more than ten% of day by day ingestion. Give healthy choices 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 present cleanse, clean drinking water—it’s a lot more essential than feed.
Shop feed properly to stay away from mould and pests.
Alter feed portions dependant on flock sizing and age.
Feeding chickens effectively at Every single existence phase makes certain a thriving flock, improved egg generation, and fewer health concerns. With the appropriate diet program, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and perhaps a number of clucks of appreciation!