Boosting healthier chickens commences with appropriate nourishment. Feeding your flock the ideal eating plan at Just about every stage of everyday living is essential for growth, egg generation, and All round well-currently being. No matter whether you're elevating 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 just one to their golden laying a long time.

one. Starter Feed (0–six Months Old)
The primary couple weeks of a chick’s existence are significant. Throughout this period, chicks have to have superior-protein starter feed to assistance quick expansion and development. Most starter feeds include 18–20% protein, along with the appropriate harmony of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Sort: Crumbles or mash (easier for tiny beaks to eat)

Supplements: Grit is avoidable if feeding only professional starter feed.

Idea: Stay clear of supplying treats much too early—starter feed should be their sole diet to make sure well 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 Grower Feed (6–18 Months Outdated)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 articles, normally 15–seventeen%, and less calcium than layer feed to stop kidney issues in youthful birds.

Function: Supports constant development without encouraging untimely laying.

Type: 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 creating organs.

three. Layer Feed (18+ Weeks / First Egg)
The moment your pullets lay their very first egg, it’s time to modify to layer feed. This specially formulated feed incorporates about 16% protein and the next degree of calcium to aid eggshell formation.

Sort: Crumbles or pellets.

Supplements: Present oyster shell or crushed eggshells totally free-option for extra calcium.

Suggestion: Some hens like crumbles more than pellets—notice your flock’s desire.

4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
In case you’re boosting chickens for meat, your feeding technique is different. Broilers have to have a high-protein, Vitality-dense feed to guidance 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 no more than ten% of daily intake. Offer healthy 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
Normally deliver clean up, contemporary drinking water—it’s far more crucial than feed.

Retailer feed correctly to avoid mould and pests.

Change feed portions based on flock sizing and age.

Feeding chickens the right way at Just about every daily life stage makes sure a thriving flock, much QH88 better egg output, and less health issues. With the ideal diet regime, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe some clucks of appreciation!