Increasing wholesome chickens begins with correct diet. Feeding your flock the correct diet plan at Each and every phase of daily life is essential for expansion, egg manufacturing, and In general properly-becoming. Whether or not you might be elevating chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, comprehending their transforming nutritional requirements assists guarantee a contented and productive flock. This rooster feeding guide walks you through what to feed your birds from working day one to their golden laying several years.
one. Starter Feed (0–six Weeks Previous)
The 1st few weeks of a chick’s lifetime are critical. For the duration of this era, chicks require higher-protein starter feed to assist immediate development and advancement. Most starter feeds consist of eighteen–twenty% protein, together with the ideal balance of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Form: Crumbles or mash (less difficult for small beaks to consume)
Health supplements: Grit is unneeded if feeding only commercial 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 mature into pullets (teenage chickens), their food plan shifts to grower feed. This feed has a little bit lessen protein information, commonly 15–17%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to avoid kidney concerns in young birds.
Intent: Supports continual progress without having encouraging untimely laying.
Sort: Crumbles or pellets.
Dietary supplements: Grit in the event you introduce grains or treats.
Idea: Prevent layer feed until finally they begin laying, as significant calcium amounts can hurt establishing organs.
3. Layer Feed (eighteen+ Months / 1st Egg)
As soon as your pullets lay their to start with egg, it’s time to change to layer feed. This specifically formulated feed includes about 16% protein and an increased degree of calcium to support eggshell formation.
Sort: Crumbles or pellets.
Dietary supplements: Provide oyster shell or crushed eggshells absolutely free-choice for more calcium.
Tip: Some hens desire crumbles over pellets—observe your flock’s choice.
four. Broiler Feed (For QH88 Meat Birds)
In the event you’re increasing chickens for meat, your feeding strategy is different. Broilers require a high-protein, Vitality-dense feed to guidance fast fat attain.
Starter (0–three months): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (3 weeks to reap): eighteen–twenty% protein.
Suggestion: Check feed meticulously—overfeeding may result in leg issues or coronary heart problems.
five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, carefully)
Treats can be a fantastic dietary supplement to the chickens’ diet regime, but they need to make up not more than 10% of daily consumption. Supply healthful choices like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Avoid: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, Uncooked beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: In case your flock eats full grains or roughage, present grit to aid digestion.
Closing Ideas
Always present thoroughly clean, clean h2o—it’s much more critical than feed.
Store feed adequately to avoid mold and pests.
Modify feed portions depending on flock measurement and age.
Feeding chickens accurately at Every single existence stage makes certain a thriving flock, much better egg output, and less health problems. With the right food plan, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe a few clucks of appreciation!