Elevating balanced chickens starts off with proper nutrition. Feeding your flock the correct diet plan at each stage of life is essential for growth, egg output, and Over-all properly-being. Whether or not you happen to be increasing chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, knowing their changing nutritional desires helps be certain a happy and effective flock. This hen feeding guidebook walks you thru what to feed your birds from working day a single for their golden laying years.

1. Starter Feed (0–6 Months Previous)
The main couple months of a chick’s lifestyle are crucial. Throughout this era, chicks require large-protein starter feed to guidance rapid growth and advancement. Most starter feeds consist of eighteen–twenty% protein, together with the right balance of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Type: Crumbles or mash (less difficult for small beaks to consume)

Health supplements: Grit is unwanted if feeding only professional starter feed.

Idea: Stay clear of supplying treats much too early—starter feed should be their sole diet plan to guarantee well balanced nourishment.

2. Grower Feed (6–eighteen Months Previous)
As chicks increase into pullets (teenage chickens), their food plan shifts to grower feed. This feed has marginally decrease protein articles, usually 15–seventeen%, and less calcium than layer feed to circumvent kidney challenges 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 large calcium levels can damage creating organs.

three. Layer Feed (18+ Weeks / Initially Egg)
When your pullets lay their first egg, QH88 it’s time to switch to layer feed. This specifically formulated feed includes about sixteen% protein and an increased degree of calcium to guidance eggshell formation.

Kind: Crumbles or pellets.

Supplements: Offer you oyster shell or crushed eggshells totally free-choice for excess calcium.

Tip: 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 higher-protein, Strength-dense feed to assist swift pounds attain.

Starter (0–three weeks): 22–24% protein.

Finisher (three months to harvest): eighteen–20% protein.

Tip: Monitor feed cautiously—overfeeding can result in leg issues or heart issues.

five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, in Moderation)
Treats can be a terrific health supplement for your chickens’ diet regime, but they should make up no more than ten% of day-to-day consumption. Present healthy possibilities like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.

Prevent: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, raw beans, or moldy scraps.

Use grit: If your flock eats whole grains or roughage, present grit to help digestion.

Final Suggestions
Always offer cleanse, contemporary h2o—it’s more essential than feed.

Retailer feed appropriately in order to avoid mold and pests.

Adjust feed parts dependant on flock dimension and age.

Feeding chickens appropriately at Every single lifetime stage guarantees a flourishing flock, improved egg output, and fewer health issues. With the ideal food plan, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe a couple of clucks of appreciation!