Increasing balanced chickens starts off with right diet. Feeding your flock the correct diet plan at Every phase of existence is important for progress, egg manufacturing, and All round perfectly-currently being. No matter if you're increasing chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, knowledge their transforming nutritional requirements can help make sure a cheerful and successful flock. This chicken feeding information walks you thru what to feed your birds from day one particular for their golden laying many years.

1. Starter Feed (0–six Months Aged)
The initial several months of a chick’s existence are important. 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 natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Variety: Crumbles or mash (simpler for small beaks to eat)

Dietary supplements: Grit is unneeded if feeding only business starter feed.

Suggestion: Keep away from offering treats far too early—starter feed really should be their sole food plan to be certain well balanced diet.

2. Grower Feed (6–eighteen Months Outdated)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 problems in youthful birds.

Reason: Supports constant development with out encouraging untimely laying.

Kind: Crumbles or pellets.

Supplements: Grit if you introduce grains or treats.

Suggestion: Stay away from layer feed till they begin laying, as high 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 contains about 16% protein and the next amount of calcium to support eggshell formation.

Variety: Crumbles or pellets.

Dietary supplements: Give oyster shell or crushed eggshells cost-free-option for additional calcium.

Suggestion: Some hens prefer crumbles in excess of pellets—notice your flock’s preference.

4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
For those who’re raising chickens for meat, your feeding approach differs. Broilers need a substantial-protein, Electrical power-dense feed to assistance swift weight obtain.

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

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

Tip: Keep an eye on feed diligently—overfeeding can lead to leg concerns or coronary heart challenges.

five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, carefully)
Treats could be a excellent health supplement to your chickens’ eating plan, but they must make up not more than ten% of day by day ingestion. Give healthy choices like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.

Stay away from: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, raw beans, or moldy scraps.

Use grit: Should QH88 your flock eats complete grains or roughage, supply grit to assist digestion.

Last Suggestions
Often offer thoroughly clean, new water—it’s more vital than feed.

Retail store feed thoroughly to stop mildew and pests.

Modify feed parts based upon flock dimensions and age.

Feeding chickens accurately at Every single existence phase makes certain a thriving flock, better egg manufacturing, and fewer health concerns. With the appropriate diet program, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe some clucks of appreciation!