Raising healthful chickens begins with correct nourishment. Feeding your flock the ideal diet program at Each and every phase of daily life is important for development, egg production, and Total well-currently being. No matter whether you are boosting chicks, pullets, or adult hens, knowing their transforming nutritional needs aids make certain a happy and successful flock. This chicken feeding tutorial walks you thru what to feed your birds from working day 1 for their golden laying a long time.

one. Starter Feed (0–six Months Old)
The initial several months of a chick’s existence are important. During this period, chicks call for superior-protein starter feed to support speedy expansion and enhancement. Most starter feeds include 18–20% protein, along with the proper stability of natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

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

Nutritional supplements: Grit is needless if feeding only professional starter feed.

Tip: Avoid providing treats much too early—starter feed ought to be their sole diet plan to make sure balanced nourishment.

two. Grower Feed (6–18 Months Outdated)
As chicks grow into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet regime shifts to grower feed. This feed has slightly reduced protein written content, typically 15–seventeen%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to circumvent kidney problems in youthful birds.

Reason: Supports constant development with out encouraging untimely laying.

Kind: Crumbles or pellets.

Dietary supplements: Grit if you introduce grains or treats.

Idea: Keep away from layer feed right up until they start laying, as high calcium concentrations can damage creating organs.

three. Layer Feed (18+ Months / Very first Egg)
At the time your pullets lay their very first egg, it’s time to modify to layer feed. This specially formulated feed has about sixteen% protein and an increased degree of calcium to assist eggshell development.

Kind: Crumbles or pellets.

Supplements: Give oyster shell or crushed eggshells free of charge-option for excess calcium.

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

four. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
In the event you’re increasing chickens for meat, your feeding strategy is different. Broilers require a superior-protein, Power-dense feed to guidance rapid bodyweight attain.

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

Finisher (3 months to reap): 18–20% protein.

Idea: Observe feed carefully—overfeeding can lead to leg issues or coronary QH88 heart challenges.

5. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, in Moderation)
Treats could be a great complement to your chickens’ diet, but they should make up no more than ten% of daily intake. Provide wholesome alternatives like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.

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

Use grit: When your flock eats complete grains or roughage, present grit to aid digestion.

Ultimate Strategies
Normally deliver cleanse, contemporary drinking water—it’s a lot more crucial than feed.

Retailer feed correctly to avoid mould and pests.

Change feed portions according to flock size and age.

Feeding chickens the right way at Each individual lifetime stage ensures a flourishing flock, far better egg production, and less health problems. With the right food plan, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe a few clucks of appreciation!