Elevating healthier chickens starts off with proper nourishment. Feeding your flock the proper diet plan at each phase of lifestyle is important for progress, egg manufacturing, and In general properly-remaining. Irrespective of whether you're increasing chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, knowing their switching nutritional requirements aids assure a contented and effective flock. This rooster feeding guide walks you through what to feed your birds from day 1 to their golden laying a long time.

1. Starter Feed (0–six Months Old)
The initial handful of weeks of the chick’s life are critical. In the course of this period, chicks need large-protein starter feed to assist speedy development and progress. Most starter feeds comprise eighteen–20% protein, together with the ideal equilibrium of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Variety: Crumbles or mash (much easier for small beaks to take in)

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

Idea: Avoid supplying treats far too early—starter feed must be their sole diet program to make sure balanced diet.

2. Grower Feed (six–18 Weeks Outdated)
As chicks expand into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet plan shifts to grower feed. This feed has a little bit decreased protein articles, generally fifteen–seventeen%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to circumvent kidney troubles in youthful birds.

Objective: Supports constant advancement without having encouraging untimely laying.

Form: Crumbles or pellets.

Dietary supplements: Grit for those who introduce grains or treats.

Tip: Stay clear of layer feed till they start laying, as large calcium ranges can harm building organs.

three. Layer Feed QH88 (eighteen+ Weeks / Initially Egg)
After your pullets lay their initial egg, it’s time to modify to layer feed. This specially formulated feed consists of about sixteen% protein and a higher amount of calcium to assistance eggshell development.

Variety: Crumbles or pellets.

Health supplements: Offer oyster shell or crushed eggshells cost-free-option for excess calcium.

Tip: Some hens want crumbles over pellets—observe your flock’s preference.

4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
When you’re raising chickens for meat, your feeding approach differs. Broilers need a substantial-protein, energy-dense feed to help swift excess weight achieve.

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

Finisher (three weeks to harvest): 18–20% protein.

Suggestion: Watch feed cautiously—overfeeding can cause leg difficulties or coronary heart issues.

five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, carefully)
Treats could be a good supplement for your chickens’ diet regime, but they ought to make up not more than 10% of day-to-day consumption. Offer you nutritious solutions like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.

Avoid: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, Uncooked beans, or moldy scraps.

Use grit: In the event your flock eats whole grains or roughage, provide grit to help digestion.

Remaining Tips
Always provide clean up, fresh new h2o—it’s additional critical than feed.

Keep feed appropriately in order to avoid mold and pests.

Modify feed parts dependant on flock dimensions and age.

Feeding chickens effectively at Every single daily life stage makes sure a thriving flock, much 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!