Raising healthier chickens commences with suitable diet. Feeding your flock the proper diet program at Just about every stage of lifestyle is important for development, egg manufacturing, and In general properly-getting. Irrespective of whether you happen to be raising chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, comprehension their modifying nutritional desires assists be certain a happy and effective flock. This rooster feeding tutorial walks you thru what to feed your birds from working day just one to their golden laying a long time.

one. Starter Feed (0–six Months Previous)
The primary several months of a chick’s existence are important. During this era, chicks require substantial-protein starter feed to assist quick development and improvement. Most starter feeds contain eighteen–20% protein, combined with the proper balance of natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Kind: Crumbles or mash (less difficult for tiny beaks to try to eat)

Supplements: Grit is unwanted if feeding only industrial starter feed.

Idea: Stay clear of providing treats much too early—starter feed needs to be their sole food plan to ensure well balanced nutrition.

2. Grower Feed (six–eighteen Months Old)
As chicks grow into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet program shifts to grower feed. This feed has a bit decreased protein information, ordinarily fifteen–17%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to circumvent kidney issues in youthful birds.

Intent: Supports continuous advancement without encouraging untimely laying.

Form: Crumbles or pellets.

Supplements: Grit in the event you introduce grains or treats.

Idea: Keep away from layer feed right up until they start laying, as large calcium amounts can harm creating organs.

three. Layer Feed (18+ Months / To start with Egg)
At the time your pullets lay their to start with egg, it’s time to change to layer feed. This specially formulated feed contains about sixteen% protein and a better degree of calcium to assistance eggshell development.

Kind: Crumbles or pellets.

Dietary supplements: Give oyster shell or crushed eggshells absolutely free-choice for excess calcium.

Tip: Some hens want crumbles above 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 have to have a large-protein, Electrical power-dense feed to help swift excess weight get.

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

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

Tip: Check feed diligently—overfeeding can QH88 lead to leg problems or coronary heart issues.

5. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, in Moderation)
Treats is usually a fantastic complement for your chickens’ diet plan, but they should make up no more than ten% of each day consumption. Provide wholesome solutions like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.

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

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

Last Strategies
Generally offer cleanse, refreshing drinking water—it’s much more vital than feed.

Retailer feed properly in order to avoid mildew and pests.

Regulate feed parts depending on flock dimensions and age.

Feeding chickens properly at Just about every lifestyle stage assures a thriving flock, superior egg output, and much less health concerns. With the right diet plan, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe a few clucks of appreciation!