Raising healthier chickens starts off with proper nourishment. Feeding your flock the proper diet program at Each individual phase of daily life is essential for growth, egg production, and In general very well-currently being. Irrespective of whether you are boosting chicks, pullets, or adult hens, comprehending their transforming nutritional wants helps assure a contented and productive flock. This rooster feeding guide walks you through what to feed your birds from day one particular for their golden laying years.
1. Starter Feed (0–6 Weeks Previous)
The 1st few weeks of a chick’s existence are significant. In the course of this period, chicks call for superior-protein starter feed to support speedy progress and progress. Most starter feeds comprise eighteen–20% protein, along with the correct balance of natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Variety: Crumbles or mash (a lot easier for very small beaks to consume)
Supplements: Grit is unwanted if feeding only professional starter feed.
Tip: Avoid providing treats far too early—starter feed needs to be their sole diet to guarantee well balanced nutrition.
2. Grower Feed (6–18 Weeks Outdated)
As chicks grow into pullets (teenage chickens), their eating plan shifts to grower feed. This feed has slightly reduced protein written content, usually 15–17%, and less calcium than layer feed to stop kidney troubles in younger birds.
Reason: Supports continual advancement without encouraging untimely laying.
Variety: Crumbles or pellets.
Nutritional supplements: Grit if you introduce grains or treats.
Idea: Avoid layer feed until they begin laying, as significant calcium stages can damage building organs.
three. Layer Feed (18+ Months / Initially Egg)
When your pullets lay their initial egg, it’s time to modify to layer feed. This specially formulated feed incorporates about 16% protein and a higher volume of calcium to help eggshell development.
Kind: Crumbles or pellets.
Dietary supplements: Give oyster shell or crushed eggshells free of charge-option for extra calcium.
Suggestion: Some hens prefer crumbles in excess of pellets—notice your flock’s desire.
four. Broiler Feed (For Meat QH88 Birds)
In the event you’re elevating chickens for meat, your feeding system is different. Broilers need a substantial-protein, Electrical power-dense feed to assistance quick weight acquire.
Starter (0–3 weeks): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (3 months to reap): eighteen–twenty% protein.
Suggestion: Observe feed cautiously—overfeeding can lead to leg issues or coronary heart problems.
five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, moderately)
Treats is usually a fantastic dietary supplement for your chickens’ diet plan, but they must make up no more than ten% of day-to-day intake. Present healthier possibilities like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Stay away from: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, Uncooked beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: Should your flock eats whole grains or roughage, present grit to help digestion.
Ultimate Tips
Constantly offer cleanse, fresh water—it’s additional essential than feed.
Retail outlet feed properly in order to avoid mildew and pests.
Change feed parts based on flock measurement and age.
Feeding chickens effectively at Every existence stage guarantees a thriving flock, better egg output, and less medical issues. With the appropriate diet regime, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe a couple of clucks of appreciation!