Raising healthy chickens starts with proper diet. Feeding your flock the appropriate eating plan at Just about every phase of daily life is important for growth, egg output, and All round very well-being. Whether you happen to be increasing chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, comprehending their shifting nutritional requires helps guarantee a contented and productive flock. This rooster feeding guide walks you through what to feed your birds from day one to their golden laying several years.

one. Starter Feed (0–6 Weeks Previous)
The 1st couple of weeks of the chick’s life are essential. All through this period, chicks demand significant-protein starter feed to support speedy progress and progress. Most starter feeds contain 18–20% protein, along with the proper stability of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Kind: Crumbles or mash (a lot easier for very small beaks to take in)

Supplements: Grit is unnecessary if feeding only commercial starter feed.

Tip: Steer clear of giving treats as well early—starter feed must be their sole diet regime to be sure balanced nutrition.

two. Grower Feed (six–18 Weeks Old)
As chicks grow into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet shifts to grower feed. This feed has a little bit lessen protein written content, ordinarily fifteen–17%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to forestall kidney troubles in youthful birds.

Intent: Supports continuous growth without encouraging untimely laying.

Sort: Crumbles or pellets.

Health supplements: Grit in case you introduce grains or treats.

Tip: Avoid layer feed until they begin laying, as large calcium ranges can hurt establishing organs.

3. Layer Feed (18+ Months / Very first Egg)
Once your pullets lay their initially egg, it’s time to switch to layer feed. This specifically formulated feed consists of about sixteen% protein and a higher standard of calcium to support eggshell formation.

Form: Crumbles or pellets.

Health supplements: Provide oyster shell QH88 or crushed eggshells no cost-choice for more calcium.

Tip: Some hens desire crumbles over pellets—observe 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, Vitality-dense feed to guidance rapid fat attain.

Starter (0–3 weeks): 22–24% protein.

Finisher (3 weeks to harvest): 18–20% protein.

Suggestion: Observe feed cautiously—overfeeding can cause leg difficulties or coronary heart problems.

5. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, moderately)
Treats can be quite a terrific supplement for your chickens’ diet program, but they need to make up no more than 10% of everyday consumption. Supply healthier selections like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.

Stay clear of: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, Uncooked beans, or moldy scraps.

Use grit: If the flock eats total grains or roughage, present grit to assist digestion.

Ultimate Guidelines
Constantly give clear, refreshing water—it’s much more important than feed.

Store feed properly to stay away from mildew and pests.

Alter feed portions dependant on flock dimensions and age.

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