Hen Feeding Guideline for every Stage: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
Hen Feeding Guideline for every Stage: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
Blog Article
Raising healthier chickens begins with correct nourishment. Feeding your flock the appropriate eating plan at Every single stage of lifetime is important for progress, egg manufacturing, and In general properly-being. Whether you happen to be raising chicks, pullets, or adult hens, being familiar with their shifting nutritional needs will help ensure a cheerful and productive flock. This rooster feeding guidebook walks you thru what to feed your birds from working day a single for their golden laying decades.
1. Starter Feed (0–6 Weeks Outdated)
The first handful of months of the chick’s life are vital. All through this period, chicks demand substantial-protein starter feed to aid fast progress and progress. Most starter feeds comprise eighteen–twenty% protein, together with the right balance of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Type: Crumbles or mash (less complicated for little beaks to try to eat)
Health supplements: Grit is avoidable if feeding only professional starter feed.
Idea: Stay clear of supplying treats much too early—starter feed should be their sole food plan to be sure balanced nutrition.
two. Grower Feed (six–18 Weeks Aged)
As chicks improve into pullets (teenage chickens), their eating plan shifts to grower feed. This feed has a little decreased protein articles, generally 15–seventeen%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to stop kidney problems in youthful birds.
Reason: Supports constant development with out encouraging untimely laying.
Kind: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Grit for those who introduce grains or treats.
Suggestion: Steer clear of layer feed until they begin laying, as QH88 higher calcium concentrations can damage creating organs.
three. Layer Feed (18+ Weeks / First Egg)
The moment your pullets lay their very first egg, it’s time to modify to layer feed. This specially formulated feed has about 16% protein and an increased degree of calcium to guidance eggshell formation.
Kind: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Offer you oyster shell or crushed eggshells cost-free-option for additional calcium.
Suggestion: Some hens like crumbles above pellets—notice your flock’s desire.
4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
In case you’re boosting chickens for meat, your feeding technique is different. Broilers have to have a high-protein, Strength-dense feed to aid fast fat gain.
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, in Moderation)
Treats is usually a wonderful nutritional supplement to your chickens’ diet plan, but they need to make up no more than 10% 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: Should your flock eats entire grains or roughage, supply grit to aid digestion.
Final Suggestions
Usually provide clean, fresh h2o—it’s additional critical than feed.
Keep feed effectively to prevent mold and pests.
Change feed portions dependant on flock size and age.
Feeding chickens appropriately at Every single daily life stage makes sure a flourishing flock, much better egg production, and less health issues. With the ideal eating plan, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe a handful of clucks of appreciation!