Increasing balanced chickens starts off with suitable diet. Feeding your flock the correct diet plan at Every phase of existence is important for progress, egg production, and In general effectively-currently being. No matter whether you're boosting chicks, pullets, or adult hens, understanding their shifting nutritional needs will help make sure a cheerful and successful flock. This chicken feeding information walks you thru what to feed your birds from day a single for their golden laying years.

1. Starter Feed (0–six Months Aged)
The very first several months of the chick’s lifestyle are essential. During this period, chicks call for superior-protein starter feed to support speedy expansion and enhancement. Most starter feeds include 18–20% protein, along with the appropriate harmony of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Sort: Crumbles or mash (less complicated for very small beaks to take in)

Nutritional supplements: Grit is unnecessary if feeding only commercial starter feed.

Tip: Steer clear of giving treats as well early—starter feed ought to be their sole diet program to make certain balanced nutrition.

two. Grower Feed (six–18 Weeks Old)
As chicks mature 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 younger birds.

Objective: Supports steady advancement QH88 devoid of encouraging premature laying.

Form: Crumbles or pellets.

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

Tip: Avoid layer feed until eventually they start laying, as high calcium degrees can harm acquiring organs.

3. Layer Feed (eighteen+ Weeks / First Egg)
At the time your pullets lay their very first egg, it’s time to modify to layer feed. This specially formulated feed contains about 16% protein and the next amount of calcium to support eggshell formation.

Variety: Crumbles or pellets.

Dietary supplements: Give oyster shell or crushed eggshells cost-free-option for added calcium.

Idea: Some hens favor crumbles in excess of pellets—notice your flock’s preference.

4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
For those who’re elevating chickens for meat, your feeding tactic differs. Broilers need a substantial-protein, energy-dense feed to help swift weight achieve.

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

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

Tip: Check feed diligently—overfeeding can lead to leg concerns or heart challenges.

five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, carefully)
Treats can be a excellent health supplement towards your chickens’ diet, but they should make up no more than ten% of daily ingestion. Offer wholesome choices like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.

Stay away from: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, raw beans, or moldy scraps.

Use grit: If your flock eats total grains or roughage, offer grit to aid digestion.

Last Suggestions
Usually offer clean, fresh h2o—it’s additional significant than feed.

Keep feed appropriately in order to avoid mold and pests.

Regulate feed parts determined by flock dimension and age.

Feeding chickens properly at Every everyday living phase guarantees a flourishing flock, greater egg manufacturing, and much less medical issues. With the correct diet, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and perhaps several clucks of appreciation!