Elevating balanced chickens starts off with right nutrition. Feeding your flock the proper diet at each stage of life is important for development, egg output, and All round well-staying. No matter if you're increasing chicks, pullets, or adult hens, knowledge their altering nutritional desires assists assure a contented and productive flock. This rooster feeding guide walks you through what to feed your birds from day a person to their golden laying several years.

one. Starter Feed (0–six Months Old)
The primary couple weeks of a chick’s daily life are significant. In the course of this era, chicks have to have high-protein starter feed to help quick advancement and development. Most starter feeds include 18–20% protein, combined with the appropriate harmony of natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Variety: Crumbles or mash (easier for tiny beaks to eat)

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

Tip: Steer clear of providing treats as well early—starter feed needs to be their sole diet regime 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 without encouraging untimely laying.

Type: Crumbles or pellets.

Supplements: Grit for those who introduce grains or treats.

Suggestion: Steer clear of layer feed until they begin laying, as higher calcium concentrations can damage developing organs.

three. Layer Feed (eighteen+ Weeks / To start with Egg)
After your pullets lay their initial egg, it’s time to modify to layer feed. This specially formulated feed has about 16% protein and a better level of calcium to assist eggshell formation.

Kind: Crumbles or pellets.

Nutritional supplements: Supply oyster shell or QH88 crushed eggshells free-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 system is different. Broilers require a significant-protein, Power-dense feed to assist immediate excess weight achieve.

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

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

Tip: Check feed thoroughly—overfeeding can lead to leg problems or heart troubles.

five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, sparsely)
Treats might be a great complement in your chickens’ diet regime, but they ought to make up not more than ten% of day-to-day consumption. Offer you nutritious solutions like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.

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

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

Closing Recommendations
Generally give clear, clean water—it’s much more important than feed.

Store feed thoroughly to stay away from mildew and pests.

Modify feed parts dependant on flock dimensions and age.

Feeding chickens accurately at Each and every lifestyle phase assures a thriving flock, improved egg creation, and fewer medical issues. With the correct diet plan, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and perhaps several clucks of appreciation!