Hen Feeding Manual for Each Phase: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
Hen Feeding Manual for Each Phase: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
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Elevating healthier chickens commences with right nutrition. Feeding your flock the correct diet program at Every phase of lifestyle is important for growth, egg generation, and General perfectly-currently being. No matter if you're increasing chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, comprehension their altering nutritional desires assists assure a happy and effective flock. This rooster feeding guide walks you through what to feed your birds from working day a person to their golden laying several years.
one. Starter Feed (0–six Weeks Previous)
The 1st several months of a chick’s existence are important. Throughout this period, chicks have to have high-protein starter feed to assistance quick advancement and development. Most starter feeds have eighteen–20% protein, along with the proper stability of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Sort: Crumbles or mash (a lot easier for very small beaks to eat)
Supplements: Grit is pointless if feeding only industrial starter feed.
Tip: Stay away from providing treats also 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, generally fifteen–17%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to avoid kidney concerns in young birds.
Intent: Supports continuous growth without encouraging untimely laying.
Form: Crumbles or pellets.
Nutritional supplements: Grit when you introduce grains or treats.
Tip: Avoid layer feed right until they start laying, as high calcium degrees can damage developing organs.
3. 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 an increased degree of calcium to guidance eggshell formation.
Kind: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Offer you oyster shell or crushed eggshells free-choice for further calcium.
Suggestion: Some hens like crumbles above pellets—notice your flock’s preference.
4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
In QH88 the event you’re increasing chickens for meat, your feeding approach differs. Broilers require a significant-protein, Electricity-dense feed to aid rapid excess weight acquire.
Starter (0–three months): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (three months to reap): 18–20% protein.
Suggestion: Watch feed carefully—overfeeding can lead to leg problems or coronary heart difficulties.
5. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, in Moderation)
Treats can be a good 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, deliver grit to help digestion.
Closing Recommendations
Generally present cleanse, fresh h2o—it’s much more crucial than feed.
Keep feed thoroughly to avoid mold and pests.
Adjust feed parts according to flock measurement and age.
Feeding chickens effectively at Each individual life phase makes certain a thriving flock, much better egg manufacturing, and fewer health concerns. With the ideal food plan, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and perhaps several clucks of appreciation!