Hen Feeding Guidebook for Each Phase: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
Hen Feeding Guidebook for Each Phase: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
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Boosting healthier chickens commences with appropriate nourishment. Feeding your flock the ideal food plan at Each individual stage of life is important for development, egg output, and Total nicely-remaining. No matter if you are increasing chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, comprehension their altering nutritional desires assists assure a happy and productive flock. This rooster feeding guideline walks you through what to feed your birds from day a person to their golden laying a long time.
one. Starter Feed (0–six Weeks Previous)
The 1st few weeks of a chick’s lifetime are critical. In the course of this era, chicks involve higher-protein starter feed to help swift advancement and improvement. Most starter feeds incorporate eighteen–20% protein, combined with the suitable equilibrium of natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Variety: Crumbles or mash (simpler for tiny beaks to eat)
Dietary supplements: Grit is unnecessary if feeding only professional starter feed.
Idea: Avoid supplying treats much too early—starter feed should be their sole diet to ensure well balanced nourishment.
two. Grower Feed (6–eighteen Months Outdated)
As chicks increase into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet regime shifts to grower feed. This feed has a bit reduced protein material, normally 15–seventeen%, and less calcium than layer feed to prevent kidney issues in youthful birds.
Function: Supports constant growth 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 (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 incorporates about sixteen% protein and a higher degree of calcium to guidance eggshell formation.
Sort: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Offer you oyster shell or crushed eggshells totally free-choice for excess calcium.
Tip: Some hens want crumbles more than 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 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, in Moderation)
Treats is usually a good nutritional supplement to your chickens’ diet plan, but they need to make up no more than 10% of every day intake. Provide healthful possibilities like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Keep away from: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, Uncooked beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: When your flock eats complete grains or roughage, give grit to assist digestion.
Last Ideas
Often offer thoroughly clean, contemporary h2o—it’s extra vital than feed.
Retail store feed adequately to stop mildew and pests.
Adjust feed parts determined by flock sizing and age.
Feeding chickens the right way at Just about every lifetime stage makes sure a flourishing flock, far better egg production, and less health problems. With QH88 the right eating plan, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe a few clucks of appreciation!