The types of chicken feed available for your coop will depend on what purpose you want your chicks to serve. Depending on their type, chick starter has the most protein and is recommended for newly hatched chicks. Broiler and Layer feeds are good for growing chickens and all-purpose feeds are good for layers. Layer feeds are the best choice for growing laying hens.
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All-purpose feed
All-purpose chicken feed is a mix of different ingredients. Chickens are sensitive to the correct balance of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It contains micro-ingredients that make up for any shortfalls in the macro-ingredients. In some cases, an all-purpose mix is too bland. But in other cases, it contains ingredients your chickens need to stay healthy. So what is in an all-purpose mix?
One type of feed is called flock raiser, and it has a generalized formula that covers the basic needs of your flock. This type of feed is ideal for those chickens that aren’t used for any specific purpose, such as broilers, laying hens, or show breeds. But there are some differences between all-purpose feed and specialized feeds, so it is crucial to choose the right one.
Layer feed
Many people ask themselves: What is the best layer chicken feed? There are several different kinds of layer chicken feed, each with different ingredients and dietary needs. For example, Layena + has probiotics and contains a higher level of protein than regular layer feed. But some people have found that Layena + does not produce as many eggs as other brands. For those who prefer homemade feed, there are many recipes available online.
Another option for those who wish to feed their hens with a more natural approach is organic layer feed. This type of feed is made from natural ingredients and is readily available in 25-pound bags on Amazon. It contains non-GMO corn and soybean meal. This type of feed does not contain any chemicals or preservatives. However, it is more expensive than organic layer feed. The most natural, non-GMO feed is a better choice if you’re concerned about the environment and the health of your chickens.
Broiler feed
In the world of poultry production, there are a number of differences between broiler feeds and their natural counterparts. Some are more digestible for chickens than others. In fact, most broiler feeds are pelleted, so birds can easily consume a greater volume of feed. Pellets are also easier to digest for poultry, and many producers use them to formulate high-energy diets that meet the requirements of poultry.
During their first four weeks of life, broiler chicks need broiler starter feed containing 20 to 23 percent protein. Then, broiler grower feeds contain 19 to 20 percent protein, and broiler finisher diets are 15 to 18 percent protein. To ensure a balanced diet for chickens, broiler starter feeds have a higher level of protein than layers’ rations.
Grower feed
You should start giving your pullets and cockerels grower chicken feed at around five to eight weeks of age. This feed contains less protein and is lower in calcium than starter diets. This feed is also more energy-dense. It comes in either mash or crumble form and is appropriate for most adolescent chickens. However, if you are planning to sell your chickens for meat, you should choose a different type of feed.
Whole grain feed is a popular choice. Whole grain ingredients are broken down and in their natural form. It is easy to feed chickens because these pieces are large enough for them to pick up. Micro pellets are smaller than standard pellets. This mix is high in vitamins, minerals, and protein (30-40%). They are also easier to handle and will not be wasted. Various brands of pelleted feed use different types of grains.
Medicated feed
Medicated chicken feed is available in a number of forms, from pellets to liquid supplements. These foods do not treat the underlying illness. However, low doses of antibiotics are helpful for minor diseases and faster growth. In contrast, higher doses of antibiotics are harmful and can cause side effects in humans. If you plan to eat chicken meat or eggs, you should follow the withdrawal period recommended on the feed label.
Starter/Grower Medicated Chicken feed is a complete diet that you can start feeding pullets right from hatching. It is recommended to feed this to the pullets continuously for the first six weeks of life. Once they reach the age of egg production, you should switch to the Layer Feed. Medicated chicken feeds, such as Small Pet Select Value Choice, contain 18% protein. It supports healthy growth and development in chickens from hatch to teenage age.
