Types of Chicken Feed and Their Uses
Chickens require different types of feed depending on their age and purpose. Here are the main categories of chicken feed:
- Starter Feed: High-protein feed (18-20%) for chicks up to 6 weeks old.
- Grower Feed: Slightly lower protein (16-18%) for growing chickens from 7-18 weeks.
- Layer Feed: Balanced feed (16-18% protein) with added calcium for egg-laying hens.
- Broiler Feed: High-energy, high-protein feed (20-24%) for meat chickens.
- Scratch Grain: A mix of grains (corn, wheat, barley) used as a treat, not a complete diet.
- Medicated vs. Non-Medicated Feed: Medicated feed helps prevent diseases like coccidiosis in young chicks.
Choosing the right type of feed ensures that your chickens receive the necessary nutrients for their specific stage of development.