It is a dream of every farmer to maintain a healthy flock. In order to turn this dream into a reality, they should give their birds a type of feed which properly balances all types of essential nutrients. As a backyard chicken farmer, it is important that you choose the right type of chicken feed as it will help in the proper growth of your birds. Let us now dive a little deeper and understand the various types of chicken feed available in the market.

Chicken Starter Feed

First is chicken starter feed. It is important that you give this feed to the little chicks because it provides high proteins needed for the growth and development in the initial phases of their lives. Since chicks are vulnerable to different kinds of diseases, some little amount of medicines is added in the starter feed in order to boost the immunity of those chicks.

Grower Feed

Next is Grower feed.  After 6 weeks, you can give them grower feed. This feed contains less protein compared to the starter feed. This provides the chick with an opportunity to grow steadily without gaining excessive weight which would have put a strain on their developing bones. Grower feed has a balanced combination of vitamins, carbohydrates and minerals which support their development until they are ready for the next phase of their lives.

Layer Feed

Your hens will be ready to lay eggs after 18 weeks, so you can start giving them layer feed. It is full of calcium which will support the formation of the eggshells. You should remember that the point-of-lay period of hens differ from each other depending on their breed so you will have to be patient.

Layer feed contains less protein compared to the grower feed. It also contains various types of vitamins and minerals like vitamin D which will help the chicken to absorb calcium.

Finisher Feed

Last but not the least is finisher feed. This type of feed is given especially to those chickens which are raised for their meat. It helps the chickens to gain weight quickly, thus helping in the production of leaner and tastier meat. It is generally given to the chickens in pellet form which makes it easier for them to consume.

Common Misconceptions Associated With Chicken Feed

Some common misconceptions which are associated with chicken feed are:

Medicated Feed Is Not Good For Chickens: Many people believe that medicated feed is harmful for chickens. However, this is a misconception. Medicated feed contains coccidiosis which is a common and dangerous parasitic infection in affecting young birds. Medicated feed is safe if proper guidelines are followed while using them. It plays an important role in maintaining overall flock health.

Chicken Feed Always Contains Antibiotics: Another misconception is that almost every chicken feed. The reality is quite different. There are strict regulations regarding the use of antibiotics in chicken feed.

It is recommended that you think about the type of feed you are giving to your chickens. The health and well-being of your birds depend on the type of feed given to them.