Feed and supplements

As chicken owners, we hear a lot about the importance of providing our chickens with the proper nutrition, Chickens much like us need different nutrition during different stages of life, for example, you would not feed a baby chick adult chicken feed, or supplements. You need to make sure you’re providing nutrition for their specific stages in life, providing the right balance of nutrients necessary for proper development will give many years of healthy chickens and good-quality eggs.

Let discuss in more detail

Feeding your chickens a balanced diet is crucial for their health and productivity. Here’s what you need to know about chicken feed and supplements:

 

 

Chicken Feed:

Chicken feed comes in various forms, and the type you choose depends on the age and purpose of your chickens. The main types of chicken feed include:

 

Organic Soy Free Chick Starter Feed-Learn More.

• Starter Feed: This is typically given to newly hatched chicks up to around 6-8 weeks of age. It has a high protein content (usually around 20-24%) to support rapid growth and development.   

 

Organic Soy Free Grower Feed – Learn More.

• Grower Feed: Once chicks outgrow starter feed, you can switch to grower feed, which usually contains slightly less protein (around 16-18%). It’s suitable for chickens between 8-20 weeks old.

 

Organic Soy & Corn Free Layer Feed –Learn More.

• Layer Feed: Layer feed is specifically formulated for laying hens. It has a lower protein content (around 16%) but contains extra calcium to support eggshell formation. It’s typically fed to hens that are laying eggs.

 

Organic Olive Oil Grower/Broiler Feed – Learn More

• Broiler Feed: Broiler feed is designed for chickens raised for meat production (broilers). It has a high protein content (around 20-22%) to promote rapid muscle growth.

 

Organic Soy Free Layer Pellet Feed – Learn More.

• All-Purpose Pellet Feed: Our organic and medication-free Layer Feed is a “complete feed” containing everything your layers need to thrive. Our Certified Organic, Soy-Free 17% Protein Layer Feed Pellets are a complete nutritional feed of milled grain that’s supplemented with organic kelp, alfalfa, and Poultry Nutribalancer. Designed for adult laying hens, our layer feed is formulated with additional calcium for egg shell strength and organic flaxseed to increase the omega-3 content of the eggs.

 

Organic Scratch – Learn More.

• Organic, medication free, Scratch: Remember, scratch is a TREAT, to be offered like a “dessert” only. There’s a reason it’s called “chicken crack” — your flock will go absolutely bonkers for it, in the same way we might go bonkers for ice cream or cinnamon buns. But you wouldn’t eat ice cream for every meal, and nor should your hens regularly feast on scratch. Throw them a few handfuls now and again, however, and you’ll be BFFs.

 

When choosing feed, consider the specific needs of your chickens and consult the feed label for guidance on protein content and other nutritional information.

MORE FEED OPTIONS.

 

Supplements:

In addition to regular chicken feed, you may need to provide supplements to ensure your chickens receive all the necessary nutrients. Common supplements include:

 

Crushed Oyster Shells – Learn More.

• Calcium: Layers hens require extra calcium for eggshell formation. You can provide crushed oyster shells or limestone grit in a separate container for them to consume as needed.

 

Poultry Grit Plus – Learn More.

• Grits: Grit is important for any chickens fed scratch or allowed to range freely. Chickens don’t have teeth, and they store little rocks in their “crop”, which is where food goes before it enters their stomach. The rocks allow them to break down their food. Without it, your birds  will develop digestive issues. This grit is a digestive and calcium supplement! It’s made from crushed clamshell which dissolves quicker in the digestive tract allowing calcium to support egg shell hardness. If your chickens don’t have access to fresh pasture, or if the ground is frozen, grit is a “must” to keep them healthy. Offer it free choice, and don’t worry – they won’t overdo it.

 

Vitamins & Electrolytes for Poultry – Learn more.

• Vitamins and Minerals: Some chickens may benefit from vitamin and mineral supplements, especially if they are not getting a balanced diet. However, if you are feeding a quality commercial feed, additional supplements are often not necessary.

 

Hen Helper Probiotic Supplement –Learn More.

• Probiotic Supplements: You already know about the health benefits of probiotics – for us people and our animals alike, especially when antibiotics are being given – and Hen Helper improves upon other probiotic products for poultry by introducing beneficial levels of Humic and Fulvic acids to the formula. Scientific studies have shown that Humic acid, when added to the diet of poultry, provide a number of beneficial effects:
  
  • Improved resistance to pathogens and disease
  • Improved weight gain
  • Improved egg production
  • Increased egg size
  • Improved shell hardness
  • Decreased mortality

 

Happy Hen Treat Square, Sunflower & Mealworm – Learn more.

 

Happy Hen Treats Nesting Herbs – Learn More.

 

Happy Hen Treats Mealworm Frenzy – Learn More.

 

• Herbs and Treats: Some chicken keepers offer herbs, fruits, vegetables, or kitchen scraps as treats in moderation. These can be a source of additional nutrients and can also provide enrichment for the chickens. If Your looking for a treat that your chickens will absolutely love! Watch your chickens go wild for these delicious dried mealworms!  These tasty treats are easy to keep on hand without the inconvenience of storing and handling live worms.

 

Looking for more high-quality chicken treats to keep your backyard chicken flock happy. We offer healthy snacks for chickens and ducks, including dried mealworms, treat squares, and more. Click Here.

 

• Protein Supplements: In some cases, such as when raising chickens for meat, you may need to add protein supplements to their diet if the feed’s protein content is insufficient.

 

Offering supplements to your backyard flock will help you raise happy and healthy backyard chickens – who will then lay you healthy eggs! Get all-natural supplements at the best prices. Learn More.

 

It’s important to provide access to clean, fresh water at all times, as water is essential for digestion and overall health.

 

Keep in mind that the nutritional needs of chickens can vary depending on factors such as age, breed, and purpose. To ensure the health and well-being of your chickens, consult with a local poultry expert or veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations based on your chickens’ individual needs. Additionally, always store chicken feed in a cool, dry place to maintain its quality and freshness.

 

Browse our selection of Chicken Health supplies.