What Are the Best Feeds for Raising Healthy Backyard Chickens? Raising a backyard flock brings joy and fresh eggs to your table. However, your chickens need specific nutrition to thrive. You cannot rely on kitchen scraps alone. A balanced diet keeps hens healthy and ensures they lay delicious eggs. Finding the right feed might seem confusing, but it largely depends on the age of your birds.

Match Feed to Life Stages

Your chickens have different nutritional needs as they grow. Baby chicks grow very fast. They require high protein levels to build strong muscles and feathers. You should feed them a “Starter” crumble for the first several weeks. This provides the energy they need to survive.

As they become teenagers, switch them to a “Grower” feed. This formula supports consistent development without pushing them too hard before they are ready to lay.

The Importance of Layer Feed

Once your hens lay their first eggs, switch to a “Layer” feed immediately. This is a crucial step. Layer feed contains high levels of calcium. Hens need this calcium to produce strong, hard eggshells. If they lack calcium, they will lay soft eggs and their own bones will weaken. You can usually choose between pellets or crumbles. Pellets often result in less waste, while some birds prefer the texture of crumbles.

Treats and Hydration

Many owners love throwing “scratch grains” to their flock. You must use scratch only as a treat. Think of it as candy for chickens. It lacks the complete nutrition found in their main feed. Too much scratch upsets their diet. Finally, never neglect water. Fresh, clean water is essential for digestion and egg production.

Healthy chickens start with high-quality food. Visit New Braunfels Feed & Supply today. We will help you select the perfect feed for every stage of your flock’s life.