Feeding chickens properly is one of the most important aspects of raising a happy and healthy flock. New chicken owners often ask, “What should I feed my chickens, and how often?” With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right feed. In this guide, I’ll share my feeding routine, different types of chicken feed, and tips for maintaining a balanced diet for your flock.
Best Practices for Feeding Chickens
There are two common approaches to feeding chickens:
Twice-a-Day Feeding – Some owners prefer putting feed out twice a day. This method helps prevent pests like mice and rats from being attracted to leftover food. It works well for people who already have a set feeding schedule for other farm animals.
24/7 Access to Feed – I personally keep food and water inside the coop at all times. This ensures that every chicken, regardless of its place in the pecking order, gets enough to eat. In winter, I feed snacks and treats inside the coop, while in warmer months, I prefer feeding them outside.
Both methods work, so choose the one that best suits your flock’s needs and environment.
Different Types of Chicken Feed
Chickens require different types of feed at various stages of life. Here’s a breakdown of what to feed them:
1. Chick Starter Feed (0-8 Weeks Old)
- Comes in crumbles for easy digestion
- Available in medicated and non-medicated options
- High in protein (18-20%) to support rapid growth
My Preference: I use non-medicated chick crumble since I give my chicks natural supplements like First Peep, which supports their immune system.
2. Grower Feed (8-16 Weeks Old)
- Transition from chick starter to grower feed
- Contains 15-18% protein to support continued growth
- Helps young chickens develop into healthy adult hens
3. Layer Feed (16 Weeks and Older)
- Designed for laying hens
- Contains 16% protein and extra calcium for strong eggshells
- Available in pellets, crumbles, or mash
My Preference: I switch to pellets for my laying hens because they are less messy and reduce waste. Chickens may resist pellets at first, but they will adjust over time!
4. Meat Bird Feed (For Broilers)
- Specially formulated for meat chickens
- High in protein (20-24%) to promote rapid growth
- Fed throughout their short 6-8 week lifespan
How Much Feed Does a Chicken Need?
On average, a healthy adult chicken eats ¼ to ½ pound of feed per day. However, their dietary needs vary depending on:
- Age – Chicks require higher protein than adult chickens.
- Breed – High-production layers like ISA Browns eat more than heritage breeds.
- Activity Level – Free-range chickens eat less commercial feed since they forage for food.
For laying hens, it’s crucial to supplement their diet with extra calcium to support eggshell strength. I personally use Chicken E-lixir as a supplement to maintain eggshell quality.
Integrating Flocks With Different Feeds
Introducing new chickens to an existing flock can be challenging, especially when they need different feeds. Here’s how to manage it:
- Separate Feeding Areas – Keep chicks and adult hens in separate spaces so each group gets the right nutrition.
- Slow Introduction – Let both groups interact through a barrier before fully integrating them.
- Gradual Feed Transition – Slowly mix new feed into their diet over 1-2 weeks to prevent digestive issues.
- Monitor Behavior – Watch for bullying or competition during feeding time.
With patience and care, your flock will adjust to their new members and feeding routine.
Chicken Scratch: Treat or Feed?
Chicken scratch is a mix of grains like corn, wheat, and barley that chickens love, but it should only be given as a treat. It does not provide complete nutrition like commercial feed does.
Best Used As:
- A reward for training and taming chickens
- A way to encourage natural foraging behavior
- An enrichment activity—scattering scratch makes chickens work for their food
My Favorites: I use Happy Tract and Golden Graze as scratch for my flock. These treats are healthy and beneficial while keeping my chickens entertained!
What NOT to Feed Chickens
Not all foods are safe for chickens! Avoid feeding them:
Toxic Foods:
- Chocolate & Junk Food – High sugar and fat content is harmful.
- Avocado Pits & Skins – Contain persin, which is toxic.
- Green Potatoes & Tomato Leaves – Contain solanine, which can be poisonous.
Foods That Cause Digestive Issues:
- Raw Beans – Contain toxins that are lethal to chickens.
- Moldy or Rotten Food – Can make them sick.
- Excess Salt – Too much sodium can harm chickens.
Safe Treats:
- Fruits like apples, blueberries, and watermelon (in moderation)
- Vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, green beans, and lettuce
- Grains like oats and corn as occasional snacks
Feeding your chickens the right food at the right time ensures their health, productivity, and longevity. Whether you choose scheduled feeding or 24/7 access, the key is to provide a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.
- Chicks need high-protein starter feed.
- Young pullets require grower feed for development.
- Laying hens need layer feed with extra calcium.
- Meat birds require high-protein feed for rapid growth.
By avoiding harmful foods, integrating new flock members properly, and providing occasional treats like scratch, you can raise happy, healthy, and thriving chickens!
FAQ
How often should I feed my chickens?
You can either feed chickens twice a day or provide 24/7 access to feed. Choose the method that works best for your flock.
What type of feed should I give my chickens?
Chicks need starter feed, young pullets need grower feed, and laying hens require layer feed with extra calcium.
Can chickens eat table scraps?
Yes, but avoid salty, sugary, or toxic foods like chocolate, avocado, and raw potatoes.
