Having chickens on your property provides a steady supply of fresh eggs for your family. Raising them is also an excellent learning experience for children, as they will see where their food comes from. Caring for chickens properly requires a variety of livestock supplies, and one of the most important is high-quality feed. Here are several varieties you can choose from to help you decide.

What Chicken Feed Should You Buy?

1. Starter

Newborn chicks under 6 weeks of age have specific dietary needs. Feeding them properly ensures they grow and develop into healthy adults, and starter feed is the best way to encourage their health. This type of feed has a substantial amount of protein, with this component making up 20% to 24% of the mixture. All feeds, including starters, can be provided in pellets, crumbles, or mash, which consists of loose ingredients.

2. Grower

This feed is perfect for chicks that are about 6 weeks old and developing at a healthy rate. It contains slightly less protein than starter blends, as older chicks may experience liver damage if their diet is too rich in this nutrient. It also lacks some of the minerals and vitamins found in feed designed for mature chickens who are laying eggs. This type helps bridge the gap between adolescence and adulthood in chickens.

3. Layer

Layer feed provides a more balanced mix of nutrients to support optimum egg-laying abilities among your flock. Most farmers make the switch to this feed when their chickens first begin laying eggs or reach 20 weeks of age, whichever comes first. While the protein content is similar to grower brands, layer feed contains a high amount of calcium to ensure eggshells are strong and robust. If you opt for this type, you can usually continue to feed it to chickens throughout their lives.

4. Scratch

Along with nutrition, chickens also need mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Scratch feed is made from oats and corn, which chickens love to eat. However, scratch lacks many essential nutrients, so many people use it as a treat for their flock. This is the perfect supplement to layer feed, as it shouldn't be used as a primary nutrition source.

If you need help finding the best livestock supplies for your chickens, visit Bethel Feed & Supply Pet & Garden Center. They have been serving residents throughout Clermont and Brown counties, OH, since 1984. They have a variety of livestock supplies for both small hobby farms and large operations. They also carry wild bird feed, garden supplies, and wood pellets. Visit the website to learn more about their products, and call (513) 734-2246 to speak with a team member.