When to switch chicken feed is a common question for new backyard chicken keepers. I get it! I had a lot of the same questions when I started out.
Knowing when to switch chicken feed is essential to ensure your flock remains healthy and productive throughout their life stages. But, before we dive into the timing of switching feeds, it’s important to understand the various types of feed available for each stage of life.
Starter Feed (0–6 Weeks)
Starter feed is a high-protein option (18-24% protein) formulated for chicks from hatch until about six weeks old. It’s packed with essential nutrients to support rapid growth and development. I also incorporate First Peep into my chicks’ starter feed for an extra boost to their immune, digestive and respiratory systems.
Grower Feed (6–16 Weeks)
Around six weeks of age, it’s time to transition to grower feed. This feed contains slightly less protein (16-18%) to support steady growth without promoting excessive weight gain too quickly.
Layer Feed (16–20 Weeks and Beyond)
Once hens start laying eggs, usually around 16–20 weeks, it’s time for layer feed. Layer feed includes extra calcium (and around 16-18% protein) to support strong eggshells and provide essential nutrients for laying hens. Always choose a high-quality layer feed—you’ll see the difference in your egg production!
Finisher Feed (For Meat Birds)
For meat birds, finisher feed is given during the final weeks before processing. This feed is high in protein and energy to promote weight gain. This makes them chunky! So, be sure to monitor your flock closely during this stage to ensure their health.
When to Switch Chicken Feed
Based on Age
The most straightforward factor for switching feed is your chickens’ age. Follow the general guidelines for feed types, but don’t stress if things overlap a little. For example, when integrating flocks of different ages, some younger chickens might start layer feed slightly earlier—and that’s okay.
Signs Your Chickens Need a Feed Change
Sometimes, your flock will show you it’s time for a change. Look for these signs:
Decline in Egg Production: This could indicate a nutritional deficiency. Switching to a high-quality layer feed may help.
Molting or Poor Feather Development: Upping protein during molting helps your chickens recover faster.
Digestive Issues: This might call for a different type of feed or gradual feed changes to prevent upset.
Weight Changes: Significant weight gain or loss might mean your flock’s current feed isn’t meeting their needs.
Managing Mixed Flocks and Special Needs
If you have a mixed flock or a sick chicken requiring extra nutrients like calcium or protein, managing feed can get tricky. Chickens are surprisingly intuitive and often eat what their bodies need. However, in special cases, you may need to separate sick or weaker birds temporarily to give them focused care and reintroduce them to the flock as soon as possible.
Transitioning Feeds
Switching feeds too quickly can cause digestive upset. To ease the transition:
Mix the Old Feed with the New: Gradually increase the ratio of new feed over several days.
Monitor Behavior: Ensure your flock continues to eat and behaves normally.
I also recommend adding Chicken E-lixir, a daily vitamin supplement, to their water during feed transitions. It’s an easy way to ensure your chickens are getting the nutrients they need.
Other Considerations
Chickens can be picky! My flock protested when I switched from crumble to pellets, but I stuck with it because pellets are less messy and keep the coop cleaner. While they didn’t love the change at first, they adjusted and are now thriving.
Keep it Simple
Switching chicken feed doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little research and by keeping an eye on your flock’s health and behavior, you’ll master feed transitions in no time.
Until next time,
–The Wing Lady
First Peep - Chick Feed Supplement
First Peep is a non-medicated chick feed supplement that naturally supports digestive health and gets baby chicks eating in the first few weeks of life.
Chicken E-lixir - Daily Vitamin for Chickens Chicken E-lixir is added to drinking water as a daily vitamin for keeping chickens healthy by promoting digestive health. For everyday use, it contains a unique blend of organic oregano essential oil, prebiotics, calcium, vitamins D & E and electrolytes.