What Is Chick Feed?
Chick feed is a specially formulated diet designed to meet the nutritional needs of baby chickens (chicks) from the moment they hatch until they are ready to transition to an adult diet. Because chicks grow rapidly, they require a feed that offers higher levels of protein and other essential nutrients to support strong, healthy development.
Types of Chicken Feed
There are several types of chicken feed to meet the nutritional needs of birds at different ages. We’ll go through the five most common types—what each one is, why it’s used, and the key points to keep in mind.
1. Medicated Chick Feed
What It Is:
- Medicated feed contains medication-commonly amprolium-which helps prevent coccidiosis, a parasitic disease that commonly affects young chicks.
Why It’s Used:
- Young chicks have developing immune systems and are more susceptible to infection. Using medicated feed during their first weeks can help control or prevent outbreaks of coccidiosis, especially in high-density or less-than-ideal living conditions.
Key Points:
- Recommended if you have a higher risk of disease (e.g., large flocks, limited space, or a history of coccidiosis).
- It’s generally safe, but always follow guidelines on duration of use and withdrawal times if you plan to raise organic or antibiotic-free birds.
2. Non-Medicated Chick Feed
What It Is:
- Non-medicated feed does not include any medications or antibiotics. It still offers essential nutrients—like protein, vitamins, and minerals—required for proper growth and development.
Why It’s Used:
- Ideal if your environment is clean, you have smaller flocks, and the risk of disease is low. Some poultry owners also prefer a medication-free or organic approach to raising chicks.
Key Points:
- Maintain a sanitary and low-stress environment to prevent disease, since you’re not relying on medication.
- Monitor chicks closely for any signs of illness, especially coccidiosis, and have a backup plan (e.g., medication) if an outbreak occurs.
3. Crumbles
What It Is:
- Crumbles describe the size and texture of the feed rather than its nutritional content. Pellets are broken down into smaller pieces (“crumbles”), making them easier for chicks to consume.
Why It’s Used:
- Chicks have small beaks and need feed that’s manageable. Crumbles help ensure they eat enough without struggling with larger pellets or mash.
Key Points:
- Often used in Starter Grower feeds because it encourages higher feed intake and less waste.
- As birds mature, some owners switch to pellets to reduce wastage, but crumbles can be used at any stage if desired.
4. Starter Grower
What It Is:
- A formulated feed that provides the high protein (around 18–20%) and balanced nutrients chicks need from hatching until about 16 weeks of age. Some brands combine Starter and Grower into one feed; others have separate “Starter” (for the first 4–6 weeks) and “Grower” (for weeks 6–16).
Why It’s Used:
- Chicks grow rapidly and need more protein, vitamins, and minerals than adult chickens. Starter Grower feed ensures proper bone development, muscle growth, and immune support.
Key Points:
- Starter Grower can be medicated or non-medicated.
- Feeds labeled “Starter Grower” typically remain suitable up until point-of-lay (or around 16–18 weeks), after which you’d switch to a layer feed.
5. Layer Feed
What It Is:
- A feed formulated with higher calcium levels to support the production of strong eggshells. Protein levels may be slightly lower than Starter Grower feed, typically around 16–18%.
Why It’s Used:
- Designed for hens actively laying eggs. The extra calcium helps form sturdy shells; insufficient calcium can lead to thin or soft-shelled eggs.
Key Points:
- Should not be given to chicks or younger birds because the elevated calcium content can harm their developing kidneys and bones.
- Usually introduced around 16–20 weeks of age, or at the onset of laying, whichever comes first.
Feeding Schedule: How Long Do Chicks Need Starter?
Most experts recommend feeding Chick Starter Grower (either medicated or non-medicated) from hatching until about 16 weeks of age. The exact duration depends on the chick’s breed and rate of growth, but 16 weeks is a good benchmark.
When to Transition Chicks to Regular Feed
Once your chicks are 16–20 weeks old, they’re usually ready to switch from starter feed to a grower or layer feed (depending on whether they’re laying breeds or not). At this point, they’ve benefited from the higher protein content and specialized formulation of starter feed.
How to Transition
- Gradually mix the new feed with the old feed over the course of a week.
- Increase the proportion of the new feed each day to help prevent digestive issues.
What Goes Into Chick Starter Feed?
Chick starter combines grains (like corn and wheat) for energy, plus high-quality proteins for muscle growth. Aim for a feed containing at least 18% protein to support rapid development.
- Calcium for bone strength.
- Amino acids for healthy growth.
- Essential minerals such as zinc, iron, and manganese.
- (Medicated options include Amprolium to guard against coccidiosis.)
Difference Between Chick Feed and Chicken Feed
- Nutritional Composition
- Chick Feed: Higher protein content to support rapid growth.
- Chicken Feed: Formulated for mature birds, with nutrients focused on maintenance and egg production.
- Calcium Levels
- Layer Feed (adult layers): Higher in calcium to support strong eggshells.
- Chicks: Don’t require as much calcium; too much can cause health problems.
- Transition Period
- Chick Starter → Grower Feed → Layer Feed (for egg-laying hens).
- Each feed type addresses specific nutritional needs at different life stages.
How to Feed Baby Chickens: Chick Feeders
Using chick feeders (as opposed to sprinkling feed on the ground) offers several advantages:
- Keeps feeding areas cleaner and reduces waste.
- Controls portion sizes, ensuring chicks get the nutrients they need.
- Minimizes disease risk by preventing direct contact with contaminated ground.
- Makes it easier to monitor and manage how much each chick is eating.
Where to Buy Chick Feed
If you live in or near Snohomish County, check out your local Co-op for a variety of chick feed options. Many farm supply stores and online retailers also carry a range of brands and formulations.
Dangerous Foods for Chicks
While chickens can safely enjoy many foods, some should be avoided—especially for baby chicks:
- Raw potatoes
- Onions
- Unripe tomatoes
- Eggplant
- Avocado
- Salty, sweet, or fried foods
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
Avoid anything moldy or spoiled. Remember, excessive dairy can cause diarrhea in chicks, and too much citrus can deplete calcium over time, leading to soft-shelled eggs. Foods from the nightshade family (like unripe tomatoes and eggplant) can also cause adverse reactions.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right feed and following recommended feeding practices is crucial for raising strong, healthy chickens. By understanding the distinctions between medicated and non-medicated feeds, transitioning properly at the right life stage, and avoiding dangerous foods, you’ll set your flock up for a successful start.
