If you’re looking for the best feed for your laying hens chickens, there are several factors you need to consider before making a purchase. One of the most critical factors is the type of feed ingredients used in production. A quality hens chicken feed should contain major ingredients such as corn, wheat, and soybean meal. When choosing the feed, ensure that it is well-balanced with the right proportion of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals for optimal egg production and overall bird health.
In addition, it is essential to consider the form of the feed. The best feed for laying hens chickens is the pelleted or crumbled feed form as it provides better nutrient density and reduces wastage compared to the mash form. Before buying, ensure that the feed is made from high-quality raw materials, free from additives, and has met all the nutritional requirements for the laying hens.
Are you struggling to find the best feed for your hens chickens? Do you want to maximize the egg production from your fowl? Keep reading to discover some cost-effective feed options that can help take your poultry game to the next level. Would you like to learn more about the benefits of investing in quality feed for the health and wellbeing of your poultry? Read on to find out.
10 Best Feed For Laying Hens Chickens
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This product is ideal for supplementing the diet of chickens and ducks to aid in healthy gizzard development.
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This product is ideal for feeding backyard chickens with a non-GMO layer formula.
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Ideal for providing a nutritionally balanced diet to laying hens to promote healthy egg production.
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Ideal for feeding organic layers and improving egg quality.
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The product is ideal for providing calcium supplements to egg-laying chickens.
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The product is ideal for providing complete nutritional requirements for laying hens.
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This product is ideal for enhancing egg production in laying hens by providing a nutritious feed supplement.
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It is ideal for feeding layer hens a nutritious diet that promotes egg production and includes Omega-3.
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This product is ideal for providing nutrition for a variety of birds including chickens, quail, turkeys, ducks, pheasant, geese, hens, roosters, and poultry.
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Manna Pro Layer Pellets are ideal for feeding laying hens with non-GMO and organic high protein feed.
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1. Cluckin' Good Grit – 7lbs – Poultry Supplement.
Scratch and Peck Feeds Cluckin' Good Poultry Grit is a necessary addition to your bird's diet, as it is made up of insoluble crushed quartzite or granite, which remains in the bird's gizzard to aid in digestion. This grit is essential for your bird's health and should always be provided.
It is recommended to start giving the poultry grit to your birds after they reach 20 weeks of age. The Layer Grit is suitable for all laying hens, while broilers should switch directly from the Chick Grit to the Layer Grit at four weeks of age.
Scratch and Peck Feeds Cluckin' Good Poultry Grit is available in three convenient sizes: Chick, Grower, and Layer. The Layer Grit can be offered either free choice in a separate dish or by tossing it on the ground in their coop.
Using the appropriately sized grit allows for the maximum nutrient benefit from whole grain chicken feed. It is recommended to feed the grit to developing pullets and full-grown hens and roosters at around 20 weeks of age.
In the wild, chickens would naturally seek out and consume grit to aid in digestion. By providing Scratch and Peck Feeds Cluckin' Good Poultry Grit, you are promoting healthy habits in your birds. The mother hen would teach her chicks to pick up little stones to aid in digestion, and they would naturally gravitate towards picking up such stones.
2. Prairie's Choice Non-Gmo Backyard Chicken Feed – Layer Formula, 25lbs
Looking for a high-quality chicken feed that will keep your flock healthy and productive? Look no further than Egg Layer Formula all natural backyard chicken feed! This feed is made from all-natural ingredients and is eligible for Prime Shipping, so you can have it delivered right to your door in no time.
One of the best things about Egg Layer Formula is that it's grown and packaged right here in the USA. That means you can rest assured that you're getting a high-quality product that's been made with care and attention to detail. Plus, because it's made from all-natural ingredients, you can feel good about feeding it to your backyard chickens.
But what really sets Egg Layer Formula apart is its superior nutrition. This feed has been specially formulated to provide your chickens with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and productive. Whether you're raising chickens for eggs or meat, you can count on Egg Layer Formula to help them thrive.
So if you're looking for a high-quality chicken feed that will keep your flock healthy and productive, look no further than Egg Layer Formula all natural backyard chicken feed. With its all-natural ingredients, USA-grown and packaged quality, and superior nutrition, it's the perfect choice for backyard chicken enthusiasts everywhere.
3. Purina Animal Nutrition Layena Crumbles 50lb 50
Introducing Purina's specially formulated pet food with added marigold extract, offering your furry friend a balanced and complete diet. This premium pet food is packed with essential amino acids, calcium, manganese, and trace minerals, providing your pet with the necessary nutrients for a healthy and happy life.
Marigold extract is included in this pet food to promote healthy vision and a strong immune system. This natural ingredient is known to be rich in lutein, which is essential for maintaining good eye health. Additionally, the balanced and complete formula ensures that your pet receives all the required nutrients to thrive.
The pet food contains calcium, which is crucial for bone strength and health. Manganese and trace minerals are also included in the diet to support the overall health and well-being of your pet. With this pet food, you can be sure that your furry friend is receiving a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional requirements.
Furthermore, the pet food contains essential amino acids, which are vital for muscle development and repair. These amino acids help to support your pet's growth and development, ensuring that they maintain a healthy weight and build lean muscle mass.
4. Purina Organic Layer Crumbles Chicken Feed , 35 Lb
This product boasts a certification from the USDA, ensuring that it is made without the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The Oyster Strong System, which is included in this product, is notable for its large-particle calcium that breaks down steadily throughout the egg formation process, ensuring that calcium is available to the hen during the entire process. The product also contains 16% protein and 3.25% calcium, providing the necessary nutrients to maintain hen health and support consistent egg production. The essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals present in this product help to produce wholesome eggs and beautiful feathering. Additionally, this product is rich in antioxidants which support both immune and digestive health. With these features, this product is an excellent choice for those looking to support healthy egg production and overall hen wellness.
5. Eggcellent Calcium Boost For Laying Hens.
For those seeking to provide their laying poultry with essential calcium, this crushed oyster shell product is a must-have. Ideal for chicken, duck, and quail flocks, both small and large, it's the perfect addition to any feed blend, from backyard flocks to commercial farms.
This crushed oyster shell and coral calcium blend is an excellent source of calcium that's easily digestible for your feathered friends. This calcium-rich blend ensures that they receive the necessary nutrients for proper eggshell formation, resulting in high-quality eggs and a healthier flock overall.
The oyster shells are heat-treated for maximum purity and cleanliness, free of harmful contaminants, bacteria, and pathogens. This ensures that your poultry can consume it safely, promoting optimal health.
Proudly made in the USA, this crushed oyster shell product uses only the finest ingredients. By choosing this domestically made product, you can guarantee that your birds receive a high-quality, trustworthy product.
6. Purina Layena | Nutritionally Complete Layer Hen Feed Pellets | 25 Pound (25 Lb) Bag
The chicken feed in question has several key ingredients that can benefit both the birds and their egg production. One of the key components is marigold extract, which contains a high level of xanthophyll – a coloring agent that contributes to the rich yellow color of egg yolks. This means that consumers who purchase eggs from chickens fed with this product can expect to see a deeper hue in their yolks.
In addition to marigold extract, the feed is also packed with calcium, manganese, and trace minerals, which are essential for strong eggshells. This ensures that the eggs produced by these chickens will be of high quality and less likely to break during transportation or storage.
The feed is also enhanced with essential amino acids lysine and methionine, which provide the birds with the nutrients they need to produce plenty of wholesome and delicious eggs. These amino acids also promote beautiful feathering, which can be a desirable trait for those who keep chickens for ornamental purposes.
Another key feature of this chicken feed is its high levels of vitamins A, D, and E. Vitamin A is particularly important for the healthy growth and development of birds, while vitamins D and E are essential for overall health and strong reproduction. This means that chickens fed with this product are likely to be healthier and more productive than those fed with other types of feed.
Finally, the feed also contains prebiotics, probiotics, and yeast, which can support the immune and digestive health of the birds. This means that they are less likely to get sick or develop digestive problems, which can be a major concern for those who keep chickens.
7. Omega Egg Maker – Chicken Food Supplement.
Manna Pro Omega Egg Maker is a specially designed supplement that offers complete support to laying hens. The supplement contains Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which are essential for the proper growth and development of hens.
In addition, Manna Pro Omega Egg Maker is formulated with direct-fed microbials that support optimal digestion in hens. This ensures that the hens are able to digest their food effectively, resulting in better nutrient absorption and overall health.
The unique ingredient combination in Manna Pro Omega Egg Maker also supports rich-colored egg yolks. This means that the eggs produced by the hens who consume this supplement will have a more vibrant and appealing color.
Moreover, Manna Pro Omega Egg Maker is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to the overall health and well-being of the hens. This results in the production of hearty, fresh eggs that meet your expectations.
8. Purina Layena+ | Nutritionally Complete Layer Hen Feed | Omega 3 Formula – 40 Pound (40 Lb) Bag
This product is specifically formulated to enhance the nutritional value of eggs. By incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, each large egg produced contains 250 mg of this essential nutrient compared to the 50 mg found in traditional, store-bought eggs. Additionally, marigold extract is included to ensure brightly colored yolks.
Not only does this product improve the nutritional content of eggs, but it also supports the overall health of hens. With a protein content of 16% and 3.50% calcium, the formula helps to maintain hen health and promote consistent egg production. The inclusion of essential amino acids, such as lysine and methionine, also helps to produce wholesome eggs and improve feathering.
Furthermore, this product contains prebiotics and probiotics that support the immune and digestive health of hens. This ensures that the hens remain healthy and happy, which in turn leads to high-quality eggs.
9. Chick Crack: High-Protein Poultry Treats!
Introducing the must-have treat for any chicken owner – Chicken Crack! This 5 lb. bag of chicken treats is made with a special mix of certified organic grains, sunflower seeds, mealworms, river shrimp and more. The best part? It contains absolutely no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, making it a healthy and natural choice for your feathered friends.
Not only is Chicken Crack delicious, it's also packed with essential nutrients that will keep your entire flock healthy and happy. Unlike other chicken treats, this natural mix contains calcium, fiber, protein, and good fats that can improve the quality of your chickens' eggs. Plus, the flax seeds in this organic chicken treat add Omega-3 and Omega-6, which can lead to healthier eggs and glossy plumage.
This premium chicken mix is made with only the best ingredients, including organic cracked corn, rye, barley, buckwheat, sunflower seeds, dried mealworms, organic flax seed, and dried river shrimp. This ensures that your chickens receive a complete and balanced diet, leading to maximum production, energy, health, and happiness. And the best part? It's proudly made in the USA by a woman-owned company.
Feeding your chickens Chicken Crack is easy – simply hand feed them or sprinkle it on the ground or in a dish. Your chickens will love this treat and they'll come running for more after you've shared this healthy protein snack with them. It's a smart way to add nutrients to their diet and is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional chicken scratch.
10. Organic High-Protein Layer Pellets: 30 Lbs.
Manna Pro Organic Layer Feed is the perfect solution for those who are looking for a nutritious and complete feed for their laying hens. The feed is USDA Organic and Non-GMO certified, which ensures that it is free from any harmful chemicals and genetically modified organisms.
The feed comes in an easy-to-feed pellet form that helps eliminate waste and is suitable for both chickens and ducks. It is specially crafted for laying hens that are 16 weeks and older, providing them with the necessary nutrients to lay eggs.
Manna Pro Organic Layer Feed is high in protein, which is essential for the growth and development of your hens. The feed is also free of artificial colors or flavors, ensuring that your hens are getting superior nutrition without any harmful additives.
By feeding your flock Manna Pro Organic Layer Feed, you can rest assured that your eggs will be organic and delicious. This feed is the perfect choice for those who are looking for a natural and healthy option for their hens.
Best Feed For Laying Hens Chickens FAQs
Can I feed my laying hens table scraps or leftovers?
Yes, you can feed your laying hens table scraps or leftovers, but it is important to do so in moderation and with caution. While chickens are known to be omnivores and can eat a variety of foods, it is important to ensure that their diet is balanced and nutritious. Feeding too many table scraps or leftovers can lead to an unbalanced diet that lacks the necessary nutrients for egg production.
It is also important to avoid feeding your chickens any spoiled or moldy food, as this can make them sick. Additionally, certain foods such as avocado, chocolate, and caffeine should be avoided as they are toxic to chickens.
When feeding your chickens table scraps or leftovers, it is important to supplement their diet with a high-quality commercial feed that is specifically formulated for laying hens. This will ensure that they are receiving all of the necessary vitamins and minerals for healthy egg production.
Overall, feeding your laying hens table scraps or leftovers can be a great way to supplement their diet and reduce waste, but it should be done in moderation and with caution to ensure their health and wellbeing.
Can I mix different types of feed for my laying hens?
Yes, you can mix different types of feed for your laying hens, but it is important to do so carefully and with the appropriate ratios. Laying hens require a balanced diet that includes a specific amount of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to maintain their health and productivity.
When mixing feed, it is important to ensure that the protein content is appropriate for your hens' needs. For example, layer feed typically contains around 16% protein, while starter feed may contain up to 20% protein. If you mix these feeds together, you will need to adjust the ratios to ensure that the final protein content is appropriate for your hens.
It is also important to consider the quality of the ingredients you are using in your feed mix. Low-quality or moldy ingredients can be harmful to your hens and may lead to health issues or decreased egg production.
Overall, mixing different types of feed for your laying hens can be a cost-effective way to provide them with a balanced diet, but it is important to do so carefully and with the appropriate ratios to ensure their health and productivity.
How do I choose the best feed for my specific breed of laying hens?
Choosing the best feed for your specific breed of laying hens is essential to ensure their optimal health and productivity. The first step is to research your breed's nutritional requirements, such as protein, calcium, and other essential vitamins and minerals. You can consult with a poultry nutritionist or veterinarian to help you determine the best feed for your hens.
Next, you should consider the age of your hens, as their nutritional needs change throughout their life cycle. For example, younger hens require higher protein levels and a balanced diet for proper growth and development, while older hens need less protein and higher levels of calcium for eggshell production.
When selecting feed, choose high-quality sources of protein, such as soybean meal or fish meal, and select feeds that are free from harmful additives, chemicals, and artificial ingredients. Look for feeds that are specifically formulated for laying hens and are appropriate for your breed's specific nutritional needs.
In summary, choosing the best feed for your specific breed of laying hens requires research, consultation with experts, and consideration of your hens' age and nutritional needs. With the right feed, you can help ensure your hens live healthy and productive lives.
How much feed should I give my laying hens per day?
As a general rule of thumb, laying hens require around ¼ to ⅓ pounds of feed per day, per bird. However, the exact amount of feed your hens need can vary depending on a few factors such as their age, breed, size, and activity level.
For example, younger birds require more protein in their diet to support their growth and development, while older birds may need less protein and more nutrients to maintain their health and egg production. Likewise, larger breeds of hens may require more feed than smaller breeds.
It's important to provide your hens with a well-balanced and nutritious diet to ensure they are healthy and productive. You can choose to feed them a commercial layer feed or create your own mix using grains, protein sources, and supplements.
You can monitor your hens' feed intake by measuring the amount of feed you provide each day and checking how much is left over. Adjust the amount of feed accordingly to ensure your hens are getting the right amount for their needs.
Should I provide additional calcium supplements for my laying hens?
Providing additional calcium supplements for laying hens is important to ensure the proper development of their eggshells. Calcium is an essential mineral that helps in the formation of strong and healthy eggshells. Deficiency of calcium can lead to thin-shelled eggs, which are more prone to breaking.
Laying hens require a high amount of calcium in their diet, and the majority of it comes from their feed. However, if the feed is inadequate in providing enough calcium, it is essential to supplement it with additional sources. The most common source of calcium for laying hens is oyster shells. Crushed oyster shells can be provided in a separate feeder, and hens can access it whenever they need it.
It is important to provide the right amount of calcium supplements to laying hens. Too little or too much can be harmful to their health and egg production. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a poultry nutritionist or a veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of calcium supplements for your laying hens.
Should I use medicated or non-medicated feed for my laying hens?
The decision to use medicated or non-medicated feed for your laying hens depends on various factors. Medicated feed contains antibiotics that are added to prevent and control diseases, whereas non-medicated feed does not.
If your hens are healthy, you may not need medicated feed. However, if they are prone to diseases or have been exposed to infections, medicated feed could be the best option. Medicated feed can also be used as a preventative measure, especially if you have a large flock.
It is important to note that using medicated feed can lead to antibiotic resistance, which can be harmful to both your hens and humans. Therefore, it is recommended to use medicated feed only when necessary and under the guidance of a veterinarian.
On the other hand, non-medicated feed can be a good option if you want to avoid the use of antibiotics and promote natural health in your hens. However, it is essential to ensure that your hens have access to clean water, a balanced diet, and proper sanitation practices to maintain their health.
Ultimately, the decision to use medicated or non-medicated feed depends on your specific situation, and it is best to consult with a veterinarian or poultry specialist for guidance.
What are the benefits of using organic feed for laying hens?
Using organic feed for laying hens has several benefits for both the hens and consumers. First and foremost, organic feed is free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, which means that the hens are not exposed to harmful chemicals that can affect their health and well-being. This, in turn, can result in healthier and more productive hens that lay high-quality eggs.
Organic feed also contains a higher percentage of nutrients that are essential for the hens' growth, development, and egg production. These nutrients are sourced from natural and sustainable sources, such as grains, seeds, and legumes, which are free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and other harmful additives.
Moreover, using organic feed for laying hens is beneficial for consumers as well. Organic eggs are free from harmful residues of synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, and hormones, which can pose serious health risks. They are also richer in nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, which can improve overall health and well-being.
In conclusion, using organic feed for laying hens is a sustainable and healthier option that benefits both the hens and consumers. It promotes animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and healthier food choices.
What is the best feed for laying hens to increase egg production?
The best feed for laying hens to increase egg production is a balanced diet that meets all their nutritional needs. The diet should consist of high-quality protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals. A typical laying hen diet should contain around 16% protein and 3.5% calcium. Calcium is essential for the production of strong eggshells.
The most common types of feed for laying hens are layer pellets or crumbles. They are formulated to provide all the necessary nutrients for optimal egg production. Layer feed usually contains a higher calcium content compared to other types of poultry feed. This is because eggshells are made of calcium carbonate.
It is also essential to provide your hens with fresh, clean water at all times. Hydration is critical for egg production, and hens need to drink water regularly throughout the day.
In summary, feeding your laying hens a balanced diet that includes layer feed and fresh, clean water is the best way to increase egg production.
What is the best feed schedule for laying hens?
Laying hens require a balanced diet to ensure optimal egg production and overall health. The best feed schedule for your laying hens will depend on several factors such as age, breed, weight, and environmental conditions.
Typically, laying hens require a diet that is high in protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. A good feed schedule for laying hens is to provide them with a complete layer feed that contains all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions.
It is best to feed laying hens twice a day, in the morning and evening, to ensure that they have access to food throughout the day. Additionally, providing access to clean water at all times is crucial as water plays a critical role in egg production.
It is important to monitor the feed intake of your hens to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding them. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and health problems, while underfeeding can result in decreased egg production.
In summary, a balanced diet provided twice a day with access to clean water is the best feed schedule for laying hens.
What is the ideal protein level for laying hen feed?
The ideal protein level for laying hen feed is generally considered to be around 16-18%. However, the specific protein requirements can vary depending on factors such as the breed of the hen, age, and the stage of production.
During the early stages of egg production, hens require a higher protein diet to support the development of their reproductive systems. As egg production slows down, the protein requirements may decrease.
It's important to ensure that the protein in the feed is of high quality and contains all of the essential amino acids that hens need for optimal health and egg production. Common sources of protein in laying hen feed include soybean meal, corn gluten meal, and fish meal.
It's also essential to provide hens with access to clean water and a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals. Providing a balanced diet that meets the specific nutritional needs of laying hens can help ensure optimal health and egg production.