Best Feed for Chicks – 2025 Reviews

Medicated chick feeds contain Amprolium to help prevent coccidiosis, a common intestinal disease that can be fatal in young birds. This is especially valuable if your chicks are in crowded or high-risk environments. Non-medicated feeds are a natural alternative for owners who prefer to avoid medications, often suitable for small flocks in clean, low-stress settings. I’ve found that medicated options provide peace of mind for new poultry keepers, while experienced owners might opt for non-medicated if they can manage disease risks through other means.

Chicks need higher protein levels than adult chickens – typically 18-20% protein in starter feeds to support rapid muscle development, feather growth, and overall vitality. Lower protein can lead to stunted growth, while excessively high protein isn’t necessary and may cause issues. Look for feeds with balanced amino acids like lysine and methionine, which are crucial for skeletal health. From my testing, feeds in the 18-20% range consistently produced the healthiest, most vibrant birds.

Crumbles are the most common form for chick feeds – they’re small, easy to eat, and reduce waste compared to finer mashes. Mash is finer and can be good for very young chicks or fermenting, but it tends to be messier. Pellets are less common for starters but may be used for older birds. I always recommend crumbles for most situations because they’re perfectly sized for tiny beaks and encourage natural pecking behavior without frustration.

Organic and non-GMO feeds use ingredients grown without synthetic pesticides or genetic modification, appealing to owners who prioritize natural farming practices. These feeds often come with higher price tags but can contribute to better egg quality and flock health in the long run. If you’re raising chickens for eggs or meat consumption, organic options might be worth the investment for their perceived health benefits and environmental sustainability.

A complete chick feed should include vitamins A, D, E, and B-complex for immune function, bone development, and energy metabolism. Minerals like calcium and phosphorus are vital for strong skeletons, but note that too much calcium early on can harm chicks – it’s better reserved for layer feeds. Prebiotics and probiotics are valuable additions for digestive health, helping to maintain a balanced gut microbiome and reduce issues like pasty butt.

Chicks should stay on starter feed until they are 16-20 weeks old, or until they begin laying eggs. Switching too early can deprive them of essential nutrients, while delaying too long might not meet their changing needs. When transitioning, mix the old and new feeds gradually over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset. I’ve found that observing your birds’ development and egg production is the best guide for timing this change.

Typically, chicks should stay on starter feed until they are 16-20 weeks old, or until they begin laying eggs. The exact timing depends on the breed and development rate – faster-maturing breeds might transition earlier, while slower ones may need starter longer. Always monitor their growth and adjust based on individual flock needs.

Not necessarily. Medicated feed helps prevent coccidiosis, which is more common in crowded or stressful environments. If your chicks are in a clean, low-density space with good hygiene, non-medicated feed may be sufficient. However, medicated feed provides an extra layer of protection that many backyard keepers appreciate, especially for their first flock or in high-risk areas.

Chicks should have access to feed at all times, as they eat frequently throughout the day. On average, they’ll consume about 1-2 pounds of feed per chick during the first 6 weeks, but this varies by breed and individual appetite. Always keep feeders full and clean to ensure consistent nutrition and growth.

Crumbles are small, broken pellets that are easy for chicks to eat and reduce waste, making them ideal for most situations. Mash is a finer, powder-like form that can be good for very young chicks or fermenting, but it often leads to more mess and selective feeding. Both provide complete nutrition, so choose based on your chicks’ age and your management preferences.

Yes, most chick starters are suitable for ducklings, but ducklings have higher niacin requirements for proper leg and bone development. Some feeds are specifically formulated for both, or you may need to supplement with niacin if using standard chick feed. Always provide fresh water and monitor for any health issues when feeding ducklings.