How much to feed?

[moodusnewchick]

Do chickens overeat? Do I need to worry about obesity and weight related illness? I'm planning to freerange and provide store bought food. Do chickens monitor "enough is enough" or do they just keep eating till it's all gone?
thanks.

 

[MissPrissy]

Give them feed choice feed at all times. Chickens are very good about regulating their own needs. You don't have to worry about them eating themselves to death. When laying they have a big appetite and they eat to satisfy their own nutritional needs. If you notice feather eating and picking you know they aren't getting enough protein.

 

[silkiechicken]

Only way to get "obese" chickens is to give them too much corn. If you provide a good layer ration or chick ration for their age, they don't have to overeat to get the nutrition they need. They know when to stop.

 

[wynedot55]

i give my hens free choice layer pellets.i have a 100lb feeder that i put their feed in.an let them eat all they want.