How much to feed

[emsteve]

I am very new to raising chickens. I have 11 chicks thay are 12 to 16 weeks old doing very well but i dont know how much to feed them they seem to be hungry all the time please help Emma in florida

 

[MissPrissy]

They should have full feedesr all the time. They are eating machines - and wasters. LOL

Keep feed crumbles and fresh clean water for them 24/7.

 

[Nuggetsowner:)]

I feed mine Starter- feed available at all times untill they are about 16 weeks then switch to a pullet feed- available at all times - till they start to lay then layer feed the same way. I also give them oyster shell -free choice once they reach about 20weeks. Oh, and of course they all get treats each day. Sometimes fruit, sometimes veggies, sometimes black oil sunflower seeds, sometimes cat food. I know that last one seems strange but it seems to be their favorite!

 

[gritsar]

Actually cat food isn't that strange, since it's a good source of protein. I'm waiting till mine get just a tad older before I try it though specifically for that reason, the protein.
I also believe in food and water available 24/7. And it kills me to not be offering them treats all the time, but I am very stingy with them. Their diet really shouldn't consist of more than about 10% treats.

 

[KPort Chick]

I give my 5 week old chicks (4 Buffs and 2 silkies) a small plate of shredded carrots or strawberries and oatmeal twice a day. Is that too much? Otherwise they fly right through the chick crumbles. They go through a 5 lb bag in less than a week. Is that normal?

 

[moodusnewchick]

I feel so mean right now. I've been rationing food b/c they get lots of treats (fruit, veggies, yogurt...tried apples and applesauce, they're not liked yet), they free range and they waste so much feed. So if they have food 24/7 is there a chance they will overeat and have weight related concerns? and I know you're supposed to have feed available for meat birds at all times, but what harm comes from not giving them 24/7 feed?

 

[cluckychick]

I have feed and water available 24/7. My feed is a mix of starter and layer as the bag says to start the layer feed 4 weeks prior to laying so I mixed it with the starter. I also give them treats/leftovers once a day. I usually have something in the fridge or like tonight they had pieces of bell pepper, onion, yougurt diced and mixed. Tomorrow will probably be some cantalope rines I have leftover for them.