Transitioning Your Chicks to Layer Feed: A Step-by-Step Guide

Spring is here, and as your chicks grow, it’s essential to support their development with the proper nutrition at every stage. One of the key milestones in raising healthy hens is transitioning them to a complete chicken layer feed when they begin laying eggs. Here’s everything you need to know about making that transition seamlessly.

1. When to Transition: The 18-Week Mark

At around 18 weeks, your chicks are reaching adulthood and will start laying eggs. This is when you must transition them from their starter-grower feed to a complete layer feed. Why 18 weeks? This is the age when hens require different nutrients to support egg production. Laying eggs demands high levels of calcium, protein, and other essential vitamins and minerals, so a complete layer feed is necessary.

2. Choose the Right Layer Feed

Selecting the right layer feed depends on your flock’s goals. Several great options include everything your hens need to stay strong and lay high-quality eggs. When choosing a complete layer feed, make sure it includes:

  • 16% protein for strength
  • At least 3.25% calcium to promote strong eggshells
  • Essential vitamins and minerals for overall health

Purina® offers a variety of options, including:

  • Purina® Layena® Pellets or Crumbles (the most popular)
  • Purina® Layena® Omega-3, with added omega-3 fatty acids
  • Purina® Layena® High Protein, with 19% protein and black fly soldier fly larvae
  • Purina® Organic Layer Feed, Certified USDA Organic

Additionally, these feeds contain the Oyster Strong® System, a blend of oyster shell, vitamin D, and manganese, to help your hens lay strong-shelled, nutritious eggs.

3. Gradually Transition Over One Week

Once your hens reach 18 weeks or begin laying, it’s important to transition them slowly to layer feed. Mix the starter-grower feed with the layer feed to avoid digestive upset for about 4-5 days. You can start with equal parts of both feeds. If your hens are used to crumbles, start with a crumble layer feed to make the switch easier. Gradually increase the proportion of layer feed until they are entirely switched over. Most hens will adjust within a few days, though some may take a couple of weeks.

4. Consistency is Key

Once the transition is complete, it’s essential to maintain a consistent feeding routine. Provide free-choice layer feed every morning and evening. Laying hens typically eat about 0.25 pounds (half a cup) of daily feed. If your hens are free-ranging, feed them before they go out in the morning so they consume the essential nutrients before filling up on less nutritionally balanced insects or plants. The complete feed should make up at least 90% of their diet.

 5. Supporting Your Flock’s Health

A healthy, well-fed hen is the key to consistent egg production. By feeding your hens a complete layer feed like Purina® Layena®, you provide them with the necessary nutrients for strong eggshells, rich yolks, and overall good health.

Next-Level Ingredients to Look For:

  • For vibrant yolks: Marigold extract
  • For strong eggshells: Oyster Strong® System
  • For immune and digestive health: Prebiotics and probiotics
  • For omega-rich eggs, Added omega-3 fatty acids

Why Purina? Purina® chicken feeds are formulated to meet all your hens’ nutritional needs, ensuring they stay healthy and lay delicious, quality eggs daily.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning your chicks to layer feed is essential in ensuring your hens are healthy, strong, and productive. Whether raising chickens for eggs or just enjoying caring for your flock, choosing the right feed and following a smooth transition process will make all the difference.

Ready to make the switch? Visit G Five Feed and Outdoor for Purina® layer feeds and more, and sign up for our monthly newsletter for store specials, new products, and upcoming events!

Source: Purina Feeds

« More posts