This is because they are not growing so do not need as much energy when fully grown as well as not too much protein again because they are fully grown. However, they still need some protein, carbohydrates and calcium in order to have the strength and energy to produce eggs when they are laying.
When we were reading we ran into the question “Why do chickens need protein in their eggs?”.
In a eggshell, protein essentially helps the body grow. Even if your chickens aren’t getting any bigger they will still be producing feathers, cooking up eggs, growing their nails, all the normal things that bodies do.
Even if your chickens aren’t getting any bigger they will still be producing feathers, cooking up eggs, growing their nails, all the normal things that bodies do. Protein is the building blocks that make all of these things possible. How much protein does my chicken need? Chickens need different levels of protein at various stages in their life.
Generally speaking, protein is a more expensive ingredients, that’s why many chicken feed manufactures are conscious about reducing the amount of protein in their products when the chickens do not need it. Can I give my chicken too much protein? Your chickens can overdose on protein.
What is a chicken’s diet?
A chicken’s diet is a beautiful balancing act between vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates and of course protein. Protein, as many of us know, is basically the building blocks of existence, including eggs for that matter. There’s a reason why all those pumped up gym junkies scoff down cartons of raw eggs in the locker room and that reason is protein!
For chickens, a good protein source is essential for their muscles and overall growth. This is doubly true for hens who lay eggs: to them, a single egg laid is the nutritional drain equivalent of a human giving birth to a baby every single day!
How much protein should I Feed my chicks?
Chick feed, or starter feed, should have at least 20-24% protein to ensure healthy chickens. 7 weeks old chicks up to laying chicks need 14-16% protein. Regular chicken feed should have at least 15-18% protein to keep chickens healthy.