SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/chick-starter-feed

What should newly hatched chicks eat?

Feed chicks starter feed, not layer feed.

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  1. Starter feed ✔
  2. Layer feed
  3. Plain scratch grains

Why: Starter feed has the extra protein fast-growing chicks need. Layer feed has too much calcium for growing birds and can damage their kidneys.

Huh, didn't know that: Chicks eat starter until about 6 weeks old, then switch to a grower feed.

The dad joke
What do chicks order at breakfast? Starter cereal.
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References

Answer: Starter feed. Starter feed has the extra protein fast-growing chicks need. Layer feed has too much calcium for growing birds and can damage their kidneys.

  1. Oregon State University Extension: How to Feed Your Laying Hens (PNW 477) extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/default/files/documents/pnw477.pdf
    Feed newly hatched chicks a starter diet until they are about 6 weeks old.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual: Management of Backyard Poultry www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/backyard-poultry/management-of-backyard-poultry
    Nonlaying, growing birds should not be fed high-calcium layer diets, which can lead to irreversible renal damage.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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