Introduction 🐓
Raising chickens is rewarding — fresh eggs, healthy meat, and the joy of keeping a lively flock. At Chicken Breeds For Sale, we want every customer who buys chickens online to feel confident in caring for their birds.
That’s why we’ve created this Poultry Care Guide, covering everything from housing and feeding to health and flock management.
Setting Up Your Poultry Housing
Space Requirements
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Chicks: 2 sq. ft. per bird in a brooder.
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Adults: 3–4 sq. ft. per bird inside the coop, plus outdoor run space.
Brooder Setup for Chicks
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Use a secure box or tub with bedding (pine shavings work best).
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Provide a heat lamp or brooder plate (start at 95°F, lowering by 5°F each week).
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Ensure fresh air circulation without direct drafts.
Coop Essentials for Adult Chickens
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Predator-proof walls and doors.
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Nesting boxes (1 box per 3–4 hens).
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Perches/roosting bars for sleeping.
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Easy-to-clean flooring and bedding.
👉 Tip: Always prepare your coop before your chickens arrive — it reduces stress for both you and the birds.
Feeding Your Chickens
Starter Feed (0–6 weeks)
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High-protein chick starter (18–20%).
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Medicated feed (optional) helps prevent coccidiosis.
Grower Feed (6–20 weeks)
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Lower protein (16–18%) as birds mature.
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Encourage strong development without excessive weight gain.
Layer Feed (20+ weeks)
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16% protein with added calcium for egg production.
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Provide oyster shell or crushed limestone as a supplement.
Treats & Extras
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Kitchen scraps, greens, grains, and scratch mix (in moderation).
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Fresh fruits and vegetables for enrichment.
⚠️ Avoid: Chocolate, avocado, onions, and salty foods — these are toxic to poultry.
Water & Hydration
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Always provide clean, fresh water — chickens drink more than you think!
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Use poultry waterers, not open bowls (prevents contamination).
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In winter, use heated waterers to prevent freezing.
Poultry Health & Wellness
Daily Care
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Observe your flock daily for signs of illness or injury.
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Check feathers, eyes, comb, and droppings.
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Maintain clean bedding and nesting boxes.
Common Health Issues
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Coccidiosis: Common in chicks — prevent with medicated starter or probiotics.
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Mites & Lice: Watch for feather loss or scratching; use approved dusting powders.
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Respiratory Illness: Ensure proper ventilation in the coop.
Vaccinations & Supplements
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Chicks may come vaccinated against common diseases.
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Provide grit (for digestion) and vitamin supplements when needed.
Raising Specialty Poultry
Meat Birds
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Fast growers — provide high-protein feed and plenty of space.
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Typically ready for processing at 6–8 weeks.
Laying Hens
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Pullets start laying around 20 weeks.
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Keep a consistent light schedule for year-round eggs.
Bantams & Pets
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Smaller in size but hardy and fun.
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Great for families and hobbyists.
Seasonal Poultry Care
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Spring: Prepare brooders for new chicks; check coop repairs.
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Summer: Provide shade, cool water, and dust baths.
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Fall: Molting season — offer extra protein.
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Winter: Insulate the coop and prevent water from freezing.
Quick Checklist for Happy Chickens
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✅ Safe, clean housing
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✅ Nutritious feed for each growth stage
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✅ Constant supply of fresh water
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✅ Protection from predators and extreme weather
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✅ Regular health checks and clean bedding
At Chicken Breeds For Sale, we don’t just offer chickens for sale — we provide the knowledge you need to raise them successfully.
👉 Explore our poultry categories today, order with confidence, and let this care guide help you build a happy, thriving flock.
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