Calculate ongoing feed costs

Feed is typically the largest ongoing expense. A laying hen eats roughly 1/4 lb of feed per day ($15-25/month per 6 hens at typical feed prices). A miniature dairy goat consumes 2-4 lbs of hay plus 1-2 lbs of grain daily ($30-60/month per goat). Meat rabbits eat about 1/2 cup of pellets plus unlimited hay per day ($10-15/month per rabbit).

Why It Works

Knowing exact feed costs per animal per month lets you calculate whether the eggs, milk, or meat you produce are actually saving money compared to store-bought. Most backyard operations do not break even on feed costs alone — the value is in quality, freshness, and knowing how your food was produced.

Tips

• Buying 50 lb bags is significantly cheaper per pound than small bags
• Store feed in sealed metal containers to prevent moisture, mold, and rodent waste
• Free-ranging chickens on pasture can reduce feed consumption by 10-20%