7 Best Animal Feeders for Backyard Livestock That Reduce Waste

Keeping your backyard livestock properly fed is essential for their health and productivity, but finding the right feeder can be challenging with so many options available. The ideal animal feeder should minimize waste, withstand outdoor conditions, and make your daily chores more efficient while keeping your animals well-nourished. In this guide, we’ll explore the seven best animal feeders for backyard livestock that combine durability, smart design, and value to help you make the perfect choice for your farm animals.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

1. Automatic Gravity Feeders for Chickens and Poultry

Automatic gravity feeders represent one of the most efficient solutions for keeping your backyard poultry well-fed with minimal daily intervention. These practical devices use gravity to continuously dispense feed as chickens consume it, ensuring your flock has consistent access to nutrition.

Key Features to Look for in Gravity Feeders

When selecting a gravity feeder, prioritize weather-resistant materials like galvanized steel or UV-stabilized plastic that won’t deteriorate outdoors. Look for feeders with adjustable flow control to prevent wastage and rain covers to keep feed dry. Anti-roosting tops discourage birds from sitting on feeders, reducing contamination. Choose models with rounded corners for easy cleaning to prevent mold growth.

Top Gravity Feeder Recommendations

The Harris Farms 1000290 Grand Feeder stands out with its 25lb capacity and weather-protective design, perfect for flocks of 15-25 birds. For smaller setups, the RentACoop Treadle Feeder offers rat-proof protection and reduces wastage by 15%. The Grandpa’s Feeders Automatic Chicken Feeder, while pricier at $200+, pays for itself within months through its exceptional feed conservation and predator-proof design that many farmers report saves $15-20 monthly in feed costs.

2. Wall-Mounted Hay Feeders for Goats and Sheep

Wall-mounted hay feeders are essential tools for small livestock owners looking to maximize feeding efficiency while maintaining animal health. These specialized feeders keep hay accessible while minimizing waste and contamination.

Benefits of Elevated Hay Feeders

Elevated hay feeders significantly reduce waste by keeping hay off the ground where it can be soiled or trampled. They promote better animal health by allowing goats and sheep to eat in a natural head position, preventing respiratory issues. These feeders also enhance feeding efficiency by minimizing competition among animals, ensuring each one receives proper nutrition.

Best Wall-Mounted Options for Small Ruminants

The Heavy Duty Red Trough Feeder ($339.99) features a v-bottom design and overhead guard that prevents animals from standing in their food. Century Livestock Feeders offers durable polyethylene models with stainless steel hardware that withstand harsh weather conditions. For a perfect fit to your specific needs, consider custom or DIY wall-mounted feeders that can be tailored to your barn setup and herd size.

3. Creep Feeders for Growing Calves and Kids

How Creep Feeders Support Young Livestock

Creep feeders are specialized feeding systems designed to provide supplemental nutrition exclusively to young animals. They feature strategically sized openings that allow calves and kids access while keeping larger animals out. These feeders ensure proper growth during critical developmental stages by delivering concentrated nutrients without competition from adults. Creep feeding enhances weight gain, improves overall health, and reduces stress during weaning transitions—ultimately resulting in stronger, more productive livestock.

Premium Creep Feeder Options for Small Farms

The Heavy Duty Red Goat Trough Feeder offers excellent durability with its v-bottom design that prevents standing and minimizes waste. For maximum versatility, consider Poly Gate Feeders that attach directly to fences and corrals. Weather-resistant models with adjustable barriers accommodate growing animals throughout different developmental stages. Portable options allow strategic placement around your property, ideal for rotational grazing systems. When selecting, prioritize feeders with easy cleaning access and sturdy construction that can withstand active young livestock.

4. Automated Feed Dispensers with Timers

Automated feed dispensers with timers represent the pinnacle of efficiency for livestock management, combining convenience with precision to ensure your animals are fed consistently even when you’re away.

Time-Saving Benefits for Busy Homesteaders

Automated feeders transform your daily routine by eliminating manual feeding chores. You’ll save approximately 30-45 minutes daily with scheduled feeding times that maintain consistent nutrition without your presence. These systems reduce feed waste by up to 25% through controlled portions while supporting animal health through regular feeding patterns. For homesteaders juggling multiple responsibilities, these feeders provide invaluable peace of mind during travel or busy seasons.

Top Programmable Feeding Systems

The 600-lb. Corn Feeder with Varmint-Proof Spinner Plate stands out with its programmable digital timer and massive storage capacity. Its steel construction withstands harsh weather while preventing unwanted wildlife access. For smaller operations, Century Livestock Feeders offer exceptional durability with high-quality polyethylene construction and stainless steel hardware, though they lack timer functionality. The 200-lb. High-Capacity Protein Feeder provides reliable performance with its rotomolded plastic design and convenient 40-inch feeding height.

5. Weather-Resistant Feed Troughs for Outdoor Use

Weather-resistant feed troughs are essential investments for backyard livestock owners who need reliable feeding solutions in all conditions. These durable options protect your feed investment while withstanding everything nature throws their way.

Durable Materials That Withstand the Elements

Hot-dipped galvanized steel feeders offer superior rust resistance for outdoor use, lasting up to 15 years even in harsh conditions. High-density polyethylene troughs withstand temperature extremes from -20°F to 120°F without cracking or warping. The Century Livestock Feeders feature stainless steel hardware paired with UV-resistant polyethylene, preventing corrosion and deterioration from constant sun exposure.

Best All-Season Feeding Troughs

The Heavy Duty Red Goat Trough Feeder features a smart v-bottom design with overhead guard, preventing animals from standing in feed and reducing waste by 30%. Rotomolded Plastic Protein Feeders offer 200-pound capacity with 40-inch feeding height, perfect for larger livestock management. The Amish-Built Livestock Feeder provides exceptional craftsmanship using untreated pine that naturally resists moisture while being easily replaceable if damaged after years of service.

6. Pig Feeders with Anti-Waste Features

Preventing Feed Wastage in Swine Production

Pigs are notorious for their messy eating habits, which can lead to significant feed waste and increased costs. Specialized feeders with anti-waste features can reduce waste by up to 30%, protecting your investment. Height-adjustable options allow you to position the feeding area at the optimal level as your pigs grow. Look for models with barriers, sloping sides, or narrow troughs that prevent pigs from rooting through and tossing feed onto the ground.

Top Pig Feeder Recommendations

The Tractor Supply Co. trough feeders with dividers offer excellent value for small-scale operations, effectively limiting feed spillage during feeding frenzies. For hands-off management, automatic feeders with programmable dispensing schedules help control portions and reduce overconsumption. Century Livestock’s polyethylene feeders feature stainless steel hardware and reinforced construction that stands up to aggressive pig behavior. Consider feeders with individual stations for multi-pig setups to reduce competition and ensure each animal receives proper nutrition.

7. Multi-Animal Feeding Stations for Diverse Livestock

Space-Efficient Solutions for Mixed Species

Multi-animal feeding stations are game-changers for homesteaders managing diverse livestock in limited space. Trough feeders with dividers allow you to separate different feed types for various animals, preventing dietary mix-ups and reducing competition. Height-adjustable feeders accommodate animals of different sizes simultaneously, from goats to sheep to calves. These smart designs maximize your available space while ensuring each animal receives proper nutrition without cross-contamination or waste.

Versatile Feeding Systems for Small Homesteads

Feeders with multiple compartments offer exceptional versatility for small-scale operations with mixed livestock. These systems allow you to store and dispense different feed types separately, addressing the specific dietary needs of various animals from a single station. Portable options like the Tarter DTSAF DuraTough Animal Feeder can be strategically moved throughout your property, following grazing patterns and optimizing land use. Look for polyethylene or stainless steel construction to ensure your investment withstands both weather elements and daily animal interactions.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Feeder for Your Backyard Livestock Needs

Selecting the right feeder for your backyard livestock is a decision that impacts daily operations feed costs and animal health. Whether you’re managing chickens goats or a diverse menagerie each specialized feeder offers unique advantages tailored to specific needs.

From gravity feeders that provide consistent nutrition to weather-resistant troughs that protect your investment the right equipment can reduce waste by up to 30% while saving you valuable time each day. Remember to prioritize durability easy cleaning and features that accommodate your animals’ natural feeding behaviors.

By investing in quality feeders you’ll create a more efficient sustainable homestead operation. Your animals will enjoy better nutrition you’ll spend less on replacement feed and your daily chores will become significantly more manageable even when you’re away from the farm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of automatic gravity feeders for chickens?

Automatic gravity feeders provide consistent nutrition with minimal daily intervention. They feature weather-resistant materials, adjustable flow control, rain covers, anti-roosting tops, and easy-to-clean designs. Models like the Harris Farms Grand Feeder for larger flocks or the RentACoop Treadle Feeder for smaller setups can significantly reduce the time spent on daily feeding chores while ensuring your chickens have access to fresh feed.

How do wall-mounted hay feeders improve feeding efficiency for goats and sheep?

Wall-mounted hay feeders keep hay off the ground, reducing waste and contamination. They allow animals to eat in a natural head position, which promotes better health and digestion. Options like the Heavy Duty Red Trough Feeder and polyethylene models from Century Livestock Feeders provide durability while maximizing feeding efficiency. These feeders are particularly beneficial for maintaining cleaner feeding areas and preserving hay quality.

What are creep feeders and why are they important for young livestock?

Creep feeders provide supplemental nutrition exclusively to young animals (calves, kids) while preventing access by larger animals. They support proper growth during critical developmental stages, enhance weight gain, improve overall health, and reduce weaning stress. Recommended options include the Heavy Duty Red Goat Trough Feeder and Poly Gate Feeders, designed with easy cleaning access and sturdy construction to withstand active young livestock.

How much time can automated feed dispensers with timers save?

Automated feed dispensers with timers can save busy homesteaders approximately 30-45 minutes daily by eliminating manual feeding chores. They maintain consistent nutrition even when owners are away and reduce feed waste by up to 25% through controlled portions. Popular models include the 600-lb. Corn Feeder with programmable digital timer and the 200-lb. High-Capacity Protein Feeder, both designed for durability and ease of use.

What materials are best for weather-resistant feed troughs?

The best materials for weather-resistant feed troughs are hot-dipped galvanized steel and high-density polyethylene. These materials offer superior rust resistance and can withstand extreme temperatures. The Heavy Duty Red Goat Trough Feeder features smart design to reduce waste, while the Amish-Built Livestock Feeder is known for exceptional craftsmanship and moisture resistance, helping to protect your feed investment against harsh weather conditions.

How much feed waste can specialized pig feeders reduce?

Specialized pig feeders can reduce feed waste by up to 30%. Models like Tractor Supply Co. trough feeders with dividers work well for small operations, while automatic feeders with programmable dispensing schedules offer hands-off management. Century Livestock’s polyethylene feeders provide durability against aggressive pig behavior. Individual feeding stations ensure each pig receives proper nutrition, addressing the naturally messy eating habits of pigs.

What are the advantages of multi-animal feeding stations?

Multi-animal feeding stations allow homesteaders to manage diverse livestock in limited space. They feature trough feeders with dividers to separate different feed types, preventing dietary mix-ups and reducing competition. Height-adjustable feeders accommodate various animal sizes, ensuring proper nutrition without cross-contamination. Portable options like the Tarter DTSAF DuraTough Animal Feeder optimize land use and are typically made from durable materials like polyethylene or stainless steel.