An egg laying poultry is called layer whereas broilers are reared for obtaining meat. So a layer should be able to produce more number of large sized eggs, without growing too much. On the other hand, a broiler should yield more meat and hence should be able to grow well.

Management practices are different for broilers and layers. These include maintenance of temperature and hygienic conditions in housing and poultry feed, as well as prevention and control of diseases and pests.

Broilers are fed with vitamin-rich supplementary feed for good growth rate and better feed efficiency. The ration for broilers is protein rich with adequate fat. Care is taken to avoid mortality and to maintain feathering and carcass quality.

The layers have 2 distinct phases in their life i.e. the growing period and laying period. During the growing period, they need enough space. Over-crowding tends to suppress their growth. Feed is given in a restricted and calculated (sufficient amount) manner. During the laying period, the layers need enough space and adequate lighting. Feed with vitamins, minerals and micronutrients influence the hatching of eggs. Layers are provided with fibrous cheaper diets using agricultural by-products.