Turkey feed for chicks?

[cluckcluck42]

Just curious, I am almost out of chick starter and we have a bag of duck food (18%) and turkey food. Neither are medicated. Would it be okay to feed either of these to the chicks?? I'll probably go get some more chick feed tonight, just curious.

 

[Judy]

I'm sure either would be fine for a day or two.

 

[cluckcluck42]

Thanks

Is there any reason not to use it for chicks 24/7? Or is chick starter specially formulated for chicks? Just wondering if there is a difference.

 

[superchemicalgirl]

I actually start my chicks on the Non-Medicated turkey grower which is 22% crumbles. When they're older (about 8 weeks) they go to the turkey pellets which is 20% for the rest of their lives. I feed oyster shell on the side for their calcium needs. I have heavier birds (and some lighter ones) and I don't feel the low protein (16%) in the layer is sufficient. I also think the higher protein is better for the chicks and hens. I feel my chicks and hens look great due to the protein and are healthier.

 

[Mrs. Fluffy Puffy]

Alot of people raise their chicks on Gamebird Crumbles.

 

[Lollipop]

Some turkey and gamebird feeds are really high in protein, as much as 30%. You can feed it to chicks for a while, but after about 2 months the protein should not be over 20% due to the rapid growth causing bone and joint problems. Be carefull about those high protein feeds. Personally, I limit my feed protein to 14-16%. I`m much more interrested in good solid bone health than rapid growth. Oriental birds, such as mine, were developed on a low protien diet, such as rice. If they grow to fast, they experience the same malfunctions as broilers. Your breeds may not have those tendancies, but why chance it..........Pop

 

[BlakesFarm]

Theay should be fine, the onley difference is higher protein.

 

[Sir Birdaholic]

I don't even mess with Chick Starter, I use Turkey & Gamebird Starter, Grower, & Layer Crumbles for all of my birds with a little scratch for variety.