Altering feed

[DeanneG]

A general rule of thumb is that 'treats' should make up no more that 10 % of the diet. It's a case of 'less is best'.

OOOOOW really? than I am giving them too much .. I've been giving them a plate in morning and also afternoon..eeek! I better slow right down. THANKS

 

[DeanneG]

I used to feed layer but after reading a bunch on feed & opinions, have switched to Flock Raiser (20%) with Oyster Shells in a separate dish. Never had an issue with laying nor quality of eggs & shells, in fact the shells are strong.

I also learned too much treats does nullify the nutrition in their feed. My girls weren't gaining weight, worms rulled out cut back on fruits & veggies. Now they're gaining and feel better ... I've got BO with all their feathers they didn't look under nourished

Will have to check out Flock raiser.. Thanks

 

[ChickNanny13]

It's a Purina brand .... Nutrena & other manufacturers should have something that you can feed all ages/sex. Have read that chicks & males should not be fed/eat layer due to the extra calcium in the feed (possible liver/kidney issues)

 

[ChickenCanoe]

thanks for that.. animal protein? as in meat, eggs fish,eggs and dairy products ?

Exactly, as well as insects and bugs like mealworms and crickets.
There's nothing like giving your chickens the remains of a Thanksgiving turkey carcass for your birds to pick clean. They'll love it.
Left to their own devices in the wild, they'll seek out all the animal sources of protein they can find. They don't just eat grass when foraging.

 

[DeanneG]

It's a Purina brand .... Nutrena & other manufacturers should have something that you can feed all ages/sex. Have read that chicks & males should not be fed/eat layer due to the extra calcium in the feed (possible liver/kidney issues)

I see I have a lot to learn

 

[DeanneG]

Exactly, as well as insects and bugs like mealworms and crickets.
There's nothing like giving your chickens the remains of a Thanksgiving turkey carcass for your birds to pick clean. They'll love it.

I met a guy the other week who sells bags of worms in castings and slater bugs.. must go see him I think.. thanks

 

[ChickenCanoe]

The 10% rule is a rule of thumb. It is a starting point. However if your treats are balanced with vegetative and animal sources, you may be OK.
For those not extremely astute in nutrition, it may be best to stick with age appropriate feed.