Anyone Use Flockraiser for Laying Hens?

[Enchanted Sunrise Farms]

i have been feeding Layena to my hens. Then i got ducks and geese and they get Flockraiser. Couple times i've run out of the Layena and used the Flockraiser for the chickens and they seem to like that better. i know it's higher in protein and does not have extra calcium, but if i supplement with the crushed oyster shell, wouldn't that be sufficient?

Just wondering if there could be any problems with feeding them the Flockraiser as their main diet.

 

[ailurophile23]

I use flockraiser for my hens and supplement with crushed oyster shell and high calcium dark leafy greens and broccoli! No problems - they seem to do better on the higher protein (no more feather picking/eating).

 

[1mommahen]

I use it for my flock after 8 weeks of age! With oyster shell on the side! Everybody is healthy and happy!!!

 

[rancher hicks]

I get Flock raiser but only with a coupon. It's to expensive otherwise. Purina feeds are the most expensive here. I mix it with the cheaper stuff. Plus I prefer pellets too cut down on waste.

Rancher

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

The only thing I have read is that developing pullets might benefit from a protein percentage closer to the 17-18% range to prevent reproductive problems. But adult hens- many here on BYC feed high protein and give oyster shell on the side.

Some I have read feel that it is unnecessary stress on the kidneys to give higher protein than the usual 16%.

I really don't know the answer, but if you are giving treats/scratch/greens or free ranging, then you are lowering the protein content anyhow. So it would be a moot point.

Bottom line is, I would feel comfortable with it in your situation (but this is just my opinion).

 

[bairo]

I usually mix it with layer 50/50..but increase the ratio to 75/25 during the winter. If you keep roos separate then they do great on 100% flock raiser

 

[gritsar]

I use a flockraiser type feed milled at a local feed mill. It's called Allway Kernels. I feed it to all my birds, from young chicks to old hens. Supplement with oyster shell for the laying hens.

 

[Enchanted Sunrise Farms]

Thanks, i thought it would be okay, just needed some first-hand experience.

i have all adult hens, some have quit laying due to age, and no roos. When i give them the Layena crumbles, it seems to get all kicked out onto the floor of their coop. i hate the waste. They seem to actually eat the Flockraiser. i also give them leafy greens, hard boiled eggs, and other veggies several times a week. Had been giving them shelled BOSS, but it's so expensive i've stopped that. It will be easier just buying the Flockraiser for everyone.

 

[smarsh]

Quote:
i do this also

 

[gritsar]

Quote:
The only chickens I don't give flockraiser to is chicks being raised in a brooder. If the broody hen is raising them they get the flockraiser from day one. In the brooder I use medicated chick starter for the first eight weeks and then switch over to the flockraiser.

I remember reading, though I can't remember where (probably in Storey's Guide to Chickens) that broody raised chicks gain a natural immunity to coccidiosis by being exposed to the adult birds droppings in the coop. Brooder raised chicks don't get that benefit, so they need the medicated.