Can I switch to layer feed?

[e72071]

We have 3 polish and 2 Cochins all 5 months old. The rest of our flock are 8+ months and laying. Since the polish and Cochin breeds reaching laying age much older, can I switch everyone over to layer feed now or is it still too dangerous for the younger ones? Right now I have everyone on grower feed with grit and oyster shells out as free choice.

 

[lazy gardener]

I would not be at all concerned about putting those youngsters on layer at that age. Other folks feel differently and would put the flock on Multi-Flock with calcium offered free choice. IMO, no right or wrong here.

 

[elaineinspain]

I kept my cochins and orpingtons on fermented grower with free choice crushed eggs shells till they were about 12 months and started laying. When they hatch babies, because my small flock is free range, I put them all onto fermented chick feed with free choice crushed egg shells.

 

[chickens really]

Keep on feeding as you have been.....Too early for the younger ones till they start laying....I only feed the grower with oyster shell on the side.....

 

[Patinas]

Keep on feeding as you have been.....Too early for the younger ones till they start laying....I only feed the grower with oyster shell on the side.....

I agree, just make sure they have free choice oyster shell and grit on the side at all times. They will eat the oyster shell when they decide they need it. I have come to the conclusion that in my situation, forcing calcium via layer feed is not a good option for my flock even though they are all now laying at 6 months of age.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

I would not be at all concerned about putting those youngsters on layer at that age. Other folks feel differently and would put the flock on Multi-Flock with calcium offered free choice. IMO, no right or wrong here.

X2

 

[SRC87]

I have a mixed flock... oldest cuckoo maran is 20 weeks and close to laying with the youngest being a 16 week silkie... I started mixing layer feed with grower and put oyster on the side. Should I not have mixed the two feeds?! I just know my 3 older pullets will lay soon and want to be sure they have what the need while the younger 2 get theirs as well! Now I'm worried I shouldn't have mixed their feed

 

[Akrnaf2]

We have 3 polish and 2 Cochins all 5 months old. The rest of our flock are 8+ months and laying. Since the polish and Cochin breeds reaching laying age much older, can I switch everyone over to layer feed now or is it still too dangerous for the younger ones? Right now I have everyone on grower feed with grit and oyster shells out as free choice.

Yes no problem.