Chick starter vs. grower?

[howdyitsmia]

I'm trying to figure out what feed to buy for 400 chicks, and the chick grower costs a lot more than the starter. Before I make any decisions, what is the importance in switching chicks to a grower? I know that a grower has less protein, but what effects does 20% instead of 18% protein have on a chick? Do I need to switch to grower feed? Or would my chicks be fine on a starter until they begin to lay?

 

[nuthatched]

I believe that chicks need the vitamins and minerals in the chick starter feed

 

[Kiki]

What brand name is the feed your looking at?

 

[Kiki]

I'm trying to figure out what feed to buy for 400 chicks, and the chick grower costs a lot more than the starter. Before I make any decisions, what is the importance in switching chicks to a grower? I know that a grower has less protein, but what effects does 20% instead of 18% protein have on a chick? Do I need to switch to grower feed? Or would my chicks be fine on a starter until they begin to lay?

They will be fine on the starter feed up until a few weeks before they lay.

 

[rosemarythyme]

The birds can stay on starter if you prefer, rather than going from starter to grower. Or conversely you can start on an all flock/flock raiser type feed, and they can stay on that. Don't worry too much about what the feed is named, what matter is the nutrition panel. Chicks should get somewhere between 18-20%ish protein, mine start off at around 19% (I feed both starter and an all flock).

 

[howdyitsmia]

They will be fine on the starter feed up until a few weeks before they lay.

Great, thank you!

 

[howdyitsmia]

The birds can stay on starter if you prefer, rather than going from starter to grower. Or conversely you can start on an all flock/flock raiser type feed, and they can stay on that. Don't worry too much about what the feed is named, what matter is the nutrition panel. Chicks should get somewhere between 18-20%ish protein, mine start off at around 19% (I feed both starter and an all flock).

Good to know, thanks!

 

[howdyitsmia]

I’ve just found out that the feed I’ve been using has 22% protein, so I’m definitely going to switch to a grower. I’d rather not risk the kidney problems. Now to find a place that sells bulk grower feed.

 

[ackie]

I've seen 22% in a 'super lay' feed, but I didn't look at any of the other stats.

My understanding is you can technically feed chick starter forever, it's just that the smaller physical pieces are more easily wasted.

Even once they're laying, if you offer free choice oyster shells on the side.

 

[aart]

400 chicks,

That's a LOT of chickens!!