Feed confusion help..

[Carrfamchick]

We are giving our chickens traditions poultry feed but I'm unsure if we need to change it after they are 18 weeks?

 

[Carrfamchick]

We are giving our chickens traditions poultry feed but I'm unsure if we need to change it after they are 18 weeks?

 

[Crazy for Chickens!]

It won't hurt them, but you may want to feed them Layer, since it has extra protein for them since they need it for the eggs.

 

[Crazy for Chickens!]

Also, adding oyster shell helps, too.

 

[Melky]

By 18 weeks or first egg should switch over to a 16% protein layer feed brand of your choosing. Usually over a weeks time. Give 1/4 new with 3/4 old, then 1/2 and 1/2, then 3/4 new 1/4 old, and 100% new. Few days of each fine or till old feed gone.

 

[Melky]

Also provide poultry grit and oyster shell free choice.

 

[Crazy for Chickens!]

By 18 weeks or first egg should switch over to a 16% protein layer feed brand of your choosing. Usually over a weeks time. Give 1/4 new with 3/4 old, then 1/2 and 1/2, then 3/4 new 1/4 old, and 100% new. Few days of each fine or till old feed gone.

I've never done this. I just feed them the new feed, and i've never had problems.

 

[wyoDreamer]

Bing search for Southern States Traditions Poultry feed says that it is a complete layer feed with 16% protein.

 

[EggSighted4Life]

What is traditional poultry feed?

Layer usually has LESS protein and more calcium... than starter, grower, flock raiser and so on. Just different words. Main difference is always gonna be protein and calcium levels.

I never switch.. or use layer. It's a personal choice. I just provide oyster shell on the side for the layers to access as they need. I use a 20% protein flock raiser. I also never use grit because my birds are free range and have access to the ground... much different than birds kept in brooders or factories.

The slow switch suggested would be the best way... but keepers do choose most often what is easiest for them. I would always go the slow way for my dogs or other animals... but chickens...

Breed can have an impact on what protein % you choose to feed. Dual purpose and heavy feathered birds such as Orpington or Marans will do best with not less than 18% protein. 16% is the MINIMUM for light bodied layers like leghorn.

Good for you for researching! Welcome to BYC!

 

[ChickNanny13]

Search BYC article sections, Texas Kiki did a chart comparison of a whole bunch of feed. Some change to Layer, others change to Flock Raiser, All Flock, Multi Purpose, etc... adding Oyster Shells in a separate dish for the layers.

Could you take a picture of the ingredient label ... You probably can keep them on that and add a separate dish of Oyster Shells.