Feeding help

[JayWhit]

I've got 7 ISA browns about 4-5 weeks old. Just in the past day or so seems like they've started eating more. They do waste a little scratching at it. I usually feed them in the morning and by 3-4 they're out. Should I feed them just a little more or fill it back up? They're in a homemade pen right now. And at what age do u start feeding chickens layer crumbles? Still a newbie.

 

[fried green eggs]

Welcome and congrats on new little chicks

Yes they waste some but, I keep starter/grower feed in with chicks at all times so, they never run out. Production breeds can start laying early so, they will need the layer feed started around week 18 and when they start laying add Oyster for added calcium.

 

[macdoogle2]

I give my chicks as much as they want. If the bowl is empty I fil it back up. I feel medicated mash for 8 weeks or so. I usually put them outside at 5 to 6 weeks given that the weather here is mild. I give the medicated mash for a couple of weeks once outside to give them a chance to build up immunity to cocci found in the dirt.

 

[Elissa]

What do you feed after 8 weeks, but before laying? Mine are almost 8 weeks and I have been feeding medicated chick crumble. I'm wondering what to get next...

 

[feathers_3]

When I put mine on the ground at about 2 months old, I feed them Purina Scratch Grains. Then I start them on Purina Layer Pellets and Oyster shells at about 4 months old.

Hope this helps!! Good Luck

 

[JayWhit]

So am I bad for buying my feed from our local rural king? I've been using the chic starter. The only other thing I saw was layer crumbles. I'm guessing that is what people use at around 18-20weeks? Sorry.... Still learning. But enjoy my chickens!!

 

[ignatz]

They'd be a lot happier if you fed them all they wanted and it will show in how well and often they produce eggs later in their lives too.

As for when and what to feed, read the instructions on the feed bags. They're usually good enough for any breed to go by. They'll usually have ages to switch to and what feeds to switch them to at that age, etc.