Feeding layer crumbles too early?

[Beka123]

I really didn't know that there was a differnce in chicken feed, I've had chickens for about a month and 5 of them are still pullets, I also have one rooster. I've been feeding everyone layer crumbles this whole time, and now I've been reading on this forum that it could cause problems with future laying if they are not laying yet but fed layer crumbles. Why is this and have I done damage to my girls? They are silkies, ~5 months old. Everyone lives together and I also have 3 barred rock hens who just started laying, so how could I possibly separate their feed? Also, I have 6 silkie chicks and 10 RSL male chicks (for meat) that I was also feeding the layer crumbles for approx 2-3 weeks before I realized it but since then I bought them chick food, but did I do any damage to my chicks too with the layer feed?

 

[Christie Rhae]

My understanding is that the layer feed has more calcium because layers deplete their supply of calcium when they lay eggs. Birds that are not laying don't really have any way to get rid of that extra calcium. I think too much calcium can cause problems.
I have birds of all ages including roosters so I have started feeding all of them an "all purpose" blend of feed. I then have a dish if oyster shell in the layer pens for the girls that need more. They will eat it when they need it. I didn't want the roosters eating the layer feed with the extra calcium.
I did not know what to ask for at first when I went to the feed store so I said "I need food I can feed to roosters and chicks over 6 weeks". If you say you have layers they will try to make you buy the layer feed. lol
Hope that helps!

 

[Beka123]

Ok, I will get that thank you!