Feeding menopausal hens :)

[PattyO]

Please excuse me as I have not been here in a very long time so Im sure I missed a thread on this. Three year old hybrids no longer laying. Do I switch to flock raiser from layer? Thanks

 

[Fred's Hens]

Or grower.

 

[Eggcessive]

I see no reason to change. Flock raiser usually costs more. If you have chicks or younger pullets growing, then yes, I would put them on the flock raiser or unmedicated chick feed.

 

[PattyO]

I guess I was thinking of the additional calcium that they maybe dont need as much of now and does the kidney issue come into play again with the older bird as it did with those too young? Thanks

 

[Fred's Hens]

It would matter to me to lessen a non laying bird's calcium intake. All feed has some calcium, just not the double dose that is typically in layer feed.

 

[PattyO]

Ok I will adjust. Cost is not really an issue, only three ladies. What is the difference between grower and flock raiser? Puppy chow vs dog chow?

 

[Fred's Hens]

Grower and Raiser only vary by the protein level, with MOST versions of the products.

 

[PattyO]

Ok higher protein with grower than flock raiser? Which do I choose? Bag is running low. Is it like with geriatric dogs where you may not need as high a protein content but a higher quality more digestible protein. Gotta go tomorrow for more feed. Thanks

 

[Fred's Hens]

Read the labels. Protein content varies greatly between products and between different feed makers. 16% protein is a fine enough amount for general bird health on average.

 

[PattyO]

Exellent!