⠀ Feeding my rooster

[DixieLW]

Hi! I'm new to chicken raising and need some advice. I read somewhere on these forums that it is not good to feed layer feed to a rooster. I have 8 hens and 1 rooster, and have been feeding them all the same thing. They are now on their 2nd bag of layer crumbles. I don't want to cause harm to my roo, but how do I feed him separately? They free range almost everyday, but they also have the layer feed in their coop for anytime access, as well as treats (mostly veggies). Advice? Thanks!

 

[youngchooklover]

Hi! I'm new to chicken raising and need some advice. I read somewhere on these forums that it is not good to feed layer feed to a rooster. I have 8 hens and 1 rooster, and have been feeding them all the same thing. They are now on their 2nd bag of layer crumbles. I don't want to cause harm to my roo, but how do I feed him separately? They free range almost everyday, but they also have the layer feed in their coop for anytime access, as well as treats (mostly veggies). Advice? Thanks!

I have never heard that before I give my roos layers feed and I had chickens for 3 years.
It should be fine.

 

[Toddrick]

I have never heard that before I give my roos lays feed and I have chickens for 3 years.
It should be fine.

I use a lot of layers feed too. But switching to Flock Raiser feed with oyster shell on the side is a better idea. Not sure if the extra calcium is that much of a problem when the birds can free range, but it's easy enough to buy Flock Raiser instead.

 

[DrPatrickBiggs]

Recent research has shown that feeding a layer feed containing higher levels of calcium to roosters over a long time may increase the incidence of health problems in those roosters. Unlike hens who process the calcium into the egg shell, roosters absorb high levels of calcium and then have to eliminate this from their body. This process over a long time may lead to health problems. The best solution is to keep the rooster separate from the hens and feed a starter or grower diet such as Purina Flock Raiser or Purina Start & Grow. Another solution that was mentioned is to feed Purina Flock Raiser and provide supplemental Oyster Shell. This isn't quite as good as feeding a complete and balanced layer feed to your hens, but it is a suitable alternative. Patrick Biggs, Nutritionist, Purina Animal Nutrition