Is 18% starter ok for cornish x?

[Mike32]

I am expecting my Cornish x tomorrow and I bought the starter for them. I was told the starter was 22% but its actually 18. I should have checked the bag but oh well. My question or concern is will that be alright for them? Will it cause a slower growth rate at all or cause any loss to the chicks? Sorry I'm sure this topic has already been posted somewhere. Thanks

 

[CARS]

In the past few years, I brooded my Cornish X's with my Laying pullet chicks for a few weeks and they shared Chick Starter (20%). I had no growth issues that I can remember.

This year, with the advice I have gathered here on BYC, I started them on Broiler feed (24%) from day one. I am experiencing ALOT of losses. Is it because of the feed??? I don't know.

 

[jaku]

Quote:
I can't imagine it would be- there's no reason it should be hurting them. Could be anything- even a bad batch from the hatchery.

 

[CARS]

Quote:
I can't imagine it would be- there's no reason it should be hurting them. Could be anything- even a bad batch from the hatchery.

Ya, I doubt the feed is the problem either. Hoover Hatchery stated in their catalog this year that they changed the line they are carrying. I have another 30 coming on Monday (April 5th) so we will see if it is the new stock or maybe I started too early this year (cold).

For the record, I looked at my Broiler feed (store bought) and it is only 21%

So I think 20% chick starter is diffidently safe.