Is layer feed ok while chickens are molting?

[mschickiemama]

I've been feeding scratch and peck layer feed, but maybe I should switch while the hens are molting? Also what do you feed roosters or hens who don't or no longer lay eggs?

 

[17 chickens]

I just keep all my birds on layer pellets, unless they will be going to shows then I will put them on feather fixer to get those pretty feathers and help with loss of feathers. Even when they are not laying I still give layer pellets...

 

[ChickNanny13]

You could stick with layer, no problem however scratch is more a "treat" with hardly any nutritional value in a diet. During molt it helps (replenish feathering) having more protein to their diet. I feed chicks Starter until they're about 6 - 8wks, then switch to Flock Raiser (20%) adding a dish of Oyster Shells when they start laying, or you could start sooner (red combs/wattles & squatting). I also ferment the feed for the benefits & no feed waste.

 

[pasuit]

I just keep all my birds on layer pellets, unless they will be going to shows then I will put them on feather fixer to get those pretty feathers and help with loss of feathers. Even when they are not laying I still give layer pellets...

Good advice

 

[CapricornFarm]

Well you could give added protein treats like sardines or mashed boiled eggs if they are moulting . Even mealworms or cat food.

 

[GC-Raptor]

I've been feeding scratch and peck layer feed, but maybe I should switch while the hens are molting? Also what do you feed roosters or hens who don't or no longer lay eggs?

Higher protein feed 18/20% should help the new feathers to grow out faster than 15/16%.
My hens had a partial molt late summer, but never stopped laying. They got layers feed.
I don't have any roosters, but if I did they would get layers feed.
I will butcher my March/April born sex-links hens around 28 months of age before they have prolapse or a drastic slowdown in laying. So I won't keep non laying hens.
My 5 hens will be 20 months next week and I'm getting 6 less eggs a week on average than 1 year ago.
I like to feed 18/20% protein from day old chicks throughout laying.
I am feeding 18% layers feed presently. GC