Is this correct or a problem with Layena?

[fpscabs]

The guy at the feed store told me to start using Layena crumble. Our girls are 6 weeks for four of them and 7 weeks for the other. I asked him about using the 'red' bag of start and grow, but he said the only difference between that bag was the it was medicated. Should I stay with chick mash? or use the Layena?

This is our first batch, even though only 5, just don't want to have a problem. They get out of their coop/run and help with the weeds and bugs for an hour or so daily and get some extra greens a few days a week.

 

[silkiechicken]

Stick with the start and grow. Even if it is medicated, it is more of a preventative medication to inhibit the growth of cocci in the gut though thamine blocking. The layer has too much calcium for them at a young age. What to feed birds as they grow is one of the subjects of ask 10 get 30 answers on what to do.

 

[Cetawin]

Foolish person at feed store. They do not need layer food until they start laying they do need the grower.

As silkiechicken stated the layer has too much calcium for them and not enough protein.

 

[onthespot]

I agree, I feed Start N Grow until they lay an egg.

 

[Sequin]

I usually start with one bag of medicated feed, then feed the start and grow until they are coming of laying age, then feed layena the rest of the way. But as others have said, everyone does things a little different according to their own feelings on the matter. But at this young age, layena will not provide your chicks with the correct proportions of what they need at this time.

 

[Marlinchaser]

Quote:
If all else fails read the side of the bag, or go to the purina website, they may sell it, but probably have no clue what it is. I would trust the manufacturer. http://www.purinamills.com/OurProducts.aspx?product=poultry

 

[CoyoteMagic]

I feed one bag of Start & Grow medicated and switch to Sunfresh Flock Raiser. 20% protein. I feed it to everybody. You can feed it to chicks from egg with no problem. I just like to give them that little edge with the medicated.

 

[Duck Keeper]

Here's the description right off of Purina Mills' pamphlet: Once your laying birds (and all adult birds including roosters, ducks, geese, and turkeys) reach 18 weeks of age, they will need Layena SunFresh Recipe to support egg laying. Natural and wholesome like the Start & Grow products, Layena contains high calcium levels to support eggshell formation while maintaining a healthy skeleton. In addition, Layena is fortified with manganese to enhance shell quality. High levels of xanthophyll from marigolds result in rich, yellow yolks, while the enhanced concentration of vitamin E provides for more robust immune protection.

I in no way support this product of endorse it's use, your money is your money, your choice is your choice, this is just the exact description in their promotional pamphlet that I have generously copied for your use.

It goes on to say:
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Benefits
Natural Plant proteins For safe and happy birds (no animal proteins or fats)
Superior nutrition Great appearance and healthy eggs
Essential amino acids Strong healthy birds with lots of eggs
Exclusive level of marigold extract Rich yellow yolks
Key levels of calcium and manganese Strong shells with fewer cracks
Proprietary level of vitamin E Supports a healthy immune system
Certified Natural Your assurance of quality. Nutrition you can trust.

Hey, I'm not a vet nor a scientist, just relaying information, okay?

P.O. Box 66812
St. Louis, MO 63166-6812
(800) 227-8941
www.poultrynutrition.com

 

[fpscabs]

Sorry for being tardy with a thank you to all who posted. I did switch to Start and Grow and will continue until they hit 4+ months.

I did look up via the Purina site and found the answer (of course after I posted), but really appreciate all the input. Being that this is our first experience with pullets, I just want to do what is best.

I have one feeder with the Start n Grow and one with Starter mash (Kruse).

Girls are getting big and combs coming in at 3months.