Medicated Chick Feed

[Defjam]

My 14 New Hampshires are just about 4 weeks old and they are growing at a remarkable rate. I wondered, since I purchased (2) 50# bags of medicated chick starter feed, how long is it advisable to feed them this formula? I'm just about ready to tear into the second bag, but if I should be feeding them another type at this point...I'll take it back and exchange it.

Any advice is appreciated!

Dj

 

[Eggcessive]

I quit using medicated chick starter after my first batch of chicks when I read they had to have medicated. But they do need 18-20 protein starter/grower or flock raiser until the pullets are laying. Medicated won't hurt them, although many choose unmedicated. When the pullets start laying, you can: keep them on 18-20% all flock raiser and put crushed oyster shell or crush egg shells (for calcium) in a separate container since the girls know how much they need or put them on 16% layer feed, but I would still offer a little something on the side for extra calcium.

 

[CGinJCMO]

Were your chicks vacinated for Cocci? If so, you don't want to feed medicated or you'll negate the effects of the vacine. Also, I don't think you want to feed it to them for too long (only for the first month).

Here's an BYC article https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/coccidiosis-how-to-treat-it

CG

 

[Defjam]

No vaccinations...thank you for the suggestions, advice and link.