New Ameraucana Chicks...How long should they be on medicated starter?

[Alagrace]

I just got these Ameraucana chicks and I'm wondering how long they should be on the medicated starter. How long do you all keep your chicks on it before going non-medicated. Thanks.

 

[QueenMisha]

The recommended time period is 0 days - 8 weeks.

 

[Alagrace]

Thank you! I bought another single Ameraucana that is about 10 weeks also, so I was curious if she should be on it too, but I think I'll put her on the grower feed that I have.

 

[CluckinOnTheYakus]

Look at them sweet babies <3 gah they are just so cute!! I love how they even have fluffy little cheeks at that age! I'm super jelly, I should be getting some more Ameraucana's in a week or two!!

 

[southernhusky]

Has anyone ever noticed problems with starting on medicated feed? The protein difference I read on bag was 16% in the medicated and 24% on the dumor starter.. And I think 20% on the starter/grower. Will it matter much that the protein is a good bit lower on medicated? I know that is about the difference in puppy food vs adult dog food. Pups wouldnt die due to lack of protein but it certainly does help them thrive I feel.

Could I feed extra scrambled eggs to chicks if I feel they need the extra protein? I know ppl will feed that to adults.

 

[QueenMisha]

Has anyone ever noticed problems with starting on medicated feed? The protein difference I read on bag was 16% in the medicated and 24% on the dumor starter.. And I think 20% on the starter/grower. Will it matter much that the protein is a good bit lower on medicated? I know that is about the difference in puppy food vs adult dog food. Pups wouldnt die due to lack of protein but it certainly does help them thrive I feel.

Could I feed extra scrambled eggs to chicks if I feel they need the extra protein? I know ppl will feed that to adults.

If a feed brand is offering a medicated starter at only 16%, then you need to switch feed brands ASAP. That's far too low, and they have no idea what they are doing. Protein should go down over time - 20% to 18% to 16% for ADULTS. Starters should be, at a bare minimum, 18% protein. 20% is preferable and I personally use 22% with great results. 16% is layer level feed, and will result in slow growing, runty chicks. My first thought was that perhaps you were actually looking at a layer feed, except those should NEVER be medicated, as they will make the eggs inedible.

 

[southernhusky]

I will double check that as I already threw out my bag when I go tomorrow but I *think* it said 16%.