Non-layer feed for laying hens?

[zekii]

I want to try and use non-layer feed for my flock, and offer calcium free choice.
Can anyone here that does similar comment on this.
What is a good feed to use for the general maintenance of the flock...
Purina flock raiser ?
Will the hens supplement themselves with the calcium as they require it, if I offer
Calcium free choice?

I will also note that my flock free ranges daily.

 

[zbraswell92]

You could feed 50% scratch (Cracked Corn, BOSS, Wheat, Barley, Millet...) and 50% Purina Flock Raiser or Nutrena All-Flock.
I fed this for a while to my laying hens b/c I had a lil cockerel and a few large non-laying pullets in with them... they'll do fine on this. Just make sure to never let the Oyster Shell run out. You'll also need to add crushed Granite/Marble for grit so they can grind up the grains in their gizzards. (Oyster Shell DOSE *NOT* substitute as grit. Oyster Shell would be like us humans chewing with chalk teeth. LOL)
You can also offer spaghetti noodles and plain yogurt every once in a while. (Yogurt will act as an animal-protein source in diet.) These foods are very rich in Ca and Phosphorus. You could also add a vit/min supplement to their water, if you want. .
I like to add BOSS because they have high protein and are a good Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids.
(You might want to add some Soybean meal for extra protein too. But not necessary)
My chickens go CRAZY for spaghetti noodles and BOSS.

Hope this helps...

 

[Chris09]

Just feed then a good Starter/Grower and offer oyster shells on the side.

Chris