OK for chicks to eat laying mash?

[henheaven]

I've got some 7 week old chicks that I'd like to put in with the rest of the flock, but someone just told me that the laying mash for the older hens can make the chicks sick (too much calcium?)

Is that true? If so, can I feed the hens what the chicks are getting (start-and-grow)?

I've put the chicks in for visits, and everybody gets along fine.

Thanks,
Alysson

 

[speckledhen]

It would be much better for the hens to eat the Start n Grow than for the chicks to eat the layer mash. Just be sure you have a feeder with oyster shell for the hens if you do so they get the calcium they need. Yes, the calcium can cause bone problems, etc, for the young chicks.

 

[justusnak]

I agree with Cynthia...the hens will do good on the grower/starter, and the chicks will be alot better off. I would switch.

 

[henheaven]

Thanks for the advice.

I've already moved the chicks in with the hens and rooster, and put a big dish of start and grow out.

And my husband gets his gardening tool shed back!

Thanks again,
Alysson