Proper Protein amount in layer feed?

[Rick&Chris]

I have chickens that are 6 months old - I have 10 girls and am getting 5-6 eggs per day. My husband accidentally bought 20% protein layer feed. Is this too high? I think we were giving them 18% before.

 

[imnukensc]

It's fine.

 

[rosemarythyme]

It's probably a little higher than needed but it should be fine.

 

[ChickNanny13]

I don't feed layer anymore ... Start off with medicated chick starter than switch to Flock Raiser (20%) adding a separate dish of Oyster Shells when they start laying. Never had an issue with shells nor eggs. It was discussed, and makes sense to me, hens laying need the protein cause the energy/work it takes to lay an egg, which is protein.

 

[Molliep2]

I don't feed layer anymore ... Start off with medicated chick starter than switch to Flock Raiser (20%) adding a separate dish of Oyster Shells when they start laying. Never had an issue with shells nor eggs. It was discussed, and makes sense to me, hens laying need the protein cause the energy/work it takes to lay an egg, which is protein.

Hi, is flock raiser a good option for laying hens better than layer feed? I am thinking of switching my feeds and am unsure of which one to choose. Thanks!

 

[DobieLover]

Hi, is flock raiser a good option for laying hens better than layer feed? I am thinking of switching my feeds and am unsure of which one to choose. Thanks!

I would highly recommend using a Flock Raiser type feed with 18 to 20% protein with oyster shell or other calcium source as well as grit offered in separate containers.

This way the pullets/hens that are actively laying can use the calcium when they need it. Young pullets not yet laying, moulting pullets/hens and cockerels/roosters do not need all that extra calcium that is in layer mixes.

They will always need the extra protein either to make eggs, make feathers or make warm chickens in the cold winters during egg laying breaks.

 

[Molliep2]

I would highly recommend using a Flock Raiser type feed with 18 to 20% protein with oyster shell or other calcium source as well as grit offered in separate containers.

This way the pullets/hens that are actively laying can use the calcium when they need it. Young pullets not yet laying, moulting pullets/hens and cockerels/roosters do not need all that extra calcium that is in layer mixes.

They will always need the extra protein either to make eggs, make feathers or make warm chickens in the cold winters during egg laying breaks.

Hi,
Thank you for your info! I only have three hens who are of laying age, is that okay?

 

[DobieLover]

Hi,
Thank you for your info! I only have three hens who are of laying age, is that okay?

Yes. Feed them Flock Raiser for the rest of their lives. Offer oyster shell or dried crushed egg shell in one container and grit in another and you are all set.

 

[ChickNanny13]

I only have 4BOs, a year old next month. 50# bag last me about 2months (fermented). Due to our weather here and our feed being shipped from the Mainland, it at least a month aged although due to ocean conditions, sometimes older
I've had issues with feed mites, so started freezing the feed in 2lbs freezer ziplock bags, defrosting a bag over night when needed. Wish we could get it in 25# bags ...

 

[Leigti]

I have also decided not to feed layer food. I feed grower food to all my chickens no matter their ages. For baby chicks I buy a 5 pound bag of chick feed when it is gone they also get grower. Are use the medicated chick feed. Not sure if that is even necessary. Just have oyster shell on the side for when they need it.