Protein % and leg shakes

[kristen2678]

I posted in the geese section but I thought I would check here too. I have a couple feed questions. I have 13, 4 week old Runners along with a pair of dewlap toulouse. They are on a 20% chick starter/grower formulated for ducks, geese, chicks, & game birds. I am having a hard time finding something other than chicken food that is 16%. Short of formulating it myself, can I use an 18% flock raiser and add some oats to lower the protein?

They are free ranging now and have access to a pond. They've checked it out but so far haven't done more than take a quick dip.

They started with the shaky legs and weakness a few days ago. I've been sprinkling niacin on their food and added a vitamin mix to their water containing niacin. Today they looked stronger but not totally better. How long until I see a recovery in strength and quivering legs?

Thanks.

 

[Amiga]

Storey's Guide recommends (if I recall) that if there are signs of niacin deficiency, to continue the extra niacin supplements for about ten weeks.

Glad to read there may be some improvement!

I would add rolled oats (not instant) to lower protein percentage, and supplement with multi vitamins, electrolytes and probiotics weekly.

 

[kristen2678]

Thanks. It does say 10 weeks. I've been giving them whole oats (I grabed the wrong bag) but they love them.