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Question about scratch?

Discussion in 'Feeding & Watering Your Flock' started by vjbakke, Apr 22, 2011.

Most Liked Posts
  1. Apr 22, 2011 #1
    vjbakke

    vjbakke Chillin' With My Peeps

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    If chickens are fed a complete feed do they need scratch? Or do they just need it for a treat sometimes?
     
  3. Apr 22, 2011 #2
    jenni22776rn

    jenni22776rn Chillin' With My Peeps

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    I was told on here that it is ok as a treat but really should not be given in large amounts...it is like candy for them and not good for nutrional value....my ladies love it and I used it for my teenagers to coax them into their coop...but otherwise just as a treat for them [​IMG]
     
    Last edited: Apr 22, 2011
  5. Apr 22, 2011 #3
    Imp

    Imp All things share the same breath- Chief Seattle

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    Quote:They don't need scratch, it is a treat.

    Imp
     
  7. Apr 22, 2011 #4
    ranchhand

    ranchhand Rest in Peace 1956-2011

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    Just a treat sometimes. I only use scratch when I want to bribe them to a new pen or something along those lines.

    A general guideline is that no more than 10% of the diet should be treats. Some folks in hot, humid climates only feed scratch in the cold months, since it helps the birds keep warm.
     
  9. Apr 22, 2011 #5
    Imp

    Imp All things share the same breath- Chief Seattle

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    Quote:[​IMG] Yup works as a bribe too.

    I toss mine in the mossy areas of the lawn, they "scratch" it up.

    Imp- wait, I'm in Seattle, the entire yard is a mossy area. They better get busy.
     
  11. Apr 22, 2011 #6
    birdmomma

    birdmomma Out Of The Brooder

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    So I bought a big bag of scratch and then discovered it's a treat - how long will it keep?
     
  13. Apr 22, 2011 #7
    Judy

    Judy Moderator Staff Member

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    Varies by how it's stored and how fresh it is. Try to choose a cool dry place and keep it well sealed, as in a garbage can. I've had them last quite a while. Just give it a sniff now and then for an "off" smell.
     

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