If chickens are fed a complete feed do they need scratch? Or do they just need it for a treat sometimes?
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
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.
Quote: 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.
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.
