Super Newbie chicken feeding question...

Yes, if they are eating mash, they don't need grit. Grit is necessary to break down things like grass, weeds, black oil sunflower seeds, etc. Do your girls have access to outdoors? If so, then they are finding other things to eat besides the ration you give them, so you may want to provide grit to be sure they can get enough. They don't need supplemental calcium until they start laying. Then you can feed Layer and/or provide Oyster Shell free choice in a separate container. Organic feed or not is by your preference. Crumbles or pellets - whatever works out best for you and your girls. No need to add electrolytes or vitamins to their water unless there seems to be a problem.

 

They do NOT need grit if their only feed is commercial pellets or crumbles or mash. However, if they free range, they'll probably get plenty of their own gritty stuff to do the job..... because, whilst they range freely, they are eating things other than commercial feed, trust me!


You only have to provide oyster shell if they are laying.

 

Your chick starter mash is just fine. The medication is fine, too. Helps prevent coccidiosis, an internal parasite.

I usually feed starter until 16 - 18 weeks, then I start mixing in layer feed for a 2 week transition. I prefer pellets, less waste. Have oyster shell free choice once they start laying.

ETA, my runs are dirt and sand, so I don't need grit. They free range several times a week, too. I think you should start the transition to layer a bit faster, and provide oyster shell when you get the first egg.