Supplements

[kdpdolphin]

We have a variety of breeds and ages in our flock. Laying/breeding buff orpingtons and OEGBs, and chicks of random ages/breeds. We established the buffs last year and have broadened our flock this year. They do not free range. They get layer feed (or medicated chick starter for the babies), scratch grains and/or cracked corn, oyster shell, grit, table scraps, and tap water. Soon we're starting fodder. What else do we need? It seems like a lot of owners vaccinate, add supplements to chick water, worm, etc. So what is necessary, what's optional, what's a waste of time and money??

 

[Pork Pie]

Hello and welcome to BYC - thanks for joining us. Please make yourself at home. Like most things, I think opinions differ as to what is useful or not when it comes to supplements / need for vaccinations etc. I’d suggest using the BYC search function to find threads on topics that may interest you.

This is a useful link of “How to” BYC guides to take a look at announcements-feedback-issues-guides.3. I’d suggest including your location using the guide in the link. You can use this link to contact members in your area - Find your State's thread.

Best wishes

Pork Pie

 

[N F C]

I agree with Pork Pie, you'll find a lot of opinions on the topics you asked about. To me, you just have to figure out what makes sense to you and what works best for you.

Make yourself at home here, thanks for joining us!

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

Welcome to our FUN-omenal community! Best wishes and have lots of FUN!

 

[BYCforlife]

Welcome to BackYard Chickens! Thanks for joining!

I feed my day olds chick starter and water, and maybe a couple of tiny treats after they're a week old. They really don't need many supplements unless they get sick. I have most of my chickens vaccinated, but only because I don't like to mix vaccinated and un-vaccinated chickens, and some of my best layers are vaccinated. As long as you're careful about who goes into your chicken coop, I don't think vaccinations are necessary. That's just my opinion of course, you always need to do what you think is best, unless it's a really bad idea.

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.

 

[ClucksAndCombs]

Welcome to BYC!

Feel free to ask questions, there are so many wonderful and knowledgeable people who will answer them

Good luck with your flock!

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC.

 

[fldiver97]

Welcome

 

[007Sean]

Howdy and Welcome to Backyard Chickens.

Happy to have you here with us. Enjoy your time here at BYC!

Thanks for joining our community!