supplimenting protein?

[Moselle]

I'm on my 3rd bag of chick starter - I returned the first two (don't ask - got the wrong stuff). I'm so sick of buying and returning chick feed.

So, my only complaint with this chick starter is that the tag says it has only 16% protein content. Isn't it supposed to be closer to 20% for the first few weeks?

So, for 7 two-week-old chicks:
1. Should I suppliment their protein?
2. With what?
3. How much per day?

Please keep your comments regarding my complete incompetency in a feed store to a minimum.

 

[kstaven]

All I have ever used is 16%. If you want to boost it, use sunflower meal.

 

[CUDA]

If you want to add protein to your feed, you might want to try feeding them some soaked cat food if this is for chicks. For adult birds you don't need to soak it. Cat food has the best type of protein for fowl in my experience. But, I agree with kstaven, 16% is plenty for standard breed chicks. If you are interested in mixing your own feed, and need to know the protein content, and fat content, check out my website where I have a feed calculating program. Good luck!

 

[MissPrissy]

Game bird feed is higher in protein. I agree with the limited use of cat food. The 16% chick starter is perfect for your chicks.

 

[Luke74]

http://www.afn.org/~poultry/flkman9.htm

Spefically table 2 just an FYI.

 

[fivebigreds]

If you have extra eggs you can boil them some they will mob you for an egg and it will supply some needed animal protien.

 

[Moselle]

Thanks everyone! I'll stop fussing over it. CUDA, looks like you've got a nice set-up there. I love your feed calculator.