What would happen if I fed my 14 week old chicks layer feed?

[newchickenista]

My question is this: What would happen if I fed my 14 week old pullets layer feed instead of starter/grower feed? Is it possible?

 

[SIMZ]

I don't want to give you bad advice, but I've done that and haven't had any problems that I know of. Most things I've read said to switch them at 16-18 weeks.

 

[witchwriter]

i did it not knowing - i think laying feed just provides different vitamins necessary for laying. it doesn't actually cause a hen to lay. kind of like a prenatal vitamin

 

[Den in Penn]

It is the extra calcium in the layer feed that could cause damage to the kidneys. At 14 weeks the damage would be minor, but out of caution most stay away from layer till they are older or laying.

 

[ashleyr]

Layer feed is for chickens who are laying and shouldn't be fed until then.

 

[LindaB220]

i did it not knowing - i think laying feed just provides different vitamins necessary for laying. it doesn't actually cause a hen to lay. kind of like a prenatal vitamin

Glad to have you.

 

[LindaB220]

Layer feed is for chickens who are laying and shouldn't be fed until then.

Sounds like you know a bit about chickens.

 

[ashleyr]

 

[ashleyr]

Quote: Originally Posted by ashleyr link Layer feed is for chickens who are laying and shouldn't be fed until then.

Sounds like you know a bit about chickens.

Lol, guess so.